Jack of All Trades: Jessika Hunt’s 19-Year Journey in Athletic Training at UC Riverside

For nearly two decades, Jessika Hunt has been a steady presence behind the scenes at the University of California, Riverside—helping athletes stay healthy, recover, and perform at their best.

Hunt, who began as an assistant Athletic Trainer 19 years ago, now serves as the head Athletic Trainer and works primarily with the men’s basketball program. Over the years, she has supported nearly every sport on campus, embracing the wide-ranging responsibilities that define the profession.

“I joke around that an Athletic Trainer is a jack of all trades,” Hunt said. “We do a little bit of everything… injury prevention, evaluations, rehab, nutrition, mental health—we’re kind of like a case manager mixed with healthcare providers.”

That all-encompassing role requires constant coordination and teamwork. Hunt works closely with team physicians, fellow Athletic Trainers, and staff to ensure athletes receive consistent care, even when schedules and travel demands shift.

“If one of my students isn’t traveling… we all step in,” she said. “We work collectively to make sure things run smoothly.”

From taping and treatment before practice to monitoring workouts and managing post-practice recovery, Hunt’s days are full. In the off-season, she shifts focus to administrative work like insurance and long-term planning.

Looking ahead, Hunt hopes to see expanded resources at UCR, including more staff and support services to provide a truly holistic approach to athlete care—further strengthening both performance and campus pride. Read more here!