Athletic training program offers valuable insight

SCC students get the chance to earn their Athletic Training Certificate after only four years of hands-on experience.

Each semester, they are given the opportunity to work side by side with the school’s athletic trainers, as well as manage the needs of all Artichoke sports teams.

Gregg Schroeder, associate athletic trainer for SCC said, “We have developed a 2+2 program with NAU for students to matriculate on to a four-year university. This can be completed with two years here, one year on campus at NAU, and a senior rotation at any number of approved venues in the state.”

While spending 20 hours per week in the athletic training room, students learn first aid, how to tape, how to bandage, rehabilitation and evaluation skills.

“Because of the unique opportunities a community college can offer, students will often times have more experience after two years here, as opposed to starting at NAU and having two years there,” said Schroeder.

He added that, “We allow our students to wrap, tape, and even travel with a team as soon as we feel comfortable with them.”

Jen Solich, a student at Scottsdale Community College and current head athletic training student showed her interest in the program after visiting the athletic training room several times during her past softball seasons.

“I think this program has helped me move forward not only in the learning process of my future career, but also as a person,” said Solich. “I have learned more in one semester working here than I have in two years taking classes.”

Solich also said, “We all want to succeed, and want to help each other succeed; it’s more one-on-one and we can ask a lot more questions.”

Certified Athletic Trainers (ATCs) not only prevent and treat the injuries of athletic individuals, but they also manage the chaotic epidemics that occur when an injury takes place.

“When an injury occurs we put our emergency actions into play to help calm the scene for the athlete, teammates, coaches, and even parents and fans,” said Tony Neighbors, head athletic trainer for SCC.

“One unique thing about being an athletic trainer versus, say, a physical therapist is that we see the injury from its genesis,” said Neighbors. “We help the athlete deal with the emotions of their season and future being affected.”

There is some stress involved with being an athletic trainer; they consult with physicians as well as with the athletes to discuss and administer treatments. ATC’s are responsible for their clients’ health and are sometimes forced to make quick decisions that could affect their athletes’ career.

“An athlete who can’t play the sport they have been participating in since they were little goes through the same emotional experience as one would with a death in the family,” said Neighbors.