Tom R. Campbell PhD, LAT, ATC

“Insight into an Athletic Trainer”

The professional I chose to interview was doctor and Athletic Trainer Mr. Campbell. Dr. Thomas R Campbell is currently employed by the ODU College of Health Sciences and holds the title of “Clinical Assistant Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences” 

Dr. Campbell’s journey started when the combination of his athletic background and relations with his high school Athletic Trainer made him decide to pursue Athletic Training. Following high school Dr. Campbell attended university majoring in Kinesiology, gained his certification as an Athletic Trainer at a university located in western Virginia and then finally returned to school to earn his PhD in Kinesiology.  Dr. Campbell defines the responsibilities of Athletic Trainers as a health care provider that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of injuries while simultaneously building relationships with their clients and peers. The most challenging aspect of the Dr. Campbell’s career was witnessing clients struggle physically and mentally, particularly in terms of their athletic identity. What surprised Dr. Campbell throughout his career is the misunderstanding of Athletic Trainers, he said that he has encountered many people who do not know what an athletic trainer is or completely misunderstand their responsibilities.

On a personal note, what resonated with me the most from the interview was seeing how meaningful the relationships were that Dr. Campbell built between his clients. As he spoke of the responsibilities of an Athletic Trainer he put a heavy emphasis on the personal aspect of the career. He talked of the gratifying feeling of witnessing athletes stage a comeback from severe injuries and difficult times. His passion served as inspiration to me, sparking anticipation for encountering similar meaningful experiences in the future of my career.