While the football team battles it out in the spotlight during the anticipated Friday night games, people tend to forget that there are more than just coaches and players. Besides the brotherly bond the team shares, the team has something more important: a set of student athletic trainers that aid to any injury the players may receive.  

“I love being able to grow in my education of sports medicine and learn so many things that will help me in the profession that I want to go into in my future. But I have also been able to become good friends with the other trainers and athletes, too,” Mackenzie Rowell, junior athletic trainer, said.  

Most games require at least one or two trainers to be on hand in case an athlete needs medical attention. All student trainers are required to assist the football team, since it is a contact sport with dozens of athletes, but have the option to work with any other sport if they desire.  

“You can grow in the classroom and as a trainer,” Rowell said.  

In order to become a team trainer, students need to be enrolled in the healthcare or sports medicine pathway at Etowah. This is required for trainers, so they can learn the basics of first aid.  

With the help of the student trainer’s adviser, Alex King, they are able to assist with the rehabilitation of injured athletes and help with the recovery process.  

“I have learned how to assess multiple injuries and what types of preventive measures you can take to not have certain injuries. I have learned different stretches to help with relaxing muscles and what machines to use to help with rehabilitation of injuries,” Lauren Cohen, senior, said.  

While on the sidelines, student trainers have the opportunity to witness athletic injuries first-hand and to assist in the diagnosis.  

Student trainers are eligible to letter in Sports Medicine after one year on staff.