NATIONAL ATHLETIC TRAINING MONTH KICKS OFF MARCH 1
WITH NEW 2004 THEME -- “INJURY TREATMENT:
EARLY CARE SPEEDS RECOVERY”

Fourth Annual Event, Sponsored by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association,
Offers Community Outreach Programs Across America

DALLAS, February 18 – Certified Athletic Trainers (ATCs) throughout the United States will celebrate their profession in March, during National Athletic Training Month, by organizing special events, screenings, health fairs, luncheons and other activities in their local communities. The purpose is not only to generate awareness of ATCs’ important role in sports settings, corporations, schools, the military, hospitals and other health care facilities, but also to educate the public on important health care issues. During this year’s National Athletic Training Month, ATCs will be focusing on the topic of “Injury Treatment: Early Care Speeds Recovery.”

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) is a not-for-profit organization that represents 30,000 members in the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries to athletes and others who are engaged in everyday physical activities. Recognized as allied health care professionals by the American Medical Association, ATCs help lessen the burden on the public and private health care systems.

“We’re very excited that 2004 marks our fourth annual National Athletic Training Month,” says NATA president Julie Max, MEd, ATC. “In years past, our members have coordinated charity 5K races, conducted health screenings of government officials, hosted career workshops, and given keynote speeches, among other outreach activities. We’re expecting many more creative events this year to benefit our members’ local communities at large.”

About the NATA:
Certified athletic trainers (ATCs) are unique health care providers who specialize in the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses that occur to athletes and the physically active. The National Athletic Trainers' Association represents and supports 30,000 members of the athletic training profession through education and research. www.nata.org. NATA, 2952 Stemmons Freeway, Ste. 200, Dallas, TX 75247, 214.637.6282; 214.637.2206 (fax).