Heart and Soul of Georgia Southern: A Tribute to their Athletic Trainers

For National Athletic Training Month, we found that Georgia Southern University was doing something unique to celebrate their training staff and we had to share! 

They embarked on a special Q&A series, spotlighting their dedicated Athletic Trainers who work behind the scenes to ensure the health and well-being of student-athletes.

They still have more to come but we thought we'd share these five interviews. Through their insights, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and rewards inherent in their field.

Nick Sparacio, the Associate Head Athletic Trainer for football, highlights the unique commitment of athletic trainers, emphasizing their daily, hands-on care from injury onset to resolution. He cherishes helping athletes overcome adversity, witnessing their growth, and appreciates the diversity of challenges and teamwork in football.

"Athletic trainers are the only health profession to care for a patient every single day, often multiple times a day, from the time of injury to its resolution." His favorite aspect? "Helping people overcome adversity, pursue success, and achieve their goals."

Brandi Boston, assisting men's basketball, sheds light on the multifaceted roles athletic trainers play, far beyond what spectators see. She finds joy in the daily victories of her athletes, from post-injury game participation to the initial muscle activations post-surgery. Boston values the deep bonds formed through shared experiences and successes.

"From the outside looking in, people only see a fraction of what we do and are capable of doing every day. Celebrating the little wins with my athletes... remind me of my why every day."

Brandy Clouse, the Head Athletic Trainer and Deputy Athletics Director, emphasizes the broad spectrum of care athletic trainers provide, extending beyond physical injuries to include mental health support. She finds fulfillment in building lasting relationships with student-athletes, offering personalized rehabilitation tailored to their specific needs.

"We take care of the entire athlete, not just what everyone sees from the outside."

Kaela Cornelius, focusing on women's basketball, points out the multiple roles Athletic Trainers assume, especially on the road. She enjoys discovering new techniques to aid athletes in their recovery processes but notes the limitations on treatments like fire cupping due to state regulations.

"You fill in so many roles at once, like nutritionist, sport psych, and manager." 

Kaitlyn Meyers, working with women's tennis and soccer, highlights the holistic care athletic trainers provide, addressing both physical and mental health aspects. She values being part of her athletes' lives beyond sports, celebrating their academic and personal achievements. Meyers appreciates the cultural diversity of the tennis team and the hardworking ethos of the soccer team, which motivates her daily.

"Many people see athletic trainers as the people that take care of the athletes' physical well-being. I don't think people realize how much of a role we play in the care of their mental health." 

Together, these interviews paint a picture of a profession deeply intertwined with the fabric of athletics at Georgia Southern.

As most of us know, Athletic Trainers are not just healthcare providers but integral members of the athletic community, fostering an environment of support, recovery, and success. And we love the Georgia Southern is covering all their providers (they have more than 10, so more interviews are coming!) for NATM! 

Check them out here!