For the new upcoming season, head athletic trainer Daniel Scalia has the entire athletic training crew prepared for another busy football season. Returning and new trainers are taping ankles and helping treat players to help them perform at their best. 

 “Even though times might be stressful and exhausting,” Scalia said, “we’re just having to push through it. I want it to be one of those things where [kids think,] ‘Yeah, it kinda sucks, but I’m still having fun with it.’” 

Scalia said he hopes his students gain trust, camaraderie and build friendships within the program.

“I want them to get the family atmosphere that we want to create with this program and have a great time,’’ Scalia said.

Returning trainer sophomore Lexi Ratcliff has enjoyed returning for a second year.

‘’I’m most excited about hanging out with all the girls and learning more, like learning how to do more taping,” Ratcliff said. 

She added that learning how to tape takes hours of practice. The athletic trainers work with the athletes in the mornings and at practices. 

Scalia said that his favorite part of working with the athletes and the trainers is getting to know each of them.

 “With student athletes, it’s fun getting to know the kids, getting to see the passions, the personalities of all the kids, getting to spend time with them,” Scalia siad.

The student trainers get to watch and learn from Scalia and the assistant trainers. The experience helps students see a possible career path and gain early experience and tips.

“I want to be a trainer because I love being outside with everybody and the adrenaline rush you get from helping with the injuries,” Ratcliff said. “Being outside to help people is what I like to do.”