As climate change drives hotter summers, high school football players, especially in the Southeast, are suffering from heat-related illnesses, with some tragically dying on the field.
Michael Casey reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- At least 58 players have died from heat stroke since 1992, with five fatalities in 2024 alone.
- Heavy equipment, intense conditioning and inadequate safety measures increase players’ vulnerability to heat illness.
- Many states lack comprehensive policies, emergency plans and resources like cooling equipment to protect athletes.
Key quote:
“We know that heat stroke is the most severe version of heat illness, is the only one that is life threatening and also know that it uniquely afflicting football players specifically at high school and collegiate levels.”
— Rebecca Stearns, chief operating officer of the Korey Stringer Institute
Why this matters:
Hotter conditions are increasing health risks for young athletes. The lack of adequate safety protocols and equipment in many school districts leaves players exposed to life-threatening situations.
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