I’m very proud to be a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC). Many fellow ATCs share my passion for the profession and are dedicated to help athletes achieve. Here’s a brief introduction to what we do, the role of the Athletic Trainer in your high school, and why you shouldn’t wait for an injury to get better acquainted.

Job Description
Certified Athletic Trainers are trained in emergency medicine, sports medicine, rehabilitation and exercise science. They have a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in athletic training education, which includes and intensive internship program as well as course work in the following areas:

• Risk Management and Injury Prevention
• Pathology of Injuries and Illnesses
• Orthopedic Clinical Examination and Diagnosis
• Medical Conditions and Disabilities
• Acute Care of Injuries and Illnesses
• Therapeutic Modalities
• Conditioning and Rehabilitative Exercise
• Pharmacology
• Psychosocial Intervention and Referral
• Nutritional Aspects of Injuries and Illnesses
• Health Care Administration
• Professional Development and Responsibility

Some ATCs go on to pursue additional degrees in fields such as physical therapy, business administration, education, research and nutrition (like yours truly).

ATCs work in a variety of settings with active individuals of all ages — from little league to corporate settings to college and professional athletics.

The Role of The High School ATC
High school athletic trainers are responsible for the daily welfare of all student-athletes. They are directly involved in all pre-activity stretching, taping and assessment of aches and pains (“what’s this thing on my toe?” or “my ankle hurts and I don’t know why”). They’re present at all home games and practices to provide support and give medical care in the event of an injury or emergency.

ATCs also play a “behind-the-scenes” role by helping to rehabilitate injured athletes and get them back to their sport. They work very closely with coaches, school nurses, doctors and physical therapists to help athletes get healthy and stay that way.

You may also find ATCs on the faculty. In school settings where I have worked, I have taught algebra, anatomy & physiology, health, and nutrition.

Getting to Know You
Both athletes and their parents should take the time to meet their school’s athletic trainer. Whether it’s a brief “hello” after practice or a quick visit to the training room (choose a low-traffic time, it can get a little crazy in there at the end of the school day) — your school ATC will be thrilled to meet you.

ATCs can provide valuable knowledge, support, and advice to athletes and parents about all kinds of sports related questions and concerns – not just injuries.

For more information, visit the National Athletic Trainers Association (www.nata.org)