'Weekend warriors' pulling up sore

Albert Nikoro, out for the season. Photo / Doug Sherring

Medical staff have reported a rush in the number of unfit sportspeople seeking treatment as the winter season hits its peak.

ACC figures reveal the number of injuries sustained by people playing rugby, league, football, netball and hockey soared between February and last month. The number of league, hockey and netball injuries is up on the same period last year.

Experts say the increase is down to "weekend warriors" failing to get fit for their return to action - and an increasing number of games being played.

St John Ambulance northern communications team leader James Ihimaera said the number of calls had been higher than normal in the past few Saturdays.

"Generally during the winter months, when the rugby and netball kicks off, we have a rush of trauma injuries."

He said a large number were from netball, including cuts from rings and earrings being pulled, "all the bits in places they shouldn't be wearing".

Physiotherapist Kate Brocklehurst said most injuries were sustained in the first four games of the season and by those older than 27.

Registered physiotherapist and AUT lecturer in human movement Kelly Sheerin said people who didn't train during the off-season often misjudged their fitness. Injuries ranged from ankle and ligament strains to shoulder dislocations and Achilles tendon ruptures.

ACC public safety manager Simon Gianotti said sporting injuries cost about $400 million a year and the organisation tried hard with sports bodies to prevent them. It focused on sports that generated high volumes of claims or severe injuries and worked closely with coaches, managers and referees to change player behaviour.

TRAIN, OR PAY THE PRICE

The season was over before it had even started for rising rugby star Albert Nikoro.

The 18-year-old Papatoetoe premier fullback was taken out by a tackle in a pre-season competition.

He needed surgery to repair ligaments in his right leg and will probably be out for up to eight months.

Nikoro believes he could have been better prepared for the game.

"I did a bit of off-season training but not as much as I should have."

He said other serious, older players were more professional in their preparation and treated exercise "like a religion".

His advice?

"Every time you put your boots on just treat it like a grand final.

TIPS TO KEEP FIT

* Make sure all previous injuries have healed.

* Train pre-season to the intensity of the game.

* Ensure your fitness level is sufficient and your equipment is in good condition.

* Warm up and cool down before and after playing.