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We like to share what it's like for Athletic Trainers to work in various settings and found a cool podcast from Illinois State University. They have interviewed school alumni and most recently talked with Kelly Rhoades.
She's an assistant Athletic Trainer in Major League Baseball (MLB) and is making her debut this spring for the Detroit Tigers.
In an engaging episode of Redbird Buzz, Rhoades shares her inspiring journey from Illinois State University to a groundbreaking role in MLB, emphasizing the passion and dedication that fueled her climb.
Hailing from Poplar Grove, Illinois, Rhoades reflects on her entry into the world of athletic training, recalling her initial inspiration:
"I was introduced to it through gymnastics... my gymnastics coach was also an Athletic Trainer."
This early exposure sparked a determination in Rhoades, leading her to pursue athletic training as a career.
"I have always been the kind of personality to set my sights on something and not really give up until I've accomplished it."
Rhoades's career trajectory with the Arizona Diamondbacks saw her making history as the organization's first female athletic trainer in 2016, a milestone she approached with humility and focus:
"I would never say that my goal was to be the first female anything... I just wanted to be a part of the team."
Over nearly a decade, she advanced from working with Rookie Ball to becoming a medical coordinator, a journey marked by growth and learning.
Discussing her move to the Tigers, Rhoades shared:
"It's still a bit surreal... I made the move, not lightly. I loved the Diamondbacks... The head Athletic Trainer with the Detroit Tigers was actually a mentor to me at the Diamondbacks."
This connection made the transition smoother and underscored the importance of mentorship in her career.
Rhoades also highlighted the evolving landscape for women in sports medicine within baseball:
"There are trends. A lot of organizations are thinking about that in their hiring process, which I think is great."
Her experience underscores the industry's gradual shift towards inclusivity and recognition of talent, irrespective of gender.
On advice to aspiring female athletic trainers, Rhoades offers words of encouragement:
"There are more supporters than there are critics... if you cross that one critic, don't put too much weight on it."
She also emphasizes the significance of professionalism in a male-dominated field:
"Really think about professionalism and what that means to you."
As she looks forward to her first MLB season with the Tigers, Rhoades is excited about the opportunities and challenges ahead:
"It feels like a sport to me. It feels like puzzles all day long... The camaraderie, and being a part of a team in there for the wins and losses, all of it. I just love it."
Kelly Rhoades' journey from an ambitious student at Illinois State University to making her mark in MLB is a testament to her resilience, expertise, and pioneering spirit.
Her story is not only an inspiration to women but also a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of forging one's own path.
Listen to her podcast when you get a chance!
