International Sport Connection Brings Sports Medicine Supplies to Children and Coaches in Uganda

The International Sport Connection brought sports medicine supplies to young soccer and basketball players and coaches throughout Uganda.  In May 2012, Athletic Trainer Natalie Trotter, currently at University of Arkansas, donated supplies that were generously provided from Mike Finke at Patterson Medical and additional generous sponsors.

 Natalie Trotter used the donated items during her interactive lectures on care and prevention of injuries, first aid, and sports injuries during the 2012 ISC Basketball Coach Training Program.  After the training was complete the remaining donations were given to the Federation of Uganda Football Associations and the Women’s National Soccer Coach Nantanda Majidah, for their work with girls and women’s grassroot soccer programs.  

 

Since soccer is not a common sport for girls in Uganda, these girls miss out on proper medical care and first aid treatments because it goes to programs for men and boys.  With this donation of a sports medicine bag, taping supplies, massage ointments, medicine, and ACE bandages, these girls will be able to prevent and treat their injuries.  Thanks to the International Sport Connection, young girls across Uganda will be protected when they participate in sport!

The International Sport Connection Assistant Director, Lisa Berg, and the Head Coach of the Ugandan Women’s National Soccer Team, Majidah Nantanda, spent 5 months delivering the equipment to girls who love the game of soccer but had not been given opportunities or encouragement before.  Most of the girls in Uganda play in bare feet and without proper equipemtn.  They are more susceptible to injuries so this gift from the friends of the International Sport Connection was needed and appreciated.

The International Sport Connection is willing to accept additional donations to use directly associated with our future coach training programs and follow-up work throughout Uganda.  Please contact Assistant Director Lisa Berg if you have donations for the International Sport Connection (berg1239@umn.edu).