NATA Updates Bylaws
The NATA Board of Directors approved a series of bylaw updates during its Aug. 25 meeting.
These updates are substantive changes, which were submitted to each of the districts’ annual business meetings after an initial board approval. Each bylaw then had to be approved by at least two-thirds of the NATA’s districts before being resubmitted to the board for final approval. After receiving final board approval, the new bylaws went into effect immediately.
Globally ‘ElevATing’ the Profession
By Josh Euten, ATC, MAE, Eva Frank, PhD, ATC, and Erin Ulrich, MS, ATC, LAT
Globally elevating the athletic training profession is done through grassroots efforts and, in part, by the efforts of the athletic trainers who work abroad. To complete this work, these ATs have to main their certification. It is a difficult endeavor for ATs abroad to earn continuing education units (CEUs).
Assessing the ‘Future of Football’
By Kim Diggs
As the concern with the long-term effects of football in athletes grows, discussions about chronic traumatic encephalopathy have become more highly publicized. During the 70th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo, NFL Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allen Sills addressed these concerns during the two-hour session, “Is There a Future for Football: Ronnie Barnes Case Studies in the NFL,” June 27. This lecture series was presented by the Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society.
ATs Save Buffalo Marathon Runner from EHS
As temperatures around the country continue to reach record-breaking highs, the concern of heat-related illnesses remains at the forefront. However, as medical volunteers at this year’s Buffalo Marathon learned, under the right circumstances, exertional heat illness can be an issue in any weather condition.
For the second year, the athletic training faculty at the University at Buffalo volunteered during the annual Buffalo Marathon, which takes place at the end of May, a notoriously fickle time of year for the city in upstate New York.
Around the World in 800 Sprains
By Kim Diggs
After retiring from Modesto Junior College in Modesto, California, following a 38-year career that included time spent as a professor, head athletic trainer and treatment center coordinator, Bobby Boswell, ATC, forged a new path.
OYI: Implementing Return-to-Learn Policies
By Kim Diggs
Over the years, schools have taken more interest in proper post-concussion procedures, ensuring return-to-sport protocol is implemented. In addition, a key component to the recovery and adjustment of student athletes is the development of return-to-learn policies.
It is up to the athletic trainer to advocate for student athletes who have recently suffered a concussion to guarantee they are able to safely recover without being rushed to return to their normal schedules.
NATA Announces AT EducATionalist Community
Advancing its intentional strategy to meet members where they are, NATA is pleased to announce the AT EducATionalist Community. The dynamic and progressive evolution of athletic training provides unique opportunities and challenges for the numerous settings in which ATs are employed. Diversity in thought and representation of various perspectives throughout the athletic training profession are critical to addressing the possibilities of tomorrow and exploring innovative ways to improve patient care. This can be accomplished by remaining sensitive to serving specific setting areas.
NATA President Delivers State of Association
By Kim Diggs
Following the award ceremony and financial report, NATA President Tory Lindley, MA, ATC, delivered the State of Association Wednesday, June 26, in Shoreline, Mandalay Bay. Each year, during the NATA convention, the president discusses the major accomplishments of the previous fiscal year and lets attendees know what to expect in the coming fiscal year.
NATA Encourages Members to Give Back
By Kim Diggs
Throughout the 70th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo, attendees have participated in one or more of the charitable initiatives taking place on-site. Though it is the last day of NATA 2019, it is not too late to contribute to organizations aiming to change the lives of others. The National Basketball Athletic Trainers’ Association Gary Vitti Blood Drive, Be the Match Marrow Registry Drive and Project 150 School Supply Drive are still going strong.
Find out how these initiatives have fared thus far and learn how you can contribute.
Support NATA Foundation During NATA 2019
By Kim Diggs
The NATA Research & Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization aiming to push the profession forward by providing grants for research projects.
“The money helps us further the advancement of the AT profession,” said NATA Foundation Director Jennifer Yoder. “It helps us facilitate our research and education programs.”
During the course of NATA 2019, there are a few ways attendees can help the NATA Foundation reach its goals.
Not Just an Average Professional
By Kim Diggs
At 7:15 a.m. June 25, more than 300 members assembled in South Seas GH for what President Tory Lindley, MA, ATC, called “the largest NATAPAC Breakfast yet.” The breakfast is an annual fundraiser for the NATA Political Action Committee (NATAPAC) to fund the political efforts necessary for the progression of the profession.
This year, the keynote speaker was Ronnie Barnes, ATC, the first president of NATA Research & Education Foundation and a NATA Hall of Famer.