An injury to the chest may not be as common as a sprained ankle, but chest injuries can cause very serious harm.  Blunt force trauma (think getting hit by hard ball, puck or even a person) to the chest or abdomen can lead to internal harm.  That is why you need to make sure your young athlete always wears proper protective equipment, as well as be aware of the signs and symptoms that might signify a serious chest or abdominal injury.