Enhancing Tasmanian community sports safety will be the focus of the Sports Injury Prevention Conference 2010 to be held on Sunday February 28 in Hobart. The conference, hosted by Sports Medicine Australia Victorian and Tasmanian Branch, will present the latest prevention and management techniques of common
sports injuries.

“Sports injuries are costly, not only in terms of health but also expense,” said Sports Medicine Australia Victorian and Tasmanian Branch Executive Officer, Ms Lynne Sheehan.

“Injuries mean more sidelined players, lengthy rehabilitation and often poor team performance.

“It is for these reasons why sport safety is crucial,” said Ms Sheehan. The Sports Injury Prevention Conference is targeted towards sports trainers, first aiders, coaches, players, administrators and all those involved in sport interested in increasing their knowledge of sports injury prevention and management.

“Sports safety personnel are an integral part of all sports. They play a key role in keeping sport safe. Through their knowledge, skills and involvement, injuries are minimised, keeping players in action which contributes to player’s health and fitness and overall sporting success,” said Ms Sheehan.

Conference speakers will include a number of the country’s leading professionals from disciplines spanning exercise science, sports medicine and physiotherapy. Representatives from AFL Tasmania will also present to give participants a valuable insight into practices and techniques for working with young athletes.

Sessions will focus on injury prevention, strength and conditioning practices for young athletes, taping techniques, and common lower limb injuries and techniques on how to avoid them.

To find out more about the Sports Injury Prevention Conference 2010, or to register, visit www.smavic.org.

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