Student Health and Rowing

Rowing is an intensive physical sport. Crew athletes are some of the best conditioned athletes in any sport. Preparation for rowing competition involves running, aerobic conditioning, weight training, and high-level physical exertion on the water. Teens who have particular health-related conditions should consult their medical practitioner prior to the crew season regarding any specific concerns or accommodations which may be necessary. During the season, teens must be alert to changes in their physical condition which may require medical evaluation and/or assistance from the trainer. Please review the following material regarding specific medical conditions: asthma, diabetes, and severe allergies. Make note of the medical clearance requirements for sports participation.

Asthma

Good news! Rowing and asthma are not mutually exclusive. Aquil Abdullah, U.S. Men's Double Scull at the Athens Olympic Games (first U.S. double to qualify for the finals in 20 years) has asthma. He joins these well known athletes who compete with asthma: Jackie Joyner Kersey - track and field, Jerome Bettis - NFL running back, Kristi Yamaguchi - figure skating, Tom Dolan - swimming, Dennis Rodman - NBA basketball, and Ray Borque - NHL ice hockey. However, exercise is a common trigger for asthma. The intensive nature of rowing can exacerbate asthma symptoms. If your teen has asthma, they can probably row, but their asthma management plan may need to be reevaluated to account for the increased exercise. Additionally, it is critical that coaches know that your teen has asthma so that they can be particularly alert to symptoms during practice and so that they can alert rowing officials during competition. Given the distance to help on shore, your teen needs to understand how to manage their asthma symptoms and should carry their inhaler at all times.

Diabetes

Rowing’s most famous diabetic, British pair's rower Steve Redgrave was diagnosed with diabetes after winning four Olympic gold medals. Post-diagnosis, Redgrave continued on to win gold medal number five. Canadian rower Chris Jarvis competed in Athens despite his severe case of diabetes. However, the high demands rowing places on the athlete means that careful management and planning are required. Please consult your family physician, reminding him or her that your teen will be on the water, away from immediate medical care. Please also let the coaches know so that they watch for signs during practice and can alert regatta officials.

Severe Allergies (Anaphylactic Shock)

Rowers are at no higher risk than anyone else who has severe allergic reactions. However, on the water, they are a greater distance from medical assistance. Please let the coaches know about your teen's condition. They should be carrying their epi-pen at all times during practice and regattas.

Clearance from the Health Office

All students are required to obtain medical clearance from the health office each season prior to participating in sports at E. O. Smith High School. Students who require medication must have clearance through the Health Services Office along with appropriate forms for self-administration. A list of all required form are found on the Crew general information page. Further questions regarding health care issues may be addressed with the Health Office at 860-487-4519.

Welcome to the web home of E. O. Smith High School Crew