When tryouts or camp are on the calendar, a “sports physical” (also called a pre-participation evaluation, or PPE) is often part of the paperwork. This post keeps things very general—no medical instructions—so you know what the visit is for, why programs ask for it, and simple ways to feel prepared. If your school or league has specific forms, bring them along so we can complete what’s required.
What a Sports Physical Is (General)
A sports physical is a readiness check to support safe participation in organized activities. It typically reviews health history at a high level and includes a basic exam appropriate to age and activity. The goal is to help identify anything that may need follow-up before a season starts and to document clearance based on the program’s requirements. It’s not the same as an annual wellness visit—it’s focused on participation for a specific activity and timeframe.
Why Schools and Programs Ask for It
Organized sports rely on consistent paperwork so everyone starts the season on the same page. The PPE process gives families and programs a shared structure for health history, general screening, and any next steps (if needed) ahead of time. Requirements vary by league or school; bring your forms so we can address the right details for your situation.
How This Fits with Primary Care
The PPE is a snapshot for a specific activity. Your primary care relationship covers the broader, year-round picture: prevention, chronic concerns, and ongoing plans. Many families complete both—an annual wellness visit for prevention and a sports physical for the season’s paperwork—so nothing gets missed.
Simple Ways to Feel Ready (Non-Medical)
- Forms: Download or print the school/league forms and bring them to your appointment.
- Glasses/contacts & current medication list: These help us complete the forms accurately.
- Past injuries or surgeries (high level): Jot a brief note so you remember dates and general details.
Where to Start with River Family Health
Sports physicals are listed among our services, alongside Annual Wellness Visits, Acute Care, and more. If you’re up against a deadline, call us—we’ll help you find an appointment time that fits your schedule and ensure the correct forms come with you.
To see our full menu of services, visit the Services page. For questions about scheduling or what to bring, head to Contact.
General Reading (Non-River)
- AAP HealthyChildren: Sports Physical (PPE) overview
- NFHS: Pre-Participation Evaluation of High School Athletes
