Behind every practice and game, the student athletic trainers of the Poly Athletics Department work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep teams running safely. From wrapping injuries to assessing concussions, the trainers play a crucial role in Poly Athletics.
The athletic training staff includes both faculty athletic trainers and student assistant trainers, who help the program operate each day. Students interested in becoming an assistant trainer must apply to the Student Athletic Trainer Program for the fall, winter or spring athletic seasons. Assistant trainers wrap students’ feet and ankles, apply ice packs, set up equipment and assist the trainers with athlete care, helping keep athletes healthy throughout the season.
The most important day for assistant athletic trainers Grady Babcock, Isabella Heredia, Maggie Tsai and Olivia Dabiri is game day. When asked about the average gameday for assistant trainers, Coach Mikels contributed, “When they come in, they should look around and see what needs to be set up, what equipment needs to go out on the field, what athletes need help, what things they can do, so they’ve got to get checked off on certain things before they can actually start helping athletes.” It’s clear being an assistant trainer is no easy task.
Further, the skills gained through this program can extend far beyond just knowledge. Assistant trainer Olivia Dabiri shared why she joined the program: “I decided to join the trainers’ staff myself because I really want to pursue a career in the medical field when I’m older, and I knew this position would give me background knowledge in areas like anatomy, injury assessment, and patient care.” The assistant trainers program gives students hands-on exposure to sports medicine and teaches them how the body responds to injury, which can be especially valuable for students interested in healthcare careers.
Overall, the trainers and their assistants work as a tight-knit team. Through various practices they not only keep athletes healthy, but help Poly Athletics run smoothly every day. It’s clear that Poly wouldn’t be the same without their help, and we as a Poly community, need to give them a big thanks.
