Rachael Bennett, Staff Writer

In every sport there are injuries ranging from small things like jammed fingers and blisters, to bigger injuries like sprains and broken bones. Instead of trying to battle through the pain which can lead to further injury it is advised by coaches and players alike to visit the Athletic Training Department at Mesa College for the injury assessment service that is offered. Lead by Mesa’s Head Athletic Trainer Laurie Black, the service consists of athletic trainers who are of interns from San Diego State University studying clinical work to become sports doctors and learn more about human anatomy.

“I love being a trainer because of the population I work with. It’s exciting,” said Michael Ethier, a second year intern in San Diego State’s Athletic Training Program.

Not only do the trainers assist with the rehabilitation of major injuries such as broken bones and dislocations, they also aid in numerous stretching methods that loosen the muscles to prevent further injury. Techniques include icing to reduce swelling, medical taping to reduce the probability of injury, and providing pain medications. Many student-athletes partake in the services provided, mostly going in after practice for ice bags and to be stretched by the trainers for the best possible performance during games.

The athletic trainers are happy, easy going, and friendly people who are there to make sure that the athletes are healthy enough to continue playing.

“Just the fact that we’re here for them, we form relationships so they can trust us.” Ethier says.

The trainers don’t just assume what’s going on and act on it, they actually know what might be wrong and can tell what kind of injury a certain person has by the stretching method and where the pain is for the athlete. It’s all a tolerance technique. The athletic trainers stretch the athlete until you feel the pain and depending on where the pain is settling then they can tell what kind of injury it is.

Depending on what sports the athletes participate in, the result in injuries vary. Football players can face many serious injuries ranging from broken bones, dislocations, sprains, and concussions. Soccer and basketball players are prone to ankle and knee injuries and water polo and baseball players face shoulder problems. All types of injuries can be treated at the trainers’ office

Ethier is a part of SDSU’s athletic program that is affiliated with Mesa College, but there is hope for anyone interested in becoming a trainer at Mesa as well. Two different kinds of physical education classes, a biology class and a 2.5 GPA or higher are required to become an athletic trainer without stepping outside of Mesa’s campus.

“It’s a fulfilling job, you get to be around maturing athletes, and it’s a great opportunity to help people.” Either adds.

The trainers’ office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. or until the conclusion of practices or games.