Healthy Athletes and Performance Stations at the 2024 State Summer Games

The 2024 State Summer Games was a vibrant celebration of athletic prowess, community spirit, inclusivity, and health awareness. This year, alongside the much-anticipated sports events, we once again proudly presented the annual Healthy Athletes screening and, for the first time ever, our interactive, athlete-led, Performance Stations. Enhancements to our Healthy Athletes event and the entirety of our Performance Stations were made possible by a grant from Community Health Alliance.

Healthy Athletes: A Hub of Care and Community

The Healthy Athletes event at the State Summer Games in Billings, MT, was a testament to the power of community and healthcare professionals coming together for a common cause. This year, our Healthy Athletes screening encompassed three crucial disciplines: Fit Feet (podiatry), Special Smiles (dental), and FUNFitness (physical therapy). These screenings provided our athletes with comprehensive health evaluations and personalized care recommendations.

Results from the State Summer Games Healthy Athletes Event:

FUNFitness: 57 screenings

Fit Feet: 56 screenings

Special Smiles: 52 screenings

Total screenings: 165

Referrals: 50

Approximately 50 dedicated medical professionals and students volunteered their time and expertise to offer the Healthy Athletes event. Each screening station was overseen by a Clinical Director (CD), a specialized doctor who has undergone rigorous training and certification. These CDs are pivotal to the success of our Healthy Athletes events, and their commitment to volunteering is deeply valued. Additionally, this event could not have happened without the medical volunteers for each station.

The screenings not only provided immediate health insights but also facilitated further care. As a result of their evaluations, 50 athletes were referred to their primary care providers or physical therapists for additional support. The impact of these referrals is immeasurable, ensuring our athletes receive the ongoing care they need to thrive both on and off the field.

Performance Stations: Engaging, Educating, Empowering

In an exciting new addition, Performance Stations were strategically placed in high-visibility areas at the State Summer Games. These stations aimed to deliver practical health education and motivate athletes to participate in the Healthy Athletes screenings. Though untracked in attendance, the Performance Stations were a hit among athletes and spectators alike, adding a new layer of health education to the games.

Highlights of the Performance Stations:

Hydration Station: Featuring a striking sugar demonstration, various popular drinks were displayed with their sugar content visibly marked. This station, led by Athlete Health Messengers, offered an eye-opening comparison between sugary sodas and healthier options like sparkling water. Hearing this information from fellow athletes made the message more relatable and impactful.

Physical Activity Station: Managed by an inclusive local dance group, this station was a hub of energy and enthusiasm. Athletes joined in on fun dance routines and learned effective warm-up and cool-down exercises. The joy and camaraderie were easily felt, as athletes danced together, showcasing the benefits of physical activity in a fun and engaging way.

Game Day Minds Station: Focusing on mental preparation and competition readiness, this station encouraged athletes to write positive self-talk messages. Phrases like “I will be brave in the attempt,” “I am ready to compete today!” and “I know I can do this!” adorned the station, creating an empowering environment. These affirmations helped athletes build confidence and mental resilience, which are crucial for their performance.

A Resounding Success

The 2024 State Summer Games were not just about sports but about fostering a holistic approach to athlete health and well-being. The Healthy Athletes screenings and Performance Stations complemented each other perfectly, offering a comprehensive support system for our athletes. The dedication of our volunteers, our Clinical Directors’ expertise, and our athletes’ enthusiasm made these initiatives a resounding success. We are confident going forward that being able to add this element to Games is a positive step that will affect more athletes each time.

As we look back on the 2024 State Summer Games, we are filled with pride and gratitude. The success of the Healthy Athletes and Performance Stations initiatives has set a new benchmark for future events. Together, we continue to promote health, fitness, and overall well-being, ensuring our athletes are prepared, confident, and ready to shine, both in their sports and in their everyday lives.

With Special Thanks: 

In addition to independent volunteers, the following organizations provided medical professionals and those in training to our event(s):

Intermountain Health/St. Vincent Regional Hospital, Billings Clinic, Rocky Mountain College, Rocky Vista University, Movement Montana.

These events were made possible in part by a grant from the Montana Community Health Alliance (formerly Foundation for Community Health https://www.communityhealthwmt.org/)