Spotlight: Athletic Training

What are the qualifications of an athletic trainer?

Athletic trainers must obtain a bachelor’s of science degree from an approved and accredited athletic training curriculum program. This degree includes basic courses in human anatomy, exercise physiology, basic first aid, biomechanics, and nutrition. The degree program also includes more specialized courses in injury prevention & management, injury evaluation & assessment, pharmacology, risk management, and therapeutic modalities.

 

In order to be able to practice as a licensed and/or certified athletic trainer, individuals must sit for their state licensure exam and/or national certification exam after completing their degree. Once they pass these exams, they are allowed to use the credentials LAT (state) or ATC (national), which signifies them as holding all the education and training necessary to perform the role of athletic trainer.

 

What are the duties & responsibilities of an athletic trainer?

In an effort to provide the best quality health care to the individuals they serve, athletic trainers perform a wide array of duties and responsibilities. The primary duties of the athletic trainer revolve around the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic related injuries. These include coordination of pre-participation physical exams, selection of protective equipment, daily coverage of practices and games, application of various therapeutic modalities, and designing & implementing injury-specific rehabilitation programs.

 

In addition to the above mentioned tasks, athletic trainers also oversee and perform a variety of administrative duties. These duties include budget allocation, ordering of supplies and equipment, record keeping, and coordination of coverage for daily practices and games.

 

 

 

 

Jada Connally, MEd, LAT, OPE-C, MFD-C

Athletic Trainer

 

Jada Connally attended Southern Arkansas University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in athletic training. She then attended Stephen F. Austin University where she pursued her Master of Science in exercise science with a concentration in performance enhancement and injury prevention. She has been a licensed athletic trainer since 2008. 

 

Contact Information:

jconnally@trinitymidland.org