NATA Hall of Fame Inductee for 1996
William Buhler began his career as an athletic trainer in the late '40's at Valparaiso University in Idaho. He then left Idaho for the Brooklyn Dodgers where he served as a minor league athletic trainer and later, an assistant athletic trainer. It was then on to the Los Angeles Dodgers where he served as Head Athletic Trainer for over 44 years. During his tenure as Head Athletic Trainer for the Los Angeles Dodgers, he conceived and initiated a method of icing pitchers' shoulders and elbows to minimize the effects of micro trauma; began the practice of having outfielders throw between innings to keep loose; devised thumb protectors for catchers' use and; improved shin guards to protect catchers' feet and knees. He devised and patented the catchers' throat guard and chest protector. During his career, Bill participated in nine All-Star Games, nine World Series', and five World Championships. Bill has been a NATA member for over 40 years and, in 1994, he received NATA's Distinguished Athletic Trainer Award. In 1995, he received the District 8 Distinguished Service Award.
Bill Buhler Hall of Fame Video