After a softball injury sidelined Kennedy junior Morgan Bronfeld last summer, she began petitioning for mandatory ACL education and prevention as part of the New York State physical education curriculum.
As part of her Leadership II civic project, Bronfeld began contacting NYS Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office, asking that this type of training be included in the curriculum.
“I think it would be beneficial as it can help prevent injuries from happening, as well as spread information on how they occur and their prevalence,” explained Bronfeld, who required surgery and physical therapy for her torn ACL and meniscus.
She also worked closely with the Stars Rehabilitation Department of Northwell Health to bring a physical therapist in on Feb. 13-14 to address each physical education class at Kennedy.
The program covered common injuries such as shin splints, muscle and tendon strains, ligament sprains, and ACL issues.
John Carl, a physical therapist at STARS Rehabilitation discussed the four pillars of health: training, recovery, nutrition and mental health.
“Recovery doesn’t always mean rest,” Carl told the students. “It means getting active even when you’re sore. Or doing skill work or core work on your recovery day.”
He emphasized how nutrition also plays a large role for those in training.
“How well you fuel yourself is how well you can perform the day of competition,” he added. “Protein, vitamins and minerals, water and electrolytes are included in this.”
Carl also stressed how mental health is importance for maintaining drive and focus before having students perform various exercises properly and having them demonstrate core techniques and stretches.
While Bronfeld has not heard back from the governor’s office yet, she said she plans to continuing writing letters, emails and getting in contact with legislators.
School and Community Leadership is a three-year program offered at the high schools that aims to promote community service and civic action and foster leadership skills among students.
Click here to view the Kennedy Student Advocates for Injury Prevention Education in Phys Ed Classes 2025 slideshow.
Date Added: 2/14/2025