The NCAA requires that all first year student athletes provide Hiram College with proof of Sickle Cell solubility testing. Sickle Cell testing is commonly performed at birth.

You may upload your results in one of 3 ways:

1) Provide a copy of your sickle cell test results either from the Hospital of your birth or from your family physician/pediatrician.

2) Have testing performed by your family physician prior to coming to campus.

3) Testing will available on campus in the Hiram College Health Center at your cost.  You will not be permitted to participate in any physical activity until we recieve the results.  Results may take several days.  This should be your last option.

Please complete this form by August 1, 2025 for fall sports and prior to the start of classes for all other sports.

If you have questions please contact Jim Johnston, Head Athletic Trainer at johnstonjw@hiram.edu.

About Sickle Cell Trait

·         Sickle cell trait is an inherited condition and is usually benign; but during intense, sustained exercise, hypoxia (lack of oxygen) in the muscles may cause sickling of red blood cells (red blood cells changing from a normal disc shape to a crescent or “sickle” shape), which can accumulate in the bloodstream and “logjam” blood vessels, leading to collapse from the rapid breakdown of muscles starved of blood.

·         Recent studies show that persons with sickle cell trait are at an increased risk of collapse and death with vigorous exercise.

·         The risk of serious complications and death among athletes with sickle cell trait can be greatly reduced with simple training modifications.

·         Sickle cell trait is more common among people of African, Hispanic, Indian, Mediterranean and South/Central American descent.  Sickle cell can also be present in persons of Caucasian descent.

·         A positive Sickle Cell Trait test does not eliminate one from playing sports or athletic participation.

·         Students who are sickle cell trait positive will meet with the sports medicine staff and coaching staff to review appropriate procedures and/or any modifications necessary for participation.