By Andrew Tidswell
Spalding United player and Elite Sports Academy MD
This past weekend saw why having a top class physio at a sporting club is paramount.
I must start by echoing everyone’s thoughts in wishing Jonny Allen, of Holbeach United, a very speedy recovery from his horrific double leg break he suffered against Cogenhoe United on Saturday.
I’m lucky to know Jonny as not only a player but a friend and there are many people who can also say that.
I managed to speak with him over text message on Saturday evening and it was great to see that he has still kept his humour, even at what must be a hard time.
The reaction of the football family –not only Holbeach fans, players and managers – but also the fans, players and managers from a wide range of clubs has been truly amazing and speaks volumes for the type of player and person that Jonny is.
Knowing him, he won’t know what the fuss is about though and will just be trying to get back to normal life quickly with his partner Claire and his little son Jack.
Highest praise must go to Carol Holland, the Holbeach physio, and also the Cogenhoe United physio for attending to Jonny at such speed and making him as comfortable as possible.
A mention should also go to the ambulance service, who often get criticised for how long it takes them to attend situations. Again, they were at the scene very quickly.
Physios at football clubs often go under the radar, but these people should get as many accolades as managers and coaches do.
They are responsible for looking after the players and/or helping them prepare.
From a personal point of view, Sam Seal – who is the current physio at Spalding United – is the best one I have worked with.
I know that the players of Holbeach speak highly of the work Carol does and she clearly demonstrated her skills and work yesterday in a distressing time.
I’d advise anyone who has any injury concern to contact Sam Seal for advice or an appointment and he will help you. From my injury nightmare last season – and even this season – he has pieced me together and helped me through problems time and time again, as he has other players as well.
I will be forever grateful for what he has done for me and yet he carries on as if he hasn’t done anything.
These guys in all football clubs are unsung heroes and often don’t get recognised for the miracles they perform.
Do all local clubs have top class physios? I’d hazard a guess that they don’t – and that is a danger even before a ball is kicked.
This could simply come down to budget and football clubs gambling on paying another striker or midfielder rather than extra money for an outstanding physio.
For me there isn’t a price on our health and fitness and this is an area football clubs – or even in fact all sports clubs – should make sure is top drawer.
As shown this weekend these people are priceless.
