Keep You and Your Kids Safe From Sports Injuries #AflacSweeps

There’s nothing more exciting then your child’s first day in a team sport! The very last bit of baby is all gone, and there’s your big kid. Ready to really begin their venture out into the real world.

How cute is this little one? It’s just so crazy to me that they are this big. But they are. And along with those cuties entering the soccer field, the worry of sports injuries begins. We have been very lucky so far to have avoided any injuries in the few activities and team sports we’ve been in, thanks goodness. Sports injuries are a real concern, and are a reality for many people.

Many sports come with a risk of injury, but none as dominant as football. In all of high school, college, and professional teams, injuries are a large component to factor in with playing. However, there are ways to help keep your kids safe, and keep your mind at ease. Heck, they’re great for any old game of touch football with the buddies! Don’t get sidelined due to serious illness or injury- here are a few great tips from Aflac:

– Gear up! Don’t get on the field for practice or play without every single piece of necessary protection equipment. Even if you or your child finds a certain piece to be annoying and unnecessary, wear it anyway. The tried and true “Better to be safe than sorry” is amplified here when it comes to the sport of football.

– Be sure to follow the rules. Tripping, blocking, clipping, etc. are all unacceptable because they keep everyone safe! Explain the importance of these rules to your child each year. If they act out in the heat of the moment during a game, have a talk. If it becomes a recurring issue, make them ride the bench for a while. Tough love might just keep them {or someone else} safe.

– Listen to your body. Don’t practice or play through pain. Being a “tough guy” could make an injury worse, and keep you or them from playing indefinitely. If you’re hurt, take the time to heal. You’ll be back before you know it. Listen to your doc. If they tell you 4 weeks until they can suit up, then be sure its 4 weeks before you or your child is on the field for. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

– Make sure you’re covered. Accidents happen. They come when you least expect it. If you become seriously injured, you’re going have medical bills and days out of the office. Make sure you have a backup plan. Supplemental insurance can help cover your out of pocket expenses when you need it most, not to mention cover things that many insurance plans don’t, such as concussions, broken teeth, and ambulance fees. According to the 2014 Aflac WorkForces Report, 66 percent of U.S. workers could not afford the costs associated with a serious illness or injury. You can’t put a price on peace of mind, and voluntary insurance plans are the very best way to get it.

Football is a beloved sport that brings many Americans together. To celebrate, Aflac has a season-long football campaign which includes the Aflac Duck’s new commercial! They have partnered with the Heisman Trophy with the Ultimate College Football Experience Sweepstakes!

Are you the ultimate college football fan? If so, this #AflacSweeps is for you! Three lucky fans will win a trip for two, a pair of tickets to one of three college football games in November, a chance to meet Desmond Howard and more. Enter once per 24 hours on Facebook; for bonus entries, share on Twitter. Enter today and then spread the word to let your friends know it’s #GameOn!

THREE prize packages will be given away, and they all include:

Two tickets to the biggest college football game of the weekend.

Meet & greet with Desmond Howard.

Round trip airfare.

Hotel accommodations.

Ground transportation to and from events.

$500 prepaid debit card for food and other expenses.

CONSUMER NOTICE: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Open to legal permanent residents of 50 U.S. states and DC, 21 or older, who have Internet access and valid email address prior to 08/28/14. To enter and for Official Rules, including odds and prize descriptions, click here: https://www.facebook.com/aflacduck/app_143103275748075. This sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Twitter. For a winner’s list (after 11/10/14), visit the Ultimate College Football Experience tab of this page or mail request to Aflac “Ultimate College Football Experience” (Specify Winner List), Media Relations, 1932 Wynnton Road, Columbus, GA 31999. Sponsor: American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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