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For over a decade, Rob Whitehurst has been a key figure in Bowling Green State University’s men’s basketball program. Now in his 11th season as an Athletic Trainer with the team, Whitehurst has played a crucial role in keeping the Falcons competitive, especially through two injury-riddled seasons.
A BGSU alum, Whitehurst earned his bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training/Clinical Management in 2011 before completing his master’s in kinesiology in 2014.
He was promoted to associate Athletic Trainer in 2020, cementing his role as a leader in the program’s sports medicine efforts.
Whitehurst has witnessed firsthand the challenges of managing a roster heavily impacted by injuries.
“If we rewind a little further back, about 10 years ago, I was introduced to somebody who helped me out and gave me a new perspective, and we took the preventive approach as kind of our base approach,” he explained. “It took me a couple of years to build out, but in that model, we were having great success in keeping people healthy.”
However, with the evolving landscape of college basketball and increased player turnover, maintaining that model has become more difficult.
Despite these challenges, Whitehurst remains focused on fostering strong relationships with athletes.
“It all comes down to just trying to build a relationship with the student-athlete so it becomes working together on these things instead of me trying to do my job, them trying to do their thing."
When injuries do occur, Whitehurst emphasizes quick and thorough assessment.
“Right off the bat, a lot of it comes down to that relationship you’ve built and getting to know each other,” he noted. “I can already tell most of the time how severe something is based on the reaction of that player.”
From there, he swiftly coordinates care, ensuring the athlete, coaching staff, and medical team are aligned on the recovery process.
Beyond treatment, Whitehurst sees his role as a source of support and positivity for injured players.
“My default go-to is to remain positive and try to instill positivity in the process,” he said. “Not in a way that’s fake, but a genuine, just maintaining that positive attitude throughout.”
For Whitehurst, the relationships he builds with players extend far beyond their time at BGSU.
“Guys that have come through the program even four, five, six, seven years ago still reach out,” he shared. “Getting a phone call like, ‘Hey, I’ve got this going on, what do you think?’—those things are special.”
As BGSU continues to battle through injuries and competition, Whitehurst remains a steady force behind the scenes, ensuring that every Falcon has the best possible chance to stay on the court and succeed. Check out the whole story here!
