Students who are interested in athletic training and sports medicine have a unique option at Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. The Sports Management Club is a new addition to the available activities for students, and is supervised and led by the head athletic trainers at St. Thomas Aquinas High school. This club allows students to gain hands-on experience in athletic care and team support.

Club members learn about stretching routines to help out the athletes and basic practice in sports medicine. Club meetings are held once or twice a month; both as a whole club and as board members. During meetings, members discuss the upcoming sporting events like football, volleyball, basketball, or soccer games. During practices and games, club members assist the trainers in the training room and communicate about their tasks for the day.

The members’ days are pretty active and involve a lot of assistance for the athletes. A typical day may consist of many different helpful activities, supporting the athletic department. Members help out with filling coolers, preparing water or gatorade jugs for the athletes, stretching out or taping-up athletes before a game or practice, and making other neccessary contributions to the overall process. On football game days, club members stay on the sidelines in their designated zones. Here, they may provide water and refreshments during the timeouts and half-time.

The responsibilities they have teach the members about teamwork and time management. These are both essential for students that are interested in a sports’ health or management career. Members have shared that this club is a lot of fun and is the perfect opportunity for students with a passion for sports, medicine, and helping others.  Senior members of the club were acknowledged with a tribute banner, on display at the Brian Piccolo Stadium on the STA campus.

Students who are involved in this club have a direct impact on the school’s athletic programs and reputation. Those who are interested in sports management and would like to consider signing up for the club, should reach out to the club moderator, Coach Exantus, ([email protected]).