TOP (Tackling Opioids through Prevention) for Athletes is intended to help raise awareness of opioid use among student athletes, and to provide evidence-based information to strengthen policies and practices within schools, athletic departments and community based athletic programs.
Our agency is available to provide FREE presentations and support within Hunterdon and Somerset to schools, teams, as well as community sports programs.
Interested Coaches, School Personnel, or Healthcare Providers: Contact Project Director, Lesley Gabel at 908-782-3909, lgabel@njprevent.com
- Talk about school and team policies, including any possible consequences.
- Keep your team physician informed of any medicines you may be taking.
- Tell someone if you are experiencing side-effects or withdrawal symptoms.
“Injury is a major stressor for athletes and one that can pose significant challenges.
Student athletes must handle rigorous academic as well as athletic demands that require time as well as significant physical requirements.
Trying to perform and succeed in the classroom and the playing field has become more difficult as the demands and expectations have increased. If an athlete is injured, these stressors increase.”
– Br J Sports Med (2016)
Download Materials
Video Resources
Events
A student athlete’s story of addiction as told by his mother, Kerri Rhodes. Includes brief video showing, followed by a panel discussion.
Congratulations to the winners!
| Somerset | Hunterdon | |
| 1st Place | Tara K., 9th Grade, “The Consequences of Drug/Alcohol Abuse and How to Help” | Kelly C., 12th Grade, “Physical Health” |
| 2nd Place | Ryan S., 9th Grade, “Call to Action” | Emma W., 9th Grade, “What Will Drugs and Alcohol Do to Your Body?” |
| 3rd Place | Marissa M., 9th Grade, “Alcohol Abuse Must Stop” | |
| 4th Place | Bella B., 9th Grade, “Be Strong” |
Contest information (CLOSED):
