ATHLETIC TRAINER


Athletic trainers help the physically active avoid injuries associated with sports. Their job responsibilities include managing, recognizing, treating, rehabilitating and minimizing sports injuries. The athletic trainer works under the direction of a team physician and is an important member of the athletic healthcare team. Typical job functions may include, but are not limited to: preparing the athlete by taping, bandaging, wrapping and bracing, determining if athlete needs medical treatments, developing programs for conditioning and rehabilitation, administering first aid, supervising diets and educating athletes about good health habits. The demand for athletic trainers is growing rapidly due to a substantial increase in recreational and competitive athletics. Teaching in a school setting may also be required of the athletic trainer.

Education

A four-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university is required. There are two academic routes one may take to become an athletic trainer. First, one may be a graduate of an entry-level accredited curriculum, completed in no less than two calendar years. The program must include 80 hours of athletic training experience under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer. Currently, Eastern Kentucky University offers the only entry-level accredited program in Kentucky. The second academic route is that of internship. One must be a graduate of an athletic training program meeting the course requirements as set forth by the National Athletic Trainers' Association and Kentucky certification and must document at least 1500 hours of athletic training experience under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer in no less than two calendar years. Following both routes of academic preparation, one is eligible to take the national and/or Kentucky's state athletic trainer certification examination(s).

Registration/Certification/Licensure

After graduating from an accredited school and completing internship requirements you must pass a certification exam given by the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification (NATABOC) in order to be certified. Athletic training is regulated by The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure.

Salary

$25,600-33,500

Employment Opportunities

Athletic trainers may work in schools, universities, colleges, professional athletic organizations, sports medicine clinics, corporate health programs, health clubs, athletic training programs, rehabilitation clinics and industrial health programs.

Programs

Asbury College, Dept. of Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Athletics (859) 858-3511
Eastern Kentucky University, Athletic Training Program (859) 622-1887
Morehead University, Dept. of Health & Physical Education & Recreation (606) 783-2180
Murray State University, Dept. of Health & Physical Education & Recreation (270) 762-6188
Thomas More College, Dept. of Biology (859) 341-5800
Transylvania University, Physical Education Dept. (859) 233-8202
University of Louisville, Dept. of Health Promotion, Physical Education and Sport Studies  (502) 852-6645
Western Kentucky University, Dept. of Physical Education & Recreation (270) 745-3347

Professional Association

National Athletic Trainer's Association, Inc.
2952 Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX 75247
(214) 637-6282
 

Last updated:  May 30, 2001