WHY WE SUPPORT THE #ACLpledge
The ACL injury crisis is real, especially for our teen athletes. But countering it doesn’t require new research; it just takes direction. You’re here because you care, and this blog will walk you through exactly how you can help, using trusted, expert-backed resources. Research shows that up to 80% of non-contact ACL injuries can be prevented through simple, proven exercises known as neuromuscular training (NMT).
As a proud partner of the Aspen Institute, Stack Sports is proud to support the National ACL Injury Coalition and the #ACLpledge campaign. Together, we’re committed to raising awareness, rallying leaders, and giving athletes the tools they need to stay active for life. We are here to help answer all of your questions on how you can join in the movement.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
ACL injuries are rising at an alarming rate in youth sports, especially among girls. These injuries can sideline athletes for seasons, require costly surgeries, and increase the risk of early arthritis. But here’s the good news: research shows that 50–80% of non-contact ACL injuries can be prevented with a proven solution—neuromuscular training (NMT).
The National ACL Injury Coalition, created by the Aspen Institute and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), is leading a multiyear effort to reduce injuries and keep athletes active for life.
Their message is simple: we can do better, and we already know how.
👉 Explore the Field Guide to Reducing Serious Knee Injuries
WHAT IS THE #ACLpledge?
The #ACLpledge is a national campaign to rally coaches, parents, athletes, administrators, and community leaders around one critical goal: reducing ACL injuries in athletes so they can stay in the game for life.
The steps to pledge are simple:
- Sign the ACL Pledge — it takes less than five minutes.
- Take Action — choose one or more steps that fit your role.
- Share your commitment using #ACLpledge on social media, and tag us on Instagram: @aspenprojectplay | Twitter/X: @AspenInstSports | Linkedin: @AspenInstSports
The goal: 10,000 pledges by 2027.
HOW CAN I TAKE ACTION?
Whether you’re a coach, parent, athlete, or organizational leader, there are simple ways to get involved.
- Download & Share: Use the How You Can Take Action Against the ACL Crisis one-sheeter to walk through each step of the pledge.
- Use Your Voice: Follow, like, and share posts from Aspen Institute Sports & Society Instagram: @aspenprojectplay | Twitter/X: @AspenInstSports | LinkedIn: @AspenInstSports
- Tap Into Tools: Access the ACL Pledge Media Toolkit (graphics, email templates, suggested copy, hashtags) to spread awareness in your network.
- Learn & Lead: Download and share the Field Guide to Reducing Serious Knee Injuries, a practical resource for schools, clubs, and coaches.
- Train Smarter: Try RIIP Reps, a free app with 7-minute, no-equipment sessions designed to reduce injury risk.
SPREAD THE WORD
A huge part of the #ACLpledge campaign is amplifying the message online. You can help raise awareness by following the coalition’s accounts, sharing posts, or using the official hashtag in your own content.
Check Out Our Official Campaign Handles
Join the Conversation
- Repost coalition launch posts and campaign graphics (available in the Media Toolkit)
- Tag official handles when you share your commitment
- Use the hashtag #ACLpledge to connect with the wider movement
FOR ORGANIZATIONS & PARTNERSHIPS
Administrators, athletic directors, club leaders, and coaches play a crucial role. The coalition has developed a comprehensive toolkit with policies, incentives, and ready-to-use resources to help programs integrate NMT into daily practice. These tools make it easier to build safer, smarter sports environments for athletes at every level.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
The ACL injury crisis is preventable, and your leadership is crucial. By signing and sharing the pledge, downloading resources, and spreading the word, you’ll help athletes move better, play safer, and stay in the game for life.
