Introduction

It is not surprising to see professionals in Physical Education and Athletics who have become specialists in many different aspects of their fields. Young people who are interested in professions in Physical Education should be aware of this move toward specialization. These areas of specialization include Athletic Training, cardiac rehabilitation, adapted physical education, corporate fitness, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sport psychology.

With the growth of Sport Medicine, it seems logical that specialists who are oriented toward Physical Education and Athletics would also be demand. Athletic Training is one aspect of sports medicine that has developed as an important allied health care profession which deals primarily with the prevention and care of athletic injuries. Many advances have been made by the National Athletic Trainer's Association, Inc. since it's inception (1950). With even greater emphasis on health and fitness, the field of Athletic Training has benefited from the opening of new avenues and allowing Athletic Trainers to service a larger population.

If you are thinking of a career in Athletic Training and/or Sports Medicine, have an interest in medicine and athletics, you are energetic and self-motivated, Montclair State University may be the place for you to begin exploring a career suitable for your needs.

Montclair State University offers students the opportunity to follow an internship route towards NATABOC certification. Students may choose to major in a number of topics areas. Combining athletic training education with teacher education is suggested, but not required.

Montclair State University currently offers students the opportunity to follow an internship route towards NATABOC certification. Students may choose to major in a number of topics areas. Combining Athletic Training education with teacher education is suggested, but not required.

The Montclair State student Athletic Trainers are vital to the success of the Intercollegiate Athletic Department. Student athletic trainers extended Athletic Training care far beyond the capacity of the staff Athletic Trainers. There are over 500 athletes participating at Montclair - one or two people cannot provide the appropriate care for all the student athletes of all the sports with quality, effective, and efficient athletic care.

Many times the work will seem unrewarding and thankless, but student athletic trainers are greatly appreciated by the athletes, coaches, and administrators. They may not tell you often, or recognize it themselves, but I guarantee that they appreciate your efforts. They would miss you if you were not around! So take pride in yourself, your efforts, and the field of athletic training. I take pride in you and what you learn at MSU. Whether you take the NATA exam or not I will continue to take pride in you when you leave MSU and join the ranks of employed MSU Athletic Training Alumni.

Athletic Trainers- A necessity, not a luxury!

Author: Nina Gina, MSU Head Athletic Trainer 1980-1984

Edited: John Davis, MSU Head Athletic Trainer 1984-present

Montclair State University is planning to make the move to a curriculum-based program in the future. Plans are being developed to put this in place in the next few years. Contact John Davis for further up-to-date details.

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