"What’s a day if you’re not working 11 hours?"

Dani Moulton, an Athletic Trainer at the University of Northern Colorado, embodies the essence of dedication and personal commitment in her profession.

Working with both the football and track and field teams, Moulton has found her passion in athletic training, a field that she initially approached with an interest in physical therapy.

"Their joys are your joys, and their heartbreaks are yours," Moulton says, reflecting on her deep connection with the athletes she works with.

This level of empathy and personal investment was something she anticipated, but the depth of these relationships has surpassed her expectations. Her care for the athletes goes beyond professional duty; it's a fundamental part of her life.

Moulton’s days are filled with various tasks, from wrapping ankles for the football team to devising workout plans. Despite the hectic schedule, she maintains a positive demeanor, often seen smiling and joking with her athletes. August van de Weijer, a senior track athlete, praises her for the strong relationship she has built in a short time, highlighting her effective and supportive approach.

Her philosophy intertwines her personal view of success with her professional responsibilities. "I care a lot, and I try to put that into everything that I do," Moulton asserts. She believes the best way to ensure the athletes’ well-being is by showing them how much she cares, striving to end each day knowing she has done her utmost.

Yet, Moulton's life extends beyond her role as an Athletic Trainer. She's an avid fan of musicals, capable of quoting 'Hamilton' at any moment, a devoted owner to her golden retriever, and a passionate hockey enthusiast, especially for the Colorado Avalanche.

Her commitment to her athletes is both the most rewarding and challenging aspect of her job. Balancing the demands of numerous athletes with limited hours in a day is a constant challenge, but one Moulton embraces wholeheartedly.

Her dedication and the results she sees in her athletes' recovery and success are what drive her through the long, demanding hours.

"But what’s a day if you’re not working eleven hours?" she says with a mix of humor and pride, underscoring her unwavering commitment to her profession and the athletes she serves.

See the full story here!