Parents make sure they keep their athletes hydrated
JACKSON, Tenn —As coaches gear up to send their players on the field, parents are gearing up to make sure they are properly hydrated in the heat.
“Just give it 100 percent and make sure you drink water,” Parent Michael Rose said.
Thursday, parents told WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News they they make sure drinking water is an
all-day sport no matter the team.
“Just make sure to tell them to drink plenty of water,” Rose said. “Water is key. You must drink water all throughout the day even when you’re at school.”
“Make sure before games they drink a lot and of course when it comes game time they maintain hydration,” another parent, Chad Scott said.
It is not just for the players. Brian Coleman said it applies to his daughter who has been a cheerleader for 8 years.
“Make sure you are aware of yourself,” Coleman said. ” If you’re getting dizzy make sure you are getting plenty of water and just don’t get too overexerted.”
Coaches have a lot of responsibility in making sure players are not pushing themselves too hard.
“Every time there’s a break or timeout in the quarter, he will scream, ‘water’ and have the water boys bring the water out to all the kids,” Rose explained.
Some teams have adopted special water tubs to bring the H2o to the field.
And sometimes the little players need an extra reminder.
“Their energy keeps them hopping. I know in practice with these little guys, we take our breaks and make sure they drink during the breaks.” Chad Scott said.
In an effort to keep players safe, TSSAA has very specific rules on when practices and games can go on depending on the heat index.
Click the link to find out more.
