Unsung Heroes of Collegiate Athletics

Happy National Athletic Trainer Month!! I am a few days late, but this blog is in honor of the unsung heroes of college athletics. Most people do not know this, but March 1st is National Athletic Trainer Day and let me tell you firsthand that ATs deserve way more than just one day of appreciation.

After 18 years of your mom or dad helping you with your health, suddenly you are on your own, and telling strangers your very personal medical information. It is a strange feeling knowing that a persons job is to know everything that is going on with your body, even when you don't know what is going on with your body. Student-athletes have to hand over that control, but if you know what is good for you than you will put your trust in your trainers.

Throughout my athletic career, I have had a lot of trainers, but college trainers do so much more than just keep athletes bodies healthy. My relationship with my college trainers got me through so much. When I was sick they were there. If I needed to talk to someone, they were there. Through every painful injury, they were always there. I know it was their job, but they always went far and beyond the call of duty. If you have ever had a serious injury than you know what I am talking about.

Even more than your trust you will give them the best treatment. Remember they are there to help you, but you are lucky to have them. I can not tell you how mad I got when I saw an athlete treating their trainer poorly. Be respectful and thank your athletic trainer, because I can guarantee you that there were days they dreaded coming in and wrapping up your stinky feet. They may have hated it, but they still did it.

College Athletic Trainers are truly the backbone of any team and they do not get the credit they deserve. So before your trainer asks you how they are feeling tomorrow, maybe you can ask them how they are doing. Check in on them like they have always checked on you. Trust me, being close to your athletic trainer will take you a very far way in athletics.