In this episode of NATA-Cast, host Mollie Pillman, MS, MBA, CAE, and guest host NATA President A.J. Duffy III, MS, ATC, PT, bring together a panel of experts to examine exertional heat illness and the heightened risk facing football linemen. Ciara Taylor, EdD, LAT, ATC, chair of the NATA Secondary School Athletic Trainers’ Committee and NATA liaison to the National Federation of State High School Associations; Eric McMahon, MEd, CSCSD, RSCCD, of the National Strength and Conditioning Association; Rebecca Stearns, PhD, ATC, of the Korey Stringer Institute; and Ernie Rimer, PhD, of the University of Louisville, discuss data showing that linemen account for more than 90% of exertional heat stroke deaths in collegiate and secondary school football and explore strategies for prevention. The conversation covers new NFHS guidance, wet bulb globe temperature monitoring, heat acclimatization, hydration, equipment modifications and emergency action plans, as well as factors that put larger athletes at greater risk. The panel also discusses position-specific conditioning, avoiding punitive workouts, monitoring training loads and hydration, coordinating with EMS and the importance of “cool first, transport second” when exertional heat stroke occurs.

Show notes

Here's a list of additional resources:

NSCA Strength and Conditioning Professional Standards and Guidelines: https://www.nsca.com/education/articles/nsca-strength-and-conditioning-professional-standards-and-guidelines

NSCA Safe Return to Training Guidelines: https://www.nsca.com/about-us/position-statements/safe-return-to-training/
https://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/2026-06/Heat%20fact%20sheet%20final%2062626.pdf

What's Hot With Heat: A Roundup of Current Research, Protocols, and Life-Saving Measures: https://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/2026-06/Heat%20fact%20sheet%20final%2062626.pdf

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: NATA Task Force: The ATs’ Role in Implementing Heat Stress Mitigation Strategies in the Occupational Setting: https://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/2026-06/NATA%20Task%20Force%20Executive%20Summary%20The%20AT%27s%20Role%20in%20Implementing%20Heat%20Stress%20Mitigation%20Strategies%20in%20the%20Occupational%20Setting.pdf

NATA TASK FORCE: Preventing Exertional Heat Stroke Death in American Football Linemen: https://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/2026-06/NATA%20Task%20Force%20Preventing%20Exertional%20Heat%20Stroke%20Death%20in%20American%20Football%20Linemen%20Executive%20Summary.pdf

NFHS Preparations Must Begin Now to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses in Fall Sports, Activities: https://nfhs.org/stories/preparations-must-begin-now-to-prevent-heat-related-illnesses-in-fall-sports-activities

Follow The National Athletic Trainers' Association on social media!
Facebook
X
Instagram
LinkedIn

Have an idea for an episode or series? Send us an email!
thenatacast@nata.org