Athletes are often pushed to their limits during training in order to reach their full potential. However, sometimes athletes push too far, leading to tragic injuries or deaths. The issue of high-temperature training has received attention especially after the death of UCF freshman Ereck Plancher. He died on March 18, 2008, during voluntary strength and conditioning drills where, according to attorneys representing Plancher’s parents, coach George O’Leary had ordered water off the field. The autopsy revealed that his death was due to complications of Sickle Cell trait, a condition that results in misshapen blood cells which can disrupt the vascular system during stress, affecting blood flow. Plancher’s family sued UCF for negligence, and on June 30, 2011, the jury awarded $10 million to his family.

This is not a new problem, especially here in Florida. The issue of training in hot weather has been in the spotlight since the deaths of Eraste Autin of the University of Florida, Devaughn Darling of Florida State University, as well as Rashidi Wheeler of Northwestern in Illinois in 2001. In another tragic case, University of South Florida running back Keeley Dorsey passed away while lifting weights in January, 2007. Tragedies such as these can be prevented when the proper measures are taken.

Coaches should be made aware of any conditions athletes might have beforehand that could lead to complications from training. This way, proper accommodations can be made in advance (if they don’t know, how can they prepare?). Hydration is also extremely important during conditioning for any sport. Especially in Florida, where temperatures are much higher than most parts of the U.S, water should be available to athletes at all times. Senior Chase Minervini said, “before a long run, I make sure to drink at least two cups of water about 30 minutes before the run, or more depending on how long I will be out.”

When it comes to the safety of training here at SHS, Senior Desire Willingham said, “I feel like Seminole athletes are in good hands. I have yet to hear anything about trainers not giving kids water breaks, or kids passing out because they neglected to pay attention to their health.” As long as a balance is kept between pushing athletes to do their best and watching out for their safety, complications will hopefully not occur. Junior Leslie Simmons says, “Coaches need to be careful about how they train their team. There’s a line between pushing an athlete to do their best and compromising their safety.”

Everyone–athletes, coaches, parents, etc.–need to be aware of the dangers surrounding high-heat training/games so that incidents, and possibly tragedies, can be avoided. Be sure to stay hydrated, listen to your body’s signals if something is wrong, and don’t be afraid to bring problems to the attention of your teammates/coaches. Stay safe out there!