At this morning’s presentation, athletic trainer Dino Angelopoulus highlighted the critical role certified athletic trainers play in keeping student-athletes safe—and why schools in our North Country communities need greater access to them.
Unlike personal trainers, certified athletic trainers are licensed allied healthcare professionals. They bridge the gap between initial injury, medical evaluation, rehabilitation, and a safe return to play. During regular school hours, nurses care for students; however, during afternoon practices and games, an athletic trainer is often the only medical provider on-site when an emergency occurs.
Key takeaways from the discussion: 1) Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) Save Lives: Having licensed staff who regularly rehearse EAPs and know the exact location of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can be the difference between life and death in sudden cardiac arrest or traumatic incidents. 2) Injury Prevention & Rehab: Athletic trainers address everything from concussion protocols and joint injuries to chronic overuse, helping young athletes strengthen opposing muscle groups to avoid re-injury. 3) Proactive Screenings: Proactive heart health initiatives, such as pre-participation EKG screenings, are helping detect underlying cardiac risks before students step onto the field.
Keeping kids safe in sports takes a coordinated team of coaches, healthcare professionals, and school administrators.
