STATESBORO - This month we are asking each member of our Georgia Southern athletic training staff to participate in a Q &A session for Athletic Training Appreciation Month. We will learn more about athletic training and more about the experiences of our athletic trainers and all the work they do for us behind the scenes!

Our next highlight is on Erin Gordon. Erin is a graduate assistant working with the swimming & diving team.

What is something about athletic training people often don't know?
"Athletic trainers are health professionals with knowledge in a wide variety of areas and our skill set can be used well beyond the traditional sports setting. Athletic trainers can be found working within the military, in industrial settings, in performing arts, and in hospital settings."

What is your favorite part about being an athletic trainer?
"My favorite part is the relationships I get to build with the student-athletes and the others I get to work with—to help those athletes reach their goals. The people I have met and the memories I have gotten to make while working as an athletic trainer is what makes me love going to work every day."

What is a treatment you like but don't get us as often/your favorite treatment?
"Cold Tubs! Even though they are easily accessible to all of the athletes, convincing athletes that are already in the water two times a day to get in for a third time can be a challenge: but they always feel better the next day!"

What is your favorite thing about working with your sport(s)?
"Swimming and Diving are such unique sports; I enjoy the creativity it requires me to have while working with the athletes. The amount of time the team spends in the pool or on deck allows for an abundance of funny conversations and inside jokes to be made. The energy and support that encompasses the swim and dive community allows for such a welcoming and fun experience.

"I worked with football in the fall as well and I enjoyed the energetic and fast-paced atmosphere that surrounds the sport. Being able to work alongside multiple football athletic trainers and the entire football staff allowed for a supportive environment that encouraged brainstorming and collaboration with each other."

Fun Fact:
"I got to provide athletic training coverage for the World's Strongest Firefighter Contest at the Arnold Sports Festival in 2022."