Athletic trainers are highly qualified multi-skilled health care professionals who render treatment and reduce risk in a variety of settings. Some confuse ATs with personal trainers or physical therapists, but there are many differences.

“We treat all of Riordan’s student athletes, whether it’s treatments, rehab, or evaluations for recurring injuries,” trainer Sabrina Bermudez explained.

She continued, “We cover all of the home sporting events and if needed provide emergency services.”

Being a trainer is a very difficult job with many challenges as is any job working in medicine.

Anthony Rissotto ’17 said, “Obviously we want to be able to help every person that walks into the door, but in some unfortunate cases, it’s out of our control.”

He added, “The athletic trainers help about 30-60 students a day. That’s a lot for two trainers to handle, which is why there are student athletic trainers.”

The athletic trainers also have student assistants as part of the Sports Med program.

“I learn about injuries and I do a lot of taping with student athletes,” said Nana Abdelghani ’24, a member of the club.

The training they provide inspires them to become trainers, nurses, and even doctors.

Rissotto said, “I like the idea of making people feel better along with making somebody who is potentially having the worst day have a better day or feel better and be able to perform at their peak performance.”

Bermudez said, “I enjoy being able to help people and I enjoy being around sports while also giving athletes an understanding of their body post injury or getting back into activity, too.”

The athletic trainers mainly help student athletes, but if there is an emergency in the classrooms or around campus,

Bermudez said, “We will help with recognition and guidance on what to do.”

Athletic trainers are a part of student athletes’ lives and sports wouldn’t be the same without them.