Winter sports season is upon us and many student athletes are hitting the slopes, playing tough defense on the hardwood, pinning opponents on the wrestling mat, strapping on skates, competing in winter track events and even striking out at their local bowling alleys. Injuries in these sports can happen, and it is vital to reach these students and educate them about the dangers of prescription opioids. Sadly, student athletes have an elevated risk of opioid use as sports injuries send more than 2.6 million children to the emergency room every year. 

The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is collaborating with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) to educate youth athletes about the risks of prescription opioids and how to take care of themselves physically and mentally.

I encourage you to watch and share this video about the initiative featuring former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas to learn more about the program and how to protect youth athletes in your community.

I also encourage you to visit KnockOutOpioidAbuse.DrugFreeNJ.org, to learn more about the risks of prescription opioids for student athletes and how you can be part of the solution to address opioid prescription misuse.