There are over eight million student-athletes in the United States, which is defined as a student (middle and high school) engaged in interscholastic sports. When community, intramural and private school sports are considered, the number is much bigger.

Athletics comes with risk. Students experience a wide variety of injuries. However, students should not die playing sports particularly from a heart condition that is detectable and treatable.

Sudden cardiac arrest is the #1 (medical) cause of death of student-athletes. It takes the lives of thousands of children every day. There are a few reasons for this outcome. The student-athlete physical exam process is inconsistent and inadequate. Coaches, parents and students are not educated about the warning signs and conditions that lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death. Students do not get their hearts screened.