Career Spotlight: How to Become an Athletic Trainer

Introduction to Our Baseball Careers Series

Welcome to our series dedicated to various careers within the realm of baseball! In these articles, we delve into the numerous thrilling roles that contribute to the sport of baseball. From the athletes competing on the field to the professionals operating behind the scenes, there exists a multitude of pathways to cultivate a career in baseball. Today, we are focusing on athletic trainers, essential experts who play a critical role in ensuring that players maintain their health and perform at their highest levels.

What Does an Athletic Trainer Do?

Athletic trainers are healthcare specialists who collaborate with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries involving muscles and bones. In the context of baseball, they are the individuals you observe rushing onto the field whenever a player sustains an injury. However, their responsibilities extend far beyond just providing immediate care in emergencies.

On a typical day, an athletic trainer may:

• Assess the injuries sustained by players
• Develop rehabilitation strategies for those who are injured
• Apply athletic tape to ankles, wrists, and various other body parts to avert injuries
• Suggest exercises designed to reinforce vulnerable areas
• Educate players on techniques to minimize the risk of injury
• Collaborate with physicians and physical therapists
• Maintain meticulous records of players' health status

Athletic trainers often serve as the first line of healthcare response for athletes following an injury. They must make swift, informed decisions about whether a player can safely re-enter the game or if additional medical intervention is necessary.

Education and Training Required

High School Preparation

For those aspiring to become athletic trainers, it's prudent to begin preparations during high school. Consider the following important steps:

• Concentrate on science courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy
• Excel in mathematics courses
• Enroll in health and physical education classes
• Consume literature concerning sports medicine and human anatomy regularly
• Participate in sports teams or volunteer within athletic programs
• Develop effective study habits

College Education

Following high school, attending college is crucial. Performing well academically is vital for gaining admission to a reputable athletic training program. Here’s what you will need:

• A bachelor's degree in athletic training or a closely related discipline
• Coursework covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition
• Supervised clinical experience with athletes

Advanced Requirements

To achieve certification as an athletic trainer, you must:

• Complete a master's degree from an accredited athletic training program
• Successfully pass the Board of Certification (BOC) examination
• Obtain a state license in the jurisdiction where you intend to work
• Engage in ongoing education to maintain your certification

Skills Needed for Success

In addition to formal education, athletic trainers should possess:

• Strong communication abilities
• The capacity to remain composed in urgent situations
• Proficient problem-solving skills
• A keen attention to detail
• Empathy for injured athletes
• Physical endurance to stand for extended periods

Career Outlook

The need for athletic trainers is on the rise. An increasing number of teams are recruiting full-time athletic trainers to ensure the well-being of their valuable players. Athletic trainers can find employment opportunities with professional sports teams, collegiate athletic departments, high schools, sports medicine clinics, or hospitals.

Conclusion

Embarking on a career as an athletic trainer necessitates a commitment to education and a sincere desire to assist athletes in achieving peak performance. By engaging in regular reading, performing well academically, and completing both undergraduate and graduate education, you can set the stage for this fulfilling career that places you at the forefront of baseball while positively impacting athletes' health and performance.