The Tufts University men’s lacrosse team won the DIII NCAA Championship in 2024. (Photo by Larry French/NCAA Photo via Getty Images)
Twelve members of the Tufts University men’s lacrosse team have been diagnosed with a rare muscle injury after participating in a 45-minute voluntary training session, a university spokesperson said Friday. The training took place on Monday and was led by a Tufts graduate who completed Navy SEAL training, according to the Associated Press.
Training over the past week has left 12 players with rhabdomyolysis, a muscle disease linked to overexertion, five of whom remained hospitalized with the disease as of Friday.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, rhabdomyolysis, commonly known as “rhabdo,” is a condition in which muscles break down. It can be caused by strenuous exercise, dehydration, or overheating. Rhabdomyolysis can damage the kidneys and can be life-threatening if not treated properly.
Patrick Collins, director of communications at Tufts University, said Friday that case numbers and hospitalizations are still subject to change, according to the Associated Press.
“We are closely monitoring the status of the remaining members of our team and have postponed all team practice activities until each member has been tested and is medically cleared to return,” Collins said in a written statement, adding that he hopes for a speedy recovery.
Collins added that given the extent of the injuries, the university would appoint an independent investigator to carry out an external investigation, but the university is refusing to provide further details about how the injuries occurred until the investigation is completed.
Tufts University is the reigning Division III men’s lacrosse champion, having defeated Rochester Institute of Technology in May to take home its fourth NCAA trophy.
