Tarleton State Athletic Training Staff Take Top LSC Honor

One for the record!

 

Known for its family atmosphere, hard-working staff, and eager attitude, the Sports Medicine program at Tarleton State University has made history as its dedicated staff has been presented with the 2013 Lone Star Conference Athletic Training Staff of the Year Award. This prestigious award is granted to the top athletic training staff within the Lone Star Conference and 2013 marks a milestone as it is the first time TSU has been honored. The award is based on the staff’s hospitality toward visiting athletic trainers and teams, preparedness with supplies, equipment and services for athletic trainers and teams, preparedness for emergency situations, and care for injured athletes from visiting teams.  The honored faculty consists of Program Director, Dr. Steve Simpson along with three full-time athletic trainers, four graduate assistants, and over 50 Sports Medicine undergraduates.

“It’s a great honor to be recognized by the Lone Star Conference and our peers throughout the conference,” said Dr. Simpson. “There is a high standard of health care provided for the student-athletes in the LSC and we strive to continue this care.”   

The unity among the trainers and the athletes sets Tarleton’s program apart. When asked why sports medicine is important, Athletic Trainer Pedro Rodriguez explains that athletic training is more than simply treating and rehabilitating athletic injuries.

“Spectators do not see a lot of the behind-the-scenes time that is spent with our athletes. We develop friendships with our student athletes and we spend a great deal of time getting to know each other,” says Rodriguez. 

In addition to establishing relationships, the sports medicine staff/team works alongside other medical professionals such as general medical doctors, orthopedic surgeons, dentists, team physicians, and student health services to provide the best health care possible for the athletes. The staff’s dedication and passion for their work contribute to the thriving and successful program. Jacob Fain, another trainer on the faculty, describes the unrelenting work schedule.

“We are here when the players walk in each day and stay until they are gone for the evening. We work early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays. We are on the sidelines at each practice and game, but we do not get the attention that the players and coaches receive,” says Fain. “But we do it because we are in a service profession and it is our job and passion to take care of the athletes of all ages and skill levels.” 

In spite of the program’s success, Dr. Steve Simpson continues to look for ways to improve the program. Rachel Howell, an athletic trainer, speaks about Dr. Simpson’s impact on the program. “The Tarleton Sports Medicine program would not be where it is today without our program director Dr. Steve Simpson. He has spent the last 26 years building this program and continues to put in countless hours to make it better.” Rodriguez describes Simpson as “genuine, passionate, and a role model to the staff.”