Student athletes who participate in team sports are less likely to smoke tobacco or marijuana or use illicit drugs, but they are more likely to consume (frequently) alcohol. While research provides only theories as to why this athlete/alcohol link, experts say one way to discourage these students from drinking is to educate them on the negative impact alcohol has on their minds, their bodies and their athletic performance.
Two weeks of training effect is lost after one night of drinking - wasted time and effort.
Alcohol suppresses your training hormones for up to four days. You can show up for practice, but no improvement comes.
Alcohol impairs reaction time for up to 12 hours after consumption. Practice the day after a night of drinking, and it will show in your poor performance.
Overall performance potential is lowered by over 11 percent after recent heavy drinking. Your potential of achieving your personal "best" just decreased.
John Underwood, director of The American Athletic Institute, said, "Remember when you are partying, that somewhere, someone is training ... and when you meet them, they will beat you."
The Mental Health and Recovery Services Board is committed to sharing information and resources for better mental health and the prevention of substance abuse. If you would like more information, please call the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties at (419) 448-0640. The board's office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
Nancy Cochran,
executive director
