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We found a cool article from the Morning Sun on the history of athletic training education at CMU that we wanted to share.
The story starts in 1973, when Central Michigan University witnessed the birth of a minor course in athletic training, thanks to Ken Kopke. This seemingly modest beginning has, over the past half-century, evolved into one of the nation's leading athletic training programs.
A Brief History
The trajectory from trade to accredited profession started humbly. "People would major in subjects like history or math and often opt for athletic training as a secondary minor," shared Ron Sendre, an instrumental figure in the program's growth.
Indeed, the growth was far from linear. Sendre, who already introduced a minor in athletic training at Ball State University in 1972, saw the potential for a more comprehensive program.
When he pitched the idea for a full-blown major in 1976, Kopke, CMU's head Athletic Trainer, was immediately on board. Sendre recalls, “Kopke approached me and expressed his vision of establishing the United States' first major curriculum for athletic training at CMU.”
With support from key faculty members and the university senate's green light in 1979, the program's popularity soared. CMU's athletic training major began drawing students globally, outpacing established institutions like the University of Michigan and Indiana University.
Expanding Horizons
In the 1980s, the program's reach was further broadened when Sendre and Kopke initiated Athletic Training Services. This venture, funded by a Michigan state grant, aimed to integrate Athletic Trainers within industrial settings, focusing on the automotive sector.
The project not only enhanced workers' health and fitness but also proved economically advantageous for companies.
However, the academic sphere still beckoned. Sendre, reminiscing about his return to CMU, said, "I'm incredibly proud of our graduates and their invaluable contributions to both the profession and the athletes they serve."
Alumni Impact
Greg Zimmerman, an alumnus from the program’s early years, serves as a testament to its excellence.
Zimmerman, who transitioned from uncertainty about his career path to becoming the associate dean of the Herbert H. and Grace A.
Dow College of Health Professions, credits CMU's robust program for laying the foundation of his success.
"Starting from the classroom and labs, the hands-on experience with athletes, and the continuous mentorship, the program ensured holistic development," Zimmerman stated.
Legacy and Leadership
Under the leadership of Rene Shingles, CMU's athletic training program carved a unique niche. Shingles, who started her journey in athletic training due to a high school injury, dedicated her career to both education and enhancing cultural competency within sports medicine.
Her groundbreaking work includes co-authoring "Cultural Competence in Sports Medicine," the first book of its kind. Shingles' contributions to the field were also recognized nationally when she became the first African American woman inducted into the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Hall of Fame.
The Next Chapter
CMU continues to lead the way. In 2020, responding to changing industry demands, the university launched a 3+2 program. This initiative allows students to secure both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in athletic training in a span of five years. Blaine Long, the current program director, believes this expansion, coupled with high school level coursework, further cements CMU's preeminence in the field.
Rene Shingles concludes, "With state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional faculty, and a commitment to research, CMU's athletic training program is unparalleled."
As the program crosses its 50-year milestone, its impact and legacy within sports medicine and athletic training are undeniably profound.
