Athlete Screening: What Teams and Athletes Need to Know

One missed screening can end a season or a career. Athlete screening isn’t about paperwork — it catches hidden problems, lowers injury risk, and helps coaches pick the right training load. If you manage players or you’re an athlete, this is the practical checklist you want before the season starts.

What a good screening covers

Start with a clear history. Ask about past injuries, fainting, chest pain, family heart disease, and any medications. A short medical history often flags problems that need tests.

Basic physical exam and cardiac checks come next. That usually includes blood pressure, heart and lung exam, and — depending on the level of play — an ECG. If anything looks off, refer to a cardiologist for an echo or further testing. Safety first: sudden cardiac events are rare but preventable when picked up early.

Musculoskeletal screening finds weak links. Look for range-of-motion limits, muscle imbalances, and unstable joints. Simple functional tests — single-leg squat, hop tests, or a functional movement screen — help you spot players who need targeted rehab before they break down in training.

Concussion baseline testing is non-negotiable. A pre-season cognitive and balance test gives you a comparison point if a head injury happens. Use a repeatable tool and store results securely so you can track recovery against the baseline.

Doping control and education should be part of any program that feeds into elite competition. Teach athletes about banned substances, check supplements, and have clear procedures for testing and appeals that align with WADA rules.

How to run screenings that actually work

Plan them early. Run pre-season screenings at least once, with follow-up checks mid-season for high-risk players or after long absences. Booking a single day for the whole squad saves time and gets everyone on the same page.

Use qualified staff. A mix of a sports physician, physiotherapist, and trained tester is ideal. If you can’t afford specialists, partner with a local clinic or university sports program. Keep written consent and medical records for every athlete.

Make a simple action plan. For each red flag, define the next step: rest and rehab, imaging, specialist referral, or a modified training plan. Don’t delay referrals for chest symptoms, repeated concussions, or unexplained breathlessness.

Communicate clearly. Explain the purpose to athletes: this is to protect their careers and performance. Keep data private and only share with the athlete or those directly responsible for care and training.

Want to start now? Ask your coach or club: when was the last full screening? If it’s been over a year, book a basic check. Small steps now can stop big problems later.