Yet Another 'Athletic Trainer Shortage' News Story, But...

This one from the Parsons Sun starts out with the first line that states there is a nationwide shortage. But... at least they do go on to cover the main reasons for a lack of ATs at schools. 

And they do provide some great stats on the need for Athletic Trainers. As the 2024-25 school year begins in Kansas, a critical shortage of Athletic Trainers continues to affect high schools across the state.

According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), 41% of Kansas schools lack an Athletic Trainer, with rural schools being three to four times more likely to face this issue compared to suburban areas.

This extends beyond Kansas, with neighboring states like Missouri (46%) and Oklahoma (68%) experiencing even higher deficits, while Colorado (33%) and Nebraska (36%) fare slightly better.

The story goes on to provide details driving these stats, including: compensation, organizational culture, burnout, and increased work responsibility. Tanner Forrest, an Athletic Trainer at Parsons High School, stated: 

"A lot of the shortage comes from Athletic Trainers feeling undervalued and the change in education requirements."

In 2022, a master’s degree became a requirement for certification, increasing student debt without significantly improving salaries. Aaliyah Manuz, an Athletic Trainer at Chanute High School, added: 

"I look at postings for colleges, and they’re $35-40k a year. That’s a slap in the face."

Athletic Trainers play a vital role, especially in rural areas where athletes may lack access to medical care.

"People think everything is just physical... but I help deal with the emotional and mental wellbeing of the kids."

Despite their importance, many schools struggle to maintain full-time positions due to budget constraints.

Labette County High School, for example, eliminated its full-time Athletic Trainer last year, leaving coaches to manage injuries alongside their regular duties.

As Kansas schools prepare for fall sports, the focus is on mitigating heat-related illnesses, a critical issue in the state’s high temperatures.

Athletic Trainers like Manuz emphasize the importance of following heat acclimatization protocols to ensure athlete safety.

"That’s our main focus right now."

Read the full story here - and it has a lot more great quotes!