Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Thank you's!

I just finished reading this month's issue of NATA News, and I have to say Jaimie Siegle and Ruth Riggan did fantastic jobs with their reports on both Capitol Hill Day and the Nomenclature issue. 
I think it is awesome that there are so many AT's out there willing to donate their precious time and effort to rally for us in Washington.  It seems as though the best way for our profession to push the envelope is through the PHYSICAL Act, and I hope that the legislation will move forward with this issue.  As a whole, I believe all of us AT's ultimately want one thing: safe and healthy athletes. 
A special thank you for all those AT's who took the survey that was sent out through NATA regarding “the name change” issue.  Because of you guys, the profession is armed with the knowledge it needs to move forward.  Although we will not be changing our profession's name in the near future, I think we have a better grasp on (1) state practice acts, (2) job conditions, (3) salary and reimbursement understanding.  Not only that, but according to the survey on public perception administered by MBA students at the University of Dallas, people actually know us and understand what it is we do!  Common misconceptions regarding our profession are quickly dissolving.  What exciting news! 
I, for one, think 2012 was an awesome year for Athletic Trainers, and I cannot wait to see how the rest of 2013 will turn out.  Thank you again to everyone for all of your hard work, keep it up! 
On a side note, if you have not read the article about NATA's new "Safe Sports School Award," I suggest you do that.  You can learn more or start the application process for your school by contacting NATA's Strategic Activities Department at sad@nata.org

Monday, April 15, 2013

AT's needed!!

The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer event will be in Houston this coming weekend, April 20-21st and we are in need of more Athletic Trainer’s! If you are able to volunteer a day, afternoon, morning, or even a few hours of your time Saturday or Sunday to help with the Medical Crew please email me as soon as possible! A small group of us have volunteered for the last 5 years and we would love to expand the Athletic Trainer involvement on the route and at the medical village. The walker’s/participants know who Athletic Trainers are and continually seek us out to help fix their blisters and various orthopedic injuries year after year. J
We will be located at various “rest stops” along the route in the downtown area over the two days. I will provide you with the address/location of the rest stops upon contact. We mainly provide care for blisters, abrasions, occasional dehydration, minor strains and sprains. Avon will provide various medical supplies, however you might want to bring your scissors and kit.
If you are interested in helping out please don’t hesitate to email me! juliesuits@sheldonisd.com