Image courtesy Canva

March is National Athletic Training Month, and The University of Kansas Health System is highlighting the vital role athletic trainers play in keeping Kansans healthy and active. More than 70 trainers work across schools, clinics, and sports medicine facilities in the Kansas City area, supporting middle and high school athletes, University of Kansas student-athletes, and collaborating with orthopedic doctors and physical therapists.

Trainers are embedded in over 60 schools across eastern Kansas and western Missouri, providing hands-on care during practices and games, preventing injuries, and assisting with rehabilitation. Beyond schools and clinics, they participate in community programs, including youth training partnerships and performance centers in Overland Park, helping physically active patients recover and avoid future injuries through education and personalized care.

National Athletic Training Month raises awareness of these licensed healthcare professionals, who prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. Officials say the month is an opportunity to recognize trainers as essential members of healthcare teams, particularly in schools and sports settings where timely care can make a critical difference.