NATA Now

We look forward to seeing you at the 67th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo June 22-25 in Baltimore! It’s a great opportunity to get a first-hand look at how “We’re Better Together,” the theme of this year’s convention. The premier educational event in athletic training, the convention is also a great opportunity to connect with others in the profession. Before you make your way to the Charm City, peruse this can’t-miss information related to the convention.

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Baltimore Convention Center, Pratt Street Lobby

The 10 teams that will compete at the 2016 NATA Quiz Bowl in Baltimore have been determined. Scheduled for 5 p.m. on June 24 at the convention, the Quiz Bowl is now in its eighth year and features teams from each district in a Jeopardy-style competition. More than bragging rights will be on the line as the winning team receives $1,000 toward the school’s athletic training program or club. The second and third place teams will receive $500 and $250 respectively.

The Cramer Student Lounge is back and will have some great offerings in Baltimore this year! The Cramer Student Reception is scheduled for 4 p.m. on June 23, providing students the opportunity to network, enjoy free food and get the highly sought after Cramer giveaway item a day early. Free Wi-Fi will also be available in the student lounge throughout the convention.
 

The Commission on the Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) has opened the Curricular Content Standards for public comment. Athletic training organizations, individual athletic trainers as well as key stakeholders are encouraged to review the standards and provide comments if they so choose. ATs can find the standards and provide feedback. The comment period is 60 days and ends August 1.

The United States Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI) and Bone and Joint Canada are dedicated to increasing research of musculoskeletal diseases. The USBJI has developed a grant mentoring program to provide early-career investigators an opportunity to work with experienced researchers in our field to assist them in securing funding and other survival skills required for pursuing an academic career.

By Jason Muchow, MHA, ATC

By Kembra Mathis, MEd, ATC

Have you heard the good news? NATA has approved the Secondary School Sports Medicine Course Outline, which can be used by any AT asked to start a sports medicine course!

These guidelines come in response to the recent Secondary School Athletic Trainers’ Committee survey that revealed a need as well as a desire for a useful outline that athletic trainers in the secondary school can use to guide their academic endeavors in schools. Well, here it is!

MaryBeth Horodyski, EdD, LAT, ATC, FNATA will be assuming the role of the NATA Executive Committee for Education (ECE) Chair as of August 1, 2016.

Dr. Horodyski has served the profession at the state, district and national levels for the last 22 years. In her most recent volunteer roles she served as the Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association (District Nine) Director sitting on the NATA Board of Directors. She is currently the vice-president of the NATA Board.

By Randy Cohen, ATC, DPT

Professional skater, Olympic gold medalist, author, philanthropist and Johnson & Johnson Keynote Speaker Scott Hamilton graces the cover of the June NATA News. In his cover story, “Finding Longevity,” p. 10, he details his journey to the Olympics and life after winning gold.