March is National Athletic Trainers Month and the area has several athletic trainers that dedicate countless hours to serving our local athletes. This is a story in a series highlighting their efforts.
Jared Wheatley
Hometown: Lebanon, Kentucky
College/Education: Eastern Kentucky University – B.S. in Athletic Training, University of West Alabama – M.Ed. in Physical Education
High school/college/team you work with: Head Athletic Trainer at Kentucky Wesleyan College – Primary sports responsibility includes, but not limited to: Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, and Track & Field/Cross Country
How long have you been an athletic trainer?
I became a Certified Athletic Trainer in 2017, so this would be my fourth year.
How long have you been in the Owensboro area and why did you decide to come here?
I moved to Owensboro in June of 2020 after accepting a position with Owensboro Health.
Why did you pursue athletic training as a career?
After some personal life-changing experiences, one of the individuals that made the largest impact on my life was an Athletic Trainer. I knew I didn’t want a job where it was going to be the same every day, and I knew I wanted to make an impact on people. Athletic Training was the perfect fit. Each day is ever-changing and I have the opportunity to impact each student-athlete I come into contact with, especially after injury.
What do you enjoy most about being an athletic trainer?
I enjoy every aspect of athletic training. The most enjoyable part of being an Athletic Trainer is helping a student-athlete both physically and mentally return to the sport they love. At the end of the day, when you see all the pieces come together and you watch that student-athlete take the court or field, it is such an accomplishment knowing that you played a role in their recovery.
What is something most people don’t understand about your profession?
Many people don’t understand what all we do in this profession. Many think all we do is tape ankles and wrap ice bags. Rather, we work to prevent injuries, we also evaluate, treat, and rehabilitate injuries when they occur as well as we provide emergency care in conjunction with EMS when needed. There are so many skills and techniques that Athletic Trainers are educated in, and our wide skill set is why there are ATs in a variety of different settings.
What is your advice for athletes when they are injured or have questions?
Ask questions. Athletic Trainers are more than happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Patient education is one of the most important aspects of health care. When a patient is educated adequately on their injury/illness, they become more invested in the recovery process.
