Sports Physicals Information

Published August 14, 2008

The State Department of Education has reversed its decision to require all seventh and ninth grade students to get a comprehensive well child checkup before they are eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics in middle and high schools.

To be eligible to participate in athletics for the 2008-2009 school year, the students can either get the

Interscholastic Sports Exam or a Pre-participation Exam. Physicians should have these forms available in their offices. If not, access the WCS Sports Connection and find copies of the forms located under Physical Exams.

Given that the intent of the proposed rule is to improve children’s health, the State Board of Education still recommends that athletes in these two grades get the comprehensive well-child checkup. This checkup should be done by the athlete’s primary care provider.