Quick Answer: Texas requires student athletes to complete a UIL preparticipation physical before their first practice each school year. A sports physical checks your child’s overall health and readiness for activity. At Make You Well, sports physicals are available on a walk-in basis, so you can get your athlete cleared quickly, even at the last minute.
As the school year approaches, sports physicals move to the top of many families’ to-do lists. In Texas, this is not just a good idea, it is a requirement for student athletes. Here is what the physical involves, what to bring, and how to get it done fast before the season starts.
Why Texas Student Athletes Need a Sports Physical
The University Interscholastic League (UIL) governs public school athletics in Texas and requires student athletes to complete a preparticipation physical evaluation before participating in a sport. The physical is designed to confirm that your child is healthy enough for the demands of practice and competition, and to catch any conditions that should be managed before they hit the field or court.
New athletes generally need a physical before their first year of participation, and many schools require an updated evaluation each year. The exam must be documented on the official UIL Physical Examination form, which your school’s athletic department can provide.
What Happens During a Sports Physical
A sports physical is focused and efficient. Your provider will typically:
- Review your child’s medical history, including past injuries, illnesses, allergies, and family history
- Check height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse
- Listen to the heart and lungs
- Examine vision, ears, nose, and throat
- Assess joints, strength, flexibility, and posture
- Discuss any concerns about safe participation in the chosen sport
The goal is not to disqualify young athletes but to help them play safely. If the provider identifies something worth watching, they will explain the next steps and how to keep your child participating whenever possible.
What to Bring to the Appointment
- The completed history portion of the UIL physical form, filled out with a parent or guardian
- A list of current medications and known allergies
- Eyeglasses or contacts, if your child wears them
- Insurance information, if applicable
Completing the medical history section at home ahead of time keeps the visit quick and helps your provider make the most of your appointment.
Beat the Rush With Walk-In Availability
August is the busiest time of year for sports physicals, and many families find themselves searching for an appointment just days before practice begins. Make You Well makes it simple. Sports physicals are available on a walk-in basis with no appointment needed at our Richardson clinic and our East University Urgent Care location in Odessa, and same-day appointments are available at every location across Texas. Find the clinic nearest you on our Locations page.
Because our clinics also provide primary care, we can be your family’s home for everything from a sports physical today to routine wellness visits all year long. Learn more about our whole-patient approach on our Approach to Care page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a sports physical cost?
Costs vary by clinic and insurance. Make You Well is an insurance-friendly practice that accepts most major PPO plans. Contact your nearest clinic to ask about pricing and coverage for a sports physical.
Do I need an appointment for a sports physical?
No. Sports physicals are available on a walk-in basis at our Richardson and Odessa East University locations, and same-day appointments can be booked at any Make You Well clinic.
How long does a sports physical take?
Most sports physicals take about 20 to 30 minutes. Filling out the medical history portion of the UIL form before you arrive helps keep the visit quick.
Is a sports physical the same as a regular checkup?
No. A sports physical focuses on readiness for athletic activity, while an annual wellness visit is a broader look at your child’s overall health. Many families choose to do both, and our providers can help you plan the right care.
How early should we get a sports physical?
Complete the physical before your child’s first practice. Getting it done in early August, before the back-to-school rush, is the easiest way to avoid last-minute stress.
Get Your Athlete Cleared Today
Do not wait until the day before practice. Walk in or schedule a same-day sports physical at the Make You Well clinic near you: https://makeyouwell.com/contact/