According to Tom Coughlin, the coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, part of the trick of dealing with heat is fluid management. Before the pre-season, Coughlin preaches the importance of hydration to his players, and this past year he brought in an expert from Gatorade to discuss what happens to your body.
I'm sure that as high school football practice is beginning, many parents are worried about the deaths that have happened on the pro and college practice fields this past summer. Don't be afraid to talk to the coach about these concerns.
I read a couple of articles stating that Stringer felt that he had to prove something after he fell ill in the heat on the day before his death. Encourage your own football player to listen to his body. If it doesn't feel right, have him tell the coaches. Being macho can end up putting you in a life or death situation.
Encourage frequent drink breaks. Waiting until thirsty is too late. In extreme heat and physical exertion, the body needs regular fluid intake.
A lot of salt will be lost while sweating, and it is important to replenish your sodium.
Give your football player a list of symptoms for heat exhaustion. He needs to know the danger signs.
A little preparation goes a long way in beating the heat.
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