Keeping young athletes in the game

There are many challenges that can keep middle and high school students from playing school sports, but getting a physical exam shouldn't be one of them.

As part of a network of efforts across the state, the University of Delaware - through its HEALTH for All (H4A) program and its Master of Science in Athletic Training program (ATP) - and Newark Charter School partnered this summer to offer free sports physicals that will allow middle and high school students to be eligible to play school sports in the coming academic year. The initiative also creates a vital connection between the students and the health care system, potentially contributing to their long-term wellbeing.

"These students want to play," said H4A's Heather Milea, family nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology acute care practitioner at UD's Nurse Managed Primary Care Center. "Play is health for students. It's a big part of social engagement. It's cardiovascular health. It's learning how to be a team player and the skills of a game. It's not just going to school; it's the fun part of school."

While the H4A team travels across Delaware year-round, this one-day event was an excellent opportunity for the ATP students to get into the community early in their master's program.