Athletic Trainer Spotlight on Maddie Tobler at UNI

At just 25 years old, Miami University graduate Maddie Tobler has carved a notable path in the field of athletic training.

Beginning her journey in high school, Tobler's passion for athletic training was ignited when she started working as a trainer at Stevenson High School during her sophomore year. Her commitment to the profession remained through college and graduate school, never once straying from her chosen major.

Following graduation, Tobler secured a position at the University of Dubuque. After a year, she found her way to the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), where she initially worked with the football team.

In the spring of 2023, an interim opportunity arose with the track and field staff. Tobler stepped into the role, and it quickly became apparent that she was a perfect fit, leading to a permanent position.

"The environment of the team and the support I have from the coaches and [Athletic Trainer] Boone Tomlinson is what gets me out of bed in the morning."

Embracing the role of an "older sister," she finds joy in sharing experiences of "tea" (gossip) and celebrating both academic and athletic successes with her athletes.

Yet, the job isn't without challenges. Tobler often witnesses her athletes at their lowest points, dealing with season-ending injuries or persistent ailments.

"Seeing athletes [at their lows] and then watching them come back and win or at least be very competitive in their events is very, very cool for me, and makes me very excited."

Administrative burdens also weigh heavy. Tobler acknowledged the "pile-on days" when multiple injuries occur simultaneously:

"Athletic Trainers are notoriously overworked and underpaid… burnout is a really big thing that can happen.."

Despite these hurdles, she maintains that the positives outweigh the negatives, fueling her motivation each day.

One of Tobler's most cherished memories isn't tied to a major victory but to a modest tune-up meet in Wisconsin during the past spring.

"The weather was super nice… we didn’t have a huge squad with us… everyone was so happy and in such a good mood. It was so relaxing and one of the first times I ever felt like a part of the team."

This sentiment was echoed when she informed the coaches of her permanent position, receiving their enthusiastic support.

Looking ahead, Tobler intends to remain at UNI, though she aspires to one day work with a professional sports team and pursue a Physician Assistant degree when her athletic training days conclude.

For now, she eagerly anticipates continuing her work with the UNI track and field team—a group fortunate to have her dedication and expertise! Read the full story here!