Play ball: Sports physicals appointment schedules available May 24 Published May 7, 2010 By Natalie Henderson 82nd Medical Support Squadron SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Parents can begin making appointments for sports physicals beginning May 24 for the first sports physical clinic which will be held June 19. Students who plan to play on school sports teams are required by University Interscholastic League rules to have a completed physical prior to the first day of practice. In addition to local school requirements, children playing fall sports for the Madrigal Youth Center or local athletic leagues will also need clearance. For students in the local area, practice typically begins between two and three weeks before the start date of school. The Wichita Falls and surrounding areas are scheduled to start Aug. 23. If a child has had a physical in the past 12 months, there is no need to make an appointment. Parents will need drop off the UIL or youth center forms at the front desk in the pediatrics office. The pediatrics staff will ensure the paper work is signed; which typically takes three to four duty days. If a parent is unsure of the date their child last received a physical exam, call (940) 676-6777. Two providers will only see children with scheduled sports physical appointments on June 18-19, July 16-17 and Aug. 6-7. Please be aware and remember the appointments will be strictly for sports clearance only. Children who have a chronic medical condition such as asthma, heart or joint concerns should not schedule a Saturday appointment as these will be shorter visits and ancillary services will not be available. During the select weekend appointments there will not be any medication refills or referrals. Sports forms will need to be complete with both parent and patient information filled out in its entirety before the scheduled appointment. Parents and children will need to arrive 15-20 minutes early to complete other forms that will be required. Additional forms are available at the clinic ahead of time if parents wish to complete them before the visit. Families who no-show will have letters sent to the sponsor's commander as the staff will work additional hours to accommodate the increased demand. Parents have a responsibility to keep these appointments. To schedule a sports physical call (940) 676-1847.