Injuries are the unwanted side effects of active engagement in sport. It is estimated that annually one in six Australians suffer a sports related injury. Sport coaches often witness injuries first hand and are often responsible for initial injury management until professional help is sought when major injuries occur and the ongoing management when minor injuries occur. Hence, sport coaches play an important role in the overall management of injuries, and the development of knowledge and expertise of injuries, illness and recovery are vitally important for sport coaches. Coaches who possess at least a fundamental knowledge of injury, illness and recovery will not only feel more competent and confident but importantly, will be able to reduce the stress and overall prognosis for athletes.

Unit details

Location:
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
SSC2002

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Identify common sporting injuries, differentiating factors and musculoskeletal screening techniques;  
  2. Evaluate the psychosocial drivers of injury and illness, and immunological responses to illness;  
  3. Acquire knowledge of current best practice in recovery strategies from an evidence-based perspective;  
  4. Acquire skills in modifying training and competition, to manage injuries, illness or specific populations (e.g., disability); and,  
  5. To demonstrate an understanding of ethical practice from the perspective of setting boundaries and the referral process.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Practicum Practical testing scenarios (10%, 15%, 15%) 40%
Presentation Poster (20%) & Oral Presentation (20%) 40%
Test Quiz 20%

Required reading

Sports injuries guidebook: athletes' and coaches' resource for identification, treatment and recovery,
Gotlin, RS (ed) 2008,
Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics

Where to next?

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