Why Are Physical Exams For Sports
Important?
A sports physical assesses whether your child is healthy and physically ready for their sport. Georgia state law and the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) require a signed physical from a licensed provider before children may participate in middle and high school sports—including those at Alpharetta High School, Hopewell Middle, Webb Bridge Middle, and local private schools. Most youth leagues also require updated physicals each season to help reduce the risk of preventable injuries and medical emergencies on the field.
At One Family Pediatrics, our board-certified pediatricians provide thorough, school-approved sports physicals for students in Alpharetta, Windward, Avalon, Brookshade, Kimball Bridge, Webb Bridge, and surrounding North Fulton neighborhoods.
What Does a Sports Physical Involve?
During your child’s sports physical at One Family Pediatrics, our team will:
- Review health history, prior injuries, and family risk factors
- Measure vision, height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate
- Examine the heart, lungs, joints, strength, flexibility, and posture
- Screen for conditions that may affect performance or cause injury
- Provide recommendations for safety, training, and injury prevention
Families should bring any required GHSA or school physical forms, a current immunization history, and a list of medications or allergies.
Paperwork, Forms, and Alpharetta School Requirements
All Fulton County and Alpharetta area schools require completed, up-to-date physicals for student athletes. For the 2025–2026 school year:
- Students must use the current GHSA Pre-Participation Physical Form and submit it via their school’s platform (examples: RankOne, DragonFly Maxx)
- Physicals are valid for one year from the physician signature date
- Additional forms may include concussion, cardiac, and permission documentation
Our office is experienced completing and submitting all relevant paperwork for Alpharetta club and school teams—ask us if you’re unsure which forms you need for your child’s sports league or school.
When Should My Child Get a Sports Physical?
Appointments should be scheduled at least 4–6 weeks before tryouts or the start of the season. This allows time to follow up on any health concerns before clearance. Most families in Alpharetta schedule their physicals over the summer, but physicals are available year-round for mid-season signups or club sports—just let us know your deadline!
Why Choose One Family Pediatrics for Your Child’s Sports Physical?
- Board-certified pediatricians familiar with Alpharetta school, county, and club athletic programs
- Convenient location for families near Avalon, Windward, Kimball Bridge, and the greater North Fulton area
- Same-day and evening appointments available during busy summer and pre-season months
- Comprehensive care: address all your child’s health and wellness needs in one visit, including immunizations and general checkups if due
- Guidance on injury prevention, concussion safety, nutrition, and healthy training habits
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a current patient at One Family Pediatrics?
No, we welcome new patients and local athletes looking for a trusted provider for their sports clearance exam.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring your completed school or league physical form, insurance card, list of medications/allergies, and any glasses/contacts if required for vision screening.
Can a sports physical replace my child’s annual well visit?
Sports physicals assess athletic fitness and safety but are not a substitute for a comprehensive well child checkup (which covers growth, development, vaccines, and more). If preferred, we can combine both into a single visit.
What if my child plays club sports or participates in non-school leagues?
We perform physicals for all youth sports, including travel soccer, Alpharetta parks basketball, swimming, martial arts, and more.
Are walk-ins or last-minute appointments available?
We recommend scheduling ahead during peak season, but will do our best to accommodate urgent needs.
Book Your Alpharetta Sports Physical Today
Prepare your child for a safe, successful season on the field or court. Contact One Family Pediatrics in Alpharetta, GA, for an expert sports physical—serving students and families throughout the greater Alpharetta area, from Windward to Kimball Bridge and all local neighborhoods. Let’s keep your athlete healthy, confident, and ready for the game!