As some may know, athletic trainers are highly needed in the job market as of right now due to the amount of trainers that ended up leaving because of COVID. So there’s a shortage across the country at almost every university for athletic trainers. Also people are not really aware of the inside of what being an athletic trainer is and only know about the basics such as what they see. My “Athletic Trainer Open House Event” at Norfolk State University will tackle all of these challenges. This event will be in March since that is the National Athletic Training month, which spreads awareness about the works of athletic training. My event will be welcomed to all students, faculty, and staff to interact with one another on the inside look of being an athletic trainer and how they service student athletes. This is an opportunity for anyone to come out and learn the roles athletic trainers play on an athletes well being and sports medicine.
Activities:
Informative Stations: People will be able to interact at these informative stations with hands-on demonstrations. Showcasing the various tasks athletic trainers forgo on a daily basis to keep the athletes in good shape for their desired sport. Such as taping and bracing methods, injury assessments, rehab processes, and emergency response techniques. This will allow attendees to learn basic skills from professional athletic trainers.
Educational Workshops: Workshops led by professional athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals describing the amount of observation hours needed, first aid/CPR training, how to get licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine, and sports nutrition. This will allow attendees to get the inside scoop on ATC credentials and tips and tricks on becoming an AT. As well as the reality of what it’s like becoming an athletic trainer and not what is just shown on the field.
Testimonies from Athletes: Invitation to former or current athletes that have played a sport at NSU to explain how an athletic trainer has benefitted their lives. They can share their detailed experiences of how it bettered their well-being, athletic performance, and how an AT has prevented them from potential injuries.
Q&A Session: Attendees will ask any questions they have for athletic trainers regarding anything such as requirements, job opportunities, the duties of this career path, and any advice for someone becoming an AT. So they can get first hand answers or opportunities from someone who does this kind of work on a daily basis.
Refreshments & Giveaways: Food and drinks will be provided coupled with t-shirts, pamphlets, and drawstring bags as a thank you for all attendees for coming out and interacting at the event.
Networking: Sports medicine professionals and athletic trainers will be open to networking opportunities such as internships, careers, and mentorships for anyone trying to pursue a career in athletic training or wanting to learn more about it.
Informational Booths: Booths will be set up with information for resources on athletic training programs, organizations in need of AT’s, and further information that will be helpful to any future AT’s.
This flyer will be posted on the NSU Athletics Instagram page, discussed in any classes pertaining to sports medicine/athletic training, and posted around campus (especially the athletic department) to promote this event and have people come out.