- Sports medicine focuses on prevention of injuries through improved training methods like core strengthening, balance training, and proper warm-ups and cool-downs. Injuries are most common in high school athletics due to early specialization, year-round play, and biological immaturity. - Specific injury risks include overuse injuries, ACL tears, and ankle sprains. Prevention strategies include strength training, limiting play and rest days, and bracing. Rehabilitation is emphasized over surgery whenever possible. - "Tommy John" elbow reconstruction was once experimental but is increasingly used in high school athletes, though many quit within a few years due to the long recovery. The goal is to educate all parties on prevention and work as a