Bo Knows Sports Injuries

In a recent interview with USA Today, Bo Jackson, an All-Star in both football and baseball, revealed that if he knew about the consequences of football injuries, particularly head injuries, he never would have played the sport. This, coming from a man who won the Heisman Trophy and has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Sports enthusiasts can only imagine what kind of career he could have had if he just stuck to baseball.

There are lessons to be learned here for high school athletes and the coaches who drive them to win at any cost. Recent protocols enacted by the National Football League regarding concussions, should give pause to those in high school and college sports. Parents too, need to become informed and stay focused on the issues and the consequences of sports injuries. Last week, I had an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to treat a non- sports related injury. As I sat in the waiting room, I observed a continual parade of high school students (and their parents) coming for treatment for sports injuries. I know that participation in sports is a great outlet for aggressive behavior and to channel excess energy. I am also aware of the need and desire for high school athletes to obtain college scholarships. (“Signing Day” is a big deal here in Florida) But we need to approach this issue with our eyes wide open.

Bo Jackson knows. And so should you!

c.2017 J. Margolis