1. DEBBIE A. MCKNIGHT Athletic Trainer

3. Athletic Trainers Athletic trainers help athletes recover from or avoid injury They evaluate, advise, and treat athletes and help them maintain peak physical fitness for participation in athletic competition.

4. Duties  Athletic trainers may render first aid to injured players, and/or treat chronic minor injuries and related disabilities to maintain athletes’ performances.  They may prescribe routine and corrective exercises to  strengthen muscles,  recommend special diets,  and give massages.

5. Duties Athletic trainers work closely with team physicians, coaches and athletes to ensure that peak performance is reached as safely and as quickly as possible after an injury has been sustained. They also help athletes prevent injuries in their chosen sport.

6. Area of Specialization- AT Generalist Athletic trainers may specialize in certain populations (for example, children or adults) or in particular sports like football or basketball.

7. WORKING ENVIROMENT Athletic trainers may work in Gyms schools, colleges, universities, Military professional sports organizations, or sports medicine clinics.

8. LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION To work as an athletic trainer in Texas, you have to pass a state licensing examination. Additionally, all athletic trainers must hold a current certification in adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or current certification for emergency medical services EMT with the Texas Department of State Health Services.

9. Length of Training To work in Texas, athletic trainer positions require at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic program through the Commission of Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHP). Undergraduate programs must include completion of an apprenticeship program in a university sports program of at least 1800 clock hours.

10. Education Programs in the Area University of Texas Austin-BS Texas State University in San Marcos-BS,MS University of Incarnate Word-BS Texas Lutheran University-BS UTSA-BS Tyler JR College-AS

11. Job Outlook and Salaries Job Outlook Starting 39,458 5 years 48,440 10+ years 58,598

12. Professional Associations http://www.apta.org http://www.tpta.org