The impact of sports injuries

Mariselle Stofberg
Angelina Norval

Windhoek High School is known for being a very sporty school. However, all sports can lead to injuries, as every sport has its own risk, whether it be a muscle or ligament tear while doing athletics or breaking a bone after being tackled while playing rugby. Other common injuries in sports include sprains and strains, exhaustion and fatigue, head trauma and even heat stroke. As fun and as important as sport can be, it can also negatively impact a student’s life if they obtain a serious injury. Learners can lose focus, miss important work, etc.

Eugene Coetzee, a previous WAP learner, was seriously injured last year. While playing rugby at the Sevens Tournament he was crushed by one of the opponent’s players. This player was larger than Eugene. The player’s weight ended up breaking both Eugene’s shoulders and cracked his ribs. Eugene was hospitalised for 2 weeks and then had rehabilitation for 4 months.

During his rehabilitation Eugene missed out on a lot of school work and had to transfer to a different school, Windhoek High School. This played a big role in his life. Due to his injuries Eugene cannot play rugby again, which he has been doing since he was 13. However, the injuries have somewhat played a positive role. “Windhoek High School has supported me a lot,” stated Eugene. “They help me when anything goes wrong and the school tries to be there as one to show support. Windhoek High School has given me an opportunity to be a part of the family.”

Even though Eugene sustained very serious injuries that will prevent him from playing sports again he stated: “I would not change anything that happened because it all lead me to the person I am today.”

Due to the big sports rivalries between high schools in Namibia, injuries are common and are increasing because of the learners needs to be the best and do almost anything to win. It is not about having fun anymore. Windhoek High School sports learners are privileged to be in a school that teaches the learners that sports is not just about winning, but about putting your heart into what you love and giving your best. Windhoek High School supports their learners and helps prevent serious injuries by creating a positive mind set for the sports players.