Soccer fans traveled to Cary, North Carolina, for The Soccer Tournament (TST) at WakeMed Soccer Park this summer. The second year of this event was a huge success, hosting 48 men’s and eight women’s teams who competed for the $1 million prize. The seven-versus-seven open-entry competition attracts many well-known clubs and players, including Sergio Aguero, Nani, and Heather O’Reilly, to name a few.
Duke Sports Medicine was the official provider of medical support during the six days of the tournament. The medical tent was in the Athlete’s Village, where players received pre-game prep, such as soft tissue work and taping, and post-game treatment, including Hyperice recovery equipment and hydration.
This year, first- and second-year Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students volunteered to help with the event, making the short trip to Cary. They joined a team of physical therapists, physicians, athletic trainers, nutritionists, and other students who worked together to ensure players' health and safety throughout the tournament.
Second-year student Miranda Cano—one of the eight Duke DPT students at TST—reflected on the experience. “I was involved as an athletic trainer on the field, on standby in the medical cart, and the Athlete’s Village, providing pre and post-game treatment. I loved speaking with the athletes to learn more about them and their team, and I also enjoyed making connections with the rest of the medical staff.”
This was an excellent opportunity for students to get hands-on experience in a sports setting. Another second-year DPT student, Jamie Murff, wants to specialize in sports and eventually work with a soccer club. “I can’t fully put into words how thankful I am to have had this experience for my professional growth and as a life-long soccer fan,” she says.
This year, La Bombonera was crowned TST champion in the men’s bracket, and the U.S. Women’s team was victorious on the women’s side. Both teams received $1 million and will look to defend their crown at TST next year, which will held in Cary for the third straight year.