VYPE U: The Superheroes Behind Every Sport - An Inside Look Into The TWCP Sports Medicine Program
During athletic events and tournaments, College Park fans pack into the stands and get ready to cheer on the Cavs to a victorious win. Little do they know that down on the field a group of talented students are preparing for their prospective futures as sports trainers.
The College Park Sports Medicine Program is run by head trainer, Jason McDonald and consists of 26 skillful students. These individuals spend class time, afternoons, and weekends learning skills about the sports medicine profession. Students get the opportunity to learn about wound care, emergency awareness, and CPR while applying these skills to real situations in a variety of sports.
Although the sports medicine program attends events during after school hours, students are also enrolled in a class period depending on their experience. First period consists of basic skills and training for new team members. Fifth period is for students who have been in the program for at least two years and they are responsible for supporting many varsity sports including football. Seventh period is for second year students and they focus on anatomy and physiology as well as assist multiple junior varsity sports teams.
Through the program, student-trainers are able to work with local physicians and earn valuable medical experience that can help succeed in the future. Students also have the opportunity to earn credits, a varsity letterman jacket, and possibly scholarships for the achievements.
"For students interested in majoring in Kinesiology in the future, this is a great program to be apart of. You get a head start for your career and it is a great foundation for college." Avery Endicott said.
Members of the sports medicine program are required to assist with football practices and games throughout the season but then are assigned to support another sport in the winter and spring season. These sports include basketball, soccer, swimming, water polo, tennis, wrestling, softball, baseball, and track. Trainers attend at least three practices or games after school each week.
"My favorite sport to assist is Girls Basketball because through the program I have made great relationships with the players and coaches." Kyndall Matlock said.
CP Sports Medicine trainers support all levels of sports on campus including freshmen, sophomore, junior varsity, and varsity teams. At all sporting events, at least one trainer is present and on standby for any emergency that could occur.
Through the sports medicine team, members are able to connect with the players on and off the field and help support them through injuries and rehabilitation. This helps to create a strong support system through CP Athletics.
"My favorite part about the student-trainers program is the bonds I have made with other trainers, students, and coaches in the CP community." Corina Alfaro said.