From Injury to MLS: How AT Danny Rivas Found His True 'Football' and His Purpose

Danny Rivas’ journey into athletic training began the way many do...  with an injury. After dislocating his ankle playing high school basketball in Queens, New York, he was introduced to sports medicine for the first time. Inspired by his physical therapist, he found his calling.

Rivas earned his bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Western Carolina University, a master’s in kinesiology and exercise science from the University of West Alabama, and later completed his Doctor of Athletic Training at Moravian University.

Initially, he believed his future was in American football, until soccer changed everything.

“I love this story, because I thought I wanted to work in American football, then I found out I was looking for the wrong football,” Rivas said. Assigned to men’s soccer in graduate school, he found cultural connection and belonging. “I loved the inclusivity… I just loved how diverse it was. This was one of the first times I felt at home around other Hispanic people.”

With family roots in El Salvador and fluency in Spanish, Rivas found purpose in serving diverse athletes.

“It just felt right,” he said. “I wanted to chase this and see how far it could go.”

Now entering his fourth season with the New England Revolution as assistant athletic trainer and rehab coordinator, Rivas plays a critical role on and off the pitch. His bilingual skills strengthen trust with players navigating injury far from home.

Reflecting on his work, Rivas emphasized the deeper responsibility Athletic Trainers carry.

“There is such a psychological element to what we do,” he said. “People put professional athletes on a pedestal, but they’re human, too… It’s all intertwined.”

From a high school setback to MLS sidelines, Rivas’ story is proof that Athletic Trainers impact far more than recovery... they shape lives. Read the full story here!