Coaches responsible for player's health

Terre Haute, Ind. (WTHI) - In a 2008 case, a Louisville football coach was charged with reckless homicide when one of his players died from heat stroke.

With pre-season and hot temperatures in the Wabash Valley, it begs the question, are coaches or parents responsible for the health of young athletes?

Football coach Mark Raetz at Terre Haute South Vigo High School said he is ultimately in charge of the conditions that players practice in.

He also consults medical trainers to make decisions.

In heat related accidents, some folks argue that coaches should be liable.

"I remind the coaches before practice to really look at their kids. If they see anyone looking funny, looking like the heat's getting to them, to pull them out and have them go see the trainer," Raetz said.

Ultimately, the Louisville coach was found not guilty of reckless homicide of his player.

For more information on safety conditions for athletes, visit http://www.nata.org/