The Darfur United “Hospital”

The Darfur United “Hospital”

Quotation marks can signal that someone is speaking, that something is a title, or that a word or phrase is being used in a special way. There was certainly something special about “the Hospital.” That’s what the players of Darfur United called my hotel room: “the...
Insights from DU Athletic Trainer

Insights from DU Athletic Trainer

During the training camp here in Ostersund, Sweden, as in many football training camps around the world, one objective is to provide the highest standard of medical care.  Each player comes to see me–between on-field, snowy training sessions and team...
They Are Strong

They Are Strong

The members of Darfur United share the hardships of any international athlete: long flights to a foreign country followed by new foods and unfamiliar playing fields. But unlike star athletes from professional leagues, they arrive malnourished, dehydrated and...
Embarking on a Dream

Embarking on a Dream

How do I predict what a Darfur United player might need medically? What sort of injuries will I need to treat? Which on-field soccer medical treatments will I need to perform? The theme is “be prepared.” Therefore, the players, the entire world, and I – the...
Confidentiality

Confidentiality

Usually there is an understanding of patient – therapist confidentiality. What is said during physical therapy treatment is of utmost secrecy. This is not so on the tratement table of Darfur United. They want the world know about Darfur and they need us to be...