The WIAA Sports Medical Advisory Committee has updated the WIAA Medical Policies and Procedures Handbook. It will be printed and sent to each member school. The PDF version is updated and available online HERE.
In additions, the Emergency Action Plan section has been updated. Emergency situations may arise at any time during athletic events. Expedient action must be taken in order to provide the best possible care to the sport participant. The development and implementation of an emergency action plan will help ensure that the best care will be provided. Click for more information.
Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in young athletes while training or participating in sport competition. Even athletes who appear healthy and have a normal preparticipation screening may have underlying heart abnormalities that can be life threatening. The SMAC updated this section of the guide and web site as well. Click for more information. In cooperation with Project ADAM, schools can request grants for AED's and training. More information pertaining to the Anyone Can Save a Life program will be coming soon.
Performance Enhancing Substances has been updated on the web site as well. The pamphlet was updated and is in a new form. Click for more information. The WIAA is against the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids and other performance enhancing substances (PES). Member schools shall devote time each year to positive programs which highlight prevention and education of the risks, benefits and adverse effects of PES.
The Sports Medical Advisory Committee also reviewed the WIAA heat acclimatization policies and recommended a Model Policy for Managing Heat & Humidity. A tool is available for helping coaches: Heat Safety Tool for SmartPhones. Transgender student-athlete participation was also addressed by the SMAC and the policy was approved by the Board of Control in June.
Members of the committee are: Conrad Andringa, MD, Chairman, Madison; Patrick McKenzie, MD, Green Bay
Claudia Reardon, MD, Madison; Laurel Rudolph, MD, Marshfield; Dave Ulery, MD, Oconomowoc; Don Wackwitz, MD, Madison; Kevin Walter, MD, Milwaukee; Jason Abels, LAT (WATA Liaison), Waukesha; Jane Foos, RD, CD (ADA Liaison), Menomonie