While athletes get the spotlight on game day, the athletic trainers work hard behind the scenes to keep players healthy, and make sure teams can safely compete throughout the season. An athletic trainer treats injuries and helps athletes stay in peak condition.
Their role is similar to a combination of a nurse, physical therapist, and strength coach, and are responsible for taking care of athletes before injuries, treating injuries when they happen, and the recovery process afterwards.
“If somebody goes down in the middle of the football field we’re running out to get them. If somebody goes down on the basketball court we are the first ones there trying to see what’s wrong with them,” Head Athletic Trainer Melissa Rosenberger said. “But we also deal with chronic injuries, which happen over time. The track athletes that have the shin splints, the pulled hamstrings or a recurring injury.”
Athletic trainers also rehabilitate athletes to get back on track so they can return to their sport.
“If they sustained a sprained ankle and they went to the doctor’s and nothing is broken but they need rehab to get stronger, they can do that with us,” Rosenberger said.
The job of an athletic trainer is no easy task especially at a large school like North Penn. About 500-600 athletes participate in sports throughout the year, and the athletic trainers see about a quarter of them.
“Not all of the injuries are big, sometimes all they need is a bag of ice after a long run from the prior practice, but sometimes there are more serious injuries like an ACL tear, fractures, or concussions,” Rosenberger stated.
Being a former athlete also contributes to why Rosenberger loves the job so much.
“I did not want to work with the older person who might not want to walk again,” Rosenberger stated. “I wanted to help with the teenager who’s trying to get back for their senior season.”
Although they are not always in the spotlight, the athletic trainers play a crucial role. From responding to injuries during games or helping athletes recover and return, they work hard every day to keep athletes healthy. At North Penn, their dedication allows hundreds of athletes to stay on the field, court, and track.
