Injury Prevention and Recovery: Insight from Burrough’s Beloved Trainer, Dean Tiffany

Much of Burroughs’ athletic success depends on the hard work of our dedicated athletic trainer, Dean Tiffany. Whether it’s diagnosing an injury on the field or creating a long-term recovery plan, Dean is always ready to help guide athletes back to full strength. Because of Dean’s expertise in injury prevention and rehabilitation, we decided to sit down with him to learn more about health and recovery.  

Eating and drinking well is crucial for athletic success—it provides energy, aids in muscle growth and repair, and helps prevent injuries. In preparation for a game or practice, you should consume carbohydrates such as rice, bread, pasta, or even a bag of chips, which provide a quick-acting energy source. It’s crucial to start carb-loading days before a big event, like a tournament or series of games, because it builds on your stored energy. For post game recovery, however, it is important to eat non-processed and non-fatty foods such as fruits and vegetables. Additionally, eating lean proteins, like eggs and chicken breast, supports muscle repair and bone health, which require extra care after intense physical activity.

Dean also emphasizes the importance of reaching out to the training staff immediately after an injury. Many athletes are scared to do so because they are nervous that the trainers will not let them play. But, Dean makes it clear his hope is the opposite: “My goal is to help you be able to play—part of my job is to screen injuries and make sure serious things get attention really quick.” The longer you wait to reach out, the more likely it is that your injury will worsen, and you won’t be able to play. No matter how small the injury, you should meet with Dean right away. 

At the start of each season, it is essential to ease into the intense activity and not shock your body. Dean says that the “most common injuries are muscle strains and tendon injuries,” which can be attributed to improper preseason training and inadequate preparation. The best way to prevent this from happening is to “slowly build up and prepare before the season begins,” says Dean. To stay healthy throughout the year, it is best to begin preparing well in advance of tryouts.  

Next time you have an ache or pain, remember the trainers’ goals are to support and help our community throughout our athletic careers. The care and support provided by our athletic trainers are tremendously helpful and greatly appreciated.

By: Bronwen Boekholt '28 and Alara Albrecht '28 

Edited by: Lexi Schoenecker '26

Photo: Emma Sacks '26