Alex joined the athletic training staff, here, at The University of Oklahoma as a result of being an athletic trainer in high school. It is something he
truly enjoyed doing which directly affected his decision to join the athletic training program. Not only does he get to keep doing what he loves as an athletic trainer, also, Alex gets the job experience now rather than later, which ultimately helps his future in this field of work.
“It is essential that an understanding is kept between the athletic trainers” when they are on the job. Communication plays a big role in this co culture. Alex claims because of the demanding schedule athletic training poses, most of the communication is done in person. Closely behind in second is texting, cell phone, then email.
Like many groups, the athletic trainers share many common values. Alex explained that the “group bonds just like any other sports team do.” The athletic trainers have become closer the more time spent together. A few of the values the athletic trainers share are consistent, hard work. Alex explains that as a team the athletic trainers take much pride in their work.
While the Athletic trainers value many resources and have a large list of important things to pursue, a few of the things Alex mentioned as being important were the communication, constant training, and most of all the athletes. These were a few things that Alex mentioned that struck me as being symbolic to the athletic training program.
When talking to Alex about the everyday routines done in the training room he assured me that almost never does the athletic training group lose control of a situation. He explained to me “there was not much, if anything, that the group does that he has a problem with.” The group has their everyday routines and they all love being there to participate within the group.
In five years, Alex sees himself still “in the Athletic training field; except, hopefully at a larger program working with some of the top athletes in the world.” While there is a lot to look forward to in the near future Alex enjoys the consistent work that the athletic trainers produce every day.
Athletic trainers seek to help avoid expensive and unnecessary medical treatment and ultimately help to eliminate any disruption to a person’s life. The reason the job seems so simple and routine is because the athletic trainers are working hard behind the scenes. Their work contributes to the continued health of all of our athletes. Athletic trainers work side by side with one another to get the athletes back on their feet and keep them on the move. Athletic training is a rewarding occupation that offers great experience. The field combines hands on physical therapy and sports medicine to create a fun, yet serious work environment for students to gain athletic training understanding.