Fond Du Lac Times

Family activities often fill the summer calendar, but an important task for parents in Wisconsin is scheduling a sports physical for their children. The Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) mandates that student-athletes undergo a sports physical every two years before participating in school sports or extracurricular activities. With fall sports starting as early as August, July is an ideal time to ensure this requirement is met.

Parents can schedule a sports physical with their child's primary care provider or through Watertown Regional Medical Center's Occupational Health team. These exams are crucial for assessing whether a child is healthy and ready to participate safely in athletic activities.

During the visit, medical professionals will review the child's medical history, conduct a routine physical exam, update immunizations if necessary, and complete any required forms for school or sports participation. The examination includes checking height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, heart and lung function, vision screening, and assessment of muscles, bones, and joints.

A distinction exists between a sports physical and an annual physical. While the former focuses on readiness for sports activities, the latter provides a comprehensive overview of a child's overall health including behavioral and social well-being. If an annual check-up is already scheduled, it may be possible to combine both exams into one visit.

Watertown Regional Medical Center’s Occupational Health Clinic offers these sports physicals at a special price of $50 until August 1st. Appointments can be made by calling 920-262-4253.