Belgrade—March 5, 2010
The United States Davis Cup men’s team will face a tough challenge from the team representing Serbia in the 2010 World Group playoffs, but they brought support on the road with them.
“Being the team doctor for the U.S. Davis cup team is a unique and exciting experience, but comes with a lot of responsibility, particularly when playing overseas,” said Dines. “Basically, I am responsible for the health of the team of four players and two practice partners, the coaches, and support staff; that being said, I am fortunate to be surrounded by a great group of experienced support staff, including a trainer, massage therapist, and a strength and conditioning coach.”
Prevention is the key to maintaining the U.S. team’s performance at peak level at the Davis Cup. Hydration is another important aspect to consider in treating the athletes.
“Unlike other sports such as baseball or football where you have a bunch of players on the bench ready to fill in, for the Davis Cup we only fly over the four people who are going to play,” said Dines. “This doesn’t allow for any wiggle room with the roster and makes keeping the guys ready to play imperative.”
The U.S.-Serbia playoffs, which will span three days and be played indoors on red clay, start on March 5 and conclude March 7.
The matches are being played on red clay. From a tennis perspective, that means longer points, more running and potentially longer matches,” said Dines. “Hydration and nutrition can become an issue so we are very aware of that all week and make sure the players drink enough to stay hydrated. On the bright side, the climate is nice, typically in the 50s.”
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