Tufts Lacrosse Players Hospitalized After Navy SEAL Workout, Review Finds Lack of Oversight

An independent review has determined that a Navy SEAL instructor who conducted a demanding workout session at Tufts University, which hospitalized nine students, did not possess the necessary credentials to oversee group exercise activities. In September 2024, 24 out of 61 participants experienced rhabdomyolysis, a rare and severe muscle injury, following the workout.

A review by sports medicine consultant Rod Walters and attorney Randy Aliment highlighted shortcomings from the university and the Navy SEAL regarding maintaining adequate training conditions. The conclusion indicated that the workout failed to adhere to safe exercise principles, was not specifically designed for lacrosse training, and did not include the necessary acclimatization protocols to prevent injury.

Participants were not aware of the intensity or the number of repetitions needed in advance. Several accounts indicated that students completed 250 burpees along with other exercises during a 75-minute session. Although 40% of athletes finished the workout as prescribed, many reported significant soreness, and instances of exertional rhabdomyolysis—characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue, which can result in kidney damage—were observed in the days that followed.

Officials at Tufts recognized the findings, highlighting the importance of more rigorous workout vetting and enhanced emergency preparedness. "Understanding the factors that contributed to this situation is essential, and we must implement improved and safer training practices for our student-athletes," stated Tufts President Sunil Kumar and Athletics Director John Morris.

All affected students have since recovered and returned to regular activity, despite the severity of their injuries. The Navy SEAL involved chose not to participate in the interview for the review, and the university has not revealed his identity.

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