 Tuesday, March 31 2026
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? Rio Grande City High School / Rio Grande City Grulla ISD August 1990 to Present, 35 years
Why did you choose this profession? I have always enjoyed sports and I like helping players get back into the game.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop?
What is your favorite part of the job?
What's your mantra or favorite quote?
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? I have to give a lot of Credit to Ruben Cantu,LAT out at Texas A&I University. He has been a big influence on my professional career.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training?  Monday, March 30 2026
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? 10 years at Grulla High. I completed my education at UTPA.
Why did you choose this profession?
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop?
What is your favorite part of the job?
What's your mantra or favorite quote?
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? My biggest influences are my mentors—James Meguire, Gary Aguirre, Jim Lancaster, Joe Ramos, and Andrea Miller-Pereira—who have guided and shaped me professionally. As a mom, balancing this profession and family isn’t always easy, so I’m equally grateful for the support and patience of my family, and for my coworker Rae Ashley, whose teamwork and reliability help keep everything running smoothly. They all play a meaningful role in helping me grow and succeed.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training?  Friday, March 27 2026
Current Workplace: AP Solis/ Todd Middle School (Donna High School)
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I am finishing my fourth year as an AT. I did my undergrad at UTRGV and received my master's from Texas Tech Health Sciences Center
Why did you choose this profession? I have always been fascinated with all things sports and fitness, ever since I was a little girl. Combined with my passion for helping people, Athletic Training just seemed like the perfect job setting for me.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? For an Athletic Trainer, the most important skills go way beyond just taping ankles and running rehab programs. The best ATs are a mix of clinician, communicator, problem-solver, and a calm leader under pressure.
What is your favorite part of the job? The most rewarding part of being an Athletic Trainer is helping athletes through their recovery and seeing them return to what they love. I really value building trust with them and being someone they can rely on, especially during challenging moments. I also take pride in staying calm under pressure and making the right decisions when it matters most. Overall, it’s the impact you have on both their physical and mental well-being that makes the role so fulfilling.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “Don’t ever let somebody tell you… you can’t do something.”
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Personally, my family has been my biggest influence. I credit them for me being everything I am today. Professionally, I am thankful for all my mentors along the way, especially Dr. Juan Gonzalez, who taught me that if you work hard enough at something you will achieve it, and Roxanne Faison who showed me that being an AT can be multifaceted and never boring!
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? My advice would be to go into Athletic Training with a clear understanding of your ‘why.’ It’s a very rewarding career, but it also requires long hours, adaptability, and a strong commitment to your athletes. Take full advantage of your clinical experiences, build meaningful relationships, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your patients. If you’re passionate about helping others and willing to put in the work, it’s an incredibly fulfilling profession.  Thursday, March 26 2026
Current Workplace: Valley View High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I’m a first year AT! I completed both my degrees from Angelo State University.
Why did you choose this profession? I became an AT because I want to be the AT I had for my students. I have also met some great ATs that demonstrate joy for the profession.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? Time management and compassion for all!
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is definitely getting to know my student athletes better. These kids say the funniest things.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “Be a goldfish” - Ted Lasso
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Some of my biggest influencers professionally would be my professors each showing my qualities of good ATs and personally would be both of my younger sisters.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? My advice would be to strive for a work-life harmony! Life will change and trying to balance everything can cause more harm than good!  Wednesday, March 25 2026
Current Workplace: Palmview High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education. I have been in this field for 2 years. I received my bachelors in Kinesiology with a concentration in Athletic Training and did the sports medicine internship at UTRGV in 2 years.
Why did you choose this profession? I chose this profession because I am passionate about helping student athletes while working in a sports setting.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? I believe critical thinking and problem solving are critical for an athletic trainer to develop. An athletic trainer has to make quick decisions in emergency situations and adapt rehabilitation plans for each athlete.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is when an athlete tells me that I helped them be injury free.
What is your mantra or favorite quote? “The things that scare you only make you better and stronger.”
Who are some of your biggest influencers personally and professionally? My biggest personal influencers are my parents. They have always shown me the value of hard work, consistency, and caring for others. Watching their dedication and support has shaped the way I approach both my personal life and my career. Professionally, my coworkers and fellow athletic trainers have had a major impact on me. Being able to learn from their experience, observe their patient care, and see how they handle different situations has helped me grow in confidence and develop my own approach as an athletic trainer.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? My personal advice for both ATs and students are to be patient with yourself and stay open to learning. Growth takes time. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, and build relationships with your athletes and fellow ATs.  Tuesday, March 24 2026
Current Workplace:
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education?
Why did you choose this profession?
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop?
What is your favorite part of the job?
What’s your mantra or favorite quote?
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally?
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training?  Monday, March 23 2026
Current workplace: Valley View ISD
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? This is my first year as an ATC, and I got my Bachelors/Masters degree at Angelo State University.
Why did you chose this profession? I chose this profession because I fell in love with it in high school when I was a student trainer.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? In my opinion, evaluations and first aid response are some of the most important skills for ATs to develop.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is building rapport with my student athletes and being able to educate them about injuries and the rehabilitation process.
What’s your favorite mantra or favorite quote? “You’ll never know if you don’t try.”
Who are some of your biggest influences both personally and professionally? My biggest influencers professionally would be my professors at ASU and Ben Garcia who was my AT in high school that got me into this profession. Personally, would be my family who have supported me through everything I have done.
Do you have any advice for other Ats or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? My advice for students contemplating a career in Athletic Training would be to make sure this is what you love doing and to keep making it fun while doing it.  Friday, March 20 2026
Current Workplace: Los Fresnos High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? 3 years, Bachelor's degree at UTRGV & Master's degree at Tarleton State University
Why did you choose this profession? This profession is two categories that I love, both sports and healthcare.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? The skills that in my opinion are most important for an AT to develop are staying up to date on research articles, learning from fellow AT's, attending seminars, and placing yourself in situations that are out of your comfort zone.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is the close relationships I build with athletes while rehabilitating them back to their sport, especially with athletes who have sustained a season ending injury and seeing that athlete come back to their sport.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? "Going through things you never thought you'd go through will only take you places you never thought you'd get to." -Morgan Harper Nichols
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Some of my biggest influencers are all my former preceptors and professors from both UTRGV & Tarleton State.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Stay committed to the grind because your hard work will be noticed.  Thursday, March 19 2026
Current Workplace: J.Economedes High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I have been an athletic trainer for 4 years. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. I chose to pursue a master’s in athletic training at Stephen F. Austin State University.
Why did you choose this profession? My senior year of high school I was set on becoming a nurse, that was my goal. That same year I had an injury and spent several weeks in the training room with my athletic trainers. I enjoyed seeing how they worked like nurses, helping people, but covering all athletic sports. That is when I had a change of heart and decided to give athletic training a try.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? Most important is communication skills. It is very important to have communication, especially when it comes to our coaches, parents, and doctors. Some other important skills to have are patience and empathy. When athletes are trying to explain their injury or what they’re feeling it is important to give them the opportunity to speak and it’s our job to listen to them and figure out how we are going to help them the best we can.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is seeing an athlete return to their sport after being out due to an injury or surgery.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? One of my favorite quotes is “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? My husband, my grandmother, and my parents. They have all supported me throughout my time as a student, and even still as a professional. They have shaped me into who I am today.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Some advice I have for students is not to give up when it comes to your studies. It will be hard, but it is possible. Do not let anyone convince you that you can’t do it! One word of advice for other AT’s is to take time for yourself and your family. Don’t forget to take care of yourself too.  Wednesday, March 18 2026
Current Workplace: I have been here at Donna High School for the last 6 years
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I will be completing my 9th year in Athletic Training. I completed my Bachelor’s of Science in Athletic Training at Texas Lutheran in 2017. I then completed my Master’s in Sports Science and Rehabilitation from Logan University in 2019.
Why did you choose this profession? I wanted to be close to sports, but in a meaningful way. Not just watching from the sidelines but being part of the action. I liked the idea of being trusted when it mattered most.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? The best ATs aren’t just good at taping ankles or writing rehab programs. They’re calm leaders, trusted communicators, confident decision-makers and adaptable problem-solvers. I believe these skills separate you from an average AT to a great AT.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of being an athletic trainer is earning trust in high-pressure moments and helping athletes safely get back to doing what they love. Athletes coming back to you weeks later. Coaches trusting your word. Parents relaxing when you explain what’s happening.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “Be the calm in the chaos”. Athletes will not remember what you said but remember how safe they felt during some of the hardest moments in their lives.
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Over the last nine years of being an athletic trainer, I’ve been fortunate to learn from two incredible mentors who shaped not only how I practice, but who I am in this profession. Travis Gray, who I worked with at Chapel Hill High School, taught me that relationships are the foundation of athletic training. He showed me that trust, connection, and a little bit of swag can make this demanding profession meaningful and fun. He became family to me, and without his guidance, I truly don’t know who I would be as an athletic trainer today. I hope he’s looking down proud of me. Miss you Compa. The second most influential mentor in my career is Steffanie Becker, the absolute GOAT of athletic training here in the Rio Grande Valley. She is the epitome of what a great athletic trainer should be kind, hardworking, selfless, and deeply committed to mentoring others. Bringing me to Donna High School and learning under her leadership was an honor, and her influence continues to guide me every day.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? If you’re an AT or a student thinking about becoming one, understand this first: athletic training is built on relationships and responsibility, not just skills. Learn your anatomy, master evaluations, and respect the science, but never forget that athletes trust you with their bodies, their confidence, and sometimes their future. Find mentors who challenge you, support you, and remind you why this work matters on the hard days. Protect your integrity, advocate for your value, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries early burnout doesn’t come from caring too much, it comes from caring without support. Most importantly, remember that success in this profession isn’t measured by wins or recognition, but by the quiet moments when someone feels safer, stronger, and more confident because you were there.  Tuesday, March 17 2026
Current Workplace: Hidalgo ISD
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? This is my 3rd year in the field. I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and my master’s degree at King’s College in Pennsylvania.
Why did you choose this profession? I chose Athletic Training because it allows me to combine my passion for sports with my desire to help others. Especially at the high school level you’re not just helping athletes but helping them grow as young adults. I wanted to be someone they could trust and rely on, whether they’re dealing with an injury, a setback, or just need guidance.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? The most important skills are communication, critical thinking, and adaptability. Athletic trainers must make quick decisions under pressure, communicate clearly with athletes, coaches, parents, physicians and adjust plans based on each athlete’s needs. Building strong relationships and earning trust is just as important.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part is building relationships with athletes and watching them grow throughout their high school career. It is rewarding watching them recover from injuries and seeing them return to the sport they love. Being there for them during both challenges makes the job meaningful.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “trust the process”
Who are some of your biggest influences both personally and professionally? Personally, my family has been my greatest source of strength and inspiration. They taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. They supported me through the long hours, stressful seasons, and moments of doubt, always encouraging me to keep going. Professionally, my mentor, Lionel Rice, had a major impact on my career. He helped guide me when I questioned whether I wanted to continue in this profession. His mentorship, encouragement, and belief in me reminded me why I started and pushed me to keep going. The way he cared for athletes and carried himself professionally set the standard for the type of Athletic Trainer I strive to be
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and gain experience. Build relationships and ask questions. This profession requires long hours, patience and resilience, but it is incredibly meaningful work.  Monday, March 16 2026
Current Workplace: Los Fresnos United
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I’ve been working as an ATC for 4 years. I acquired my Bachelors degree from UTRGV and my Masters degree from Abilene Christian University.
Why did you choose this profession? I chose this profession because I’ve always liked sports since I was in high school and I just wanted to be a part of them throughout my career.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? I would say confidence is really important in the first couple of years along with being able to communicate with parents and coaches about student’s injuries.
What is your favorite part of the job? Rehabbing an athlete back to play is the best part of the job.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? Never stop learning.
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? My UTRGV preceptors were really my biggest influencers in me getting my Masters degree in athletic training.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? If someone is considering a career in athletic training, I would say they should try an internship program or try observing an AT to see if it is something they can see themselves doing in the future. It’s also good for experience when applying to Masters programs.  Friday, March 13 2026
Current Workplace: Donna North High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? Half a year in the profession. Bachelors: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Masters: Texas A&M University
Why did you choose this profession? The profession is unique and gives you the opportunity to help the athlete be the best version of themselves.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? Communication and the capability to adapt to situations on the go.
What is your favorite part of the job? Getting to see an athlete return to the sport from an injury that you were able to rehabilitate.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Personally my family has a big influence in my life as they have supported me throughout my journey in the Athletic Training profession. Professionally my mentors from high school, college and professional level sports have influenced me and challenged me to better myself throughout my craft.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Athletic Training is holistic medicine that helps aid the athlete in competing at their best and the safest way possible. Every day presents itself differently, but from your education and experience it becomes something that pays off to see success from the athlete.  Thursday, March 12 2026
Current Workplace: Hidalgo ISD
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I am currently completing my 4th year total as an athletic trainer, and I got my masters in athletic trainer from baylor university.
Why did you choose this profession? Having been a former athlete I wanted a profession that kept me around the world of athletics that allowed me to help and impact the life’s of athletes for the better.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop?
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is being able to stand on the sideline and watch my athlete be able to participate after having gone through a full rehabilitation plan for their injury.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? If that hurts then don’t do it!
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? The three biggest influencers professionally that have helped guide me on my path to becoming an athletic trainer are:
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? The best advice I can give to other athletic trainers is always remember to take care of yourself. We work constantly on helping others physically and mentally that we end up neglecting ourselves. This career is very demanding so always take the time to make sure you care for yourself when you can, because how are we suppose to take care of others when we can’t take of ourselves.  Wednesday, March 11 2026
Current Workplace: Los Fresnos High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I have been working as an athletic trainer for 15 years, graduated from Los Fresnos High School and completed my college education at Graceland University, Iowa.
Why did you choose this profession? I chose this profession for a combination of personal passion for sports, fitness, and physical activity. I was a former athlete myself and enjoyed being around sports. The job lets you stay connected to athletics in a daily basis while helping athletes stay active.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? I believe interpersonal and empathy skills are very important — building trust with your athletes, showing patience, motivating during recovery, listening and handling emotional situations properly.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite aspect of this job is the sense of belonging that comes with being part of a sports team. I enjoy witnessing the athletes succeed at what they do best. Helping an injured athlete reclaim their spot on the field, return to competition, and knowing I contributed to that journey is fulfilling.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? My favorite quote is "Survival of the fittest" as it relates powerfully to the sports world as a metaphor for constantly testing and selecting those who adapt best- not just physically, but mentally, tactically, and emotionally.
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Personally- my parents were the most direct and lifelong personal influencer of my life, they shaped my values, work ethic, responsibility, resilience, civic duty, and respect for others.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? My advice to students contemplating a career in athletic trainer is to "go for it" if they really enjoy helping others and love being around sports/athletes but to be mindful that being the profession can be fulfilling but also very demanding.
 Tuesday, March 10 2026
Current Workplace: Lyford CISD as the Head Athletic Trainer
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I am entering my 6th year as a Licensed Athletic Trainer and I graduated from UTRGV with my Bachelor's in Kinesiology with a concentration in Athletic Training.
Why did you choose this profession? I chose Athletic Training because I have always had a passion for sports and helping others. I wanted a career where I could make a direct impact on student athletes’ health, safety, and success both on and off the field.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? The most important skills for an Athletic Trainer to develop are strong communication, critical thinking, and compassion. Being able to quickly assess injuries, make sound decisions under pressure, and clearly communicate with athletes, parents, and coaches is essential.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite aspect of the job is building strong relationships with athletes and supporting their successful return to play following injury.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? My mantra is “Trust the process.” It reminds me and my athletes to stay consistent, patient, and disciplined. Progress may not always be immediate, but commitment to the plan leads to lasting results.
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Personally, my family has been my biggest influence, teaching me the value of hard work and perseverance. Professionally, mentors like Steven Kraus, Craig Skinner, Tom Mendez, Doc Z, and Benjamin Garica have greatly shaped my growth and approach to Athletic Training.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Stay patient and committed. Athletic Training takes dedication and resilience, but it’s rewarding. Build strong relationships, keep asking questions, and always put your athletes’ health first.  Monday, March 09 2026
Current Workplace: Los Fresnos High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I have been at Los Fresnos for 3 years. UTRGV is where I completed my education.
Why did you choose this profession? I have always wanted to work with athletes.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? Communication with your athletes. I believe it is a great way to build relationships.
What is your favorite part of the job? Spending time with my AT students and Athletes. Even watching their games.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “Domain Expansion, Infinite Taping!”
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? N/A
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Do it! It is so much fun, especially if you love sports. For me working at a high school has been such a great experience from my bosses to the kids! I truly love me job!  Friday, March 06 2026
Current Workplace: Weslaco East High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? This is my first year certified and licensed as an athletic trainer. Undergraduate: University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) - 2022 Graduate: Texas State University – 2025
Why did you choose this profession? I always wanted to do something in health care as far back as I can remember. My original plan was to go to physical therapy school. It wasn’t until I got to my Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries class at UTSA that I wanted to go into athletic training. My professor for that course would talk about his experiences covering games, and it made me realize that maybe athletic training was the better option for me than physical therapy. I don’t regret making that decision.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? Adaptability is a skill I think most athletic trainers should develop. You never know when the schedule suddenly changes and you need to make adjustments on a dime. Being able to use the resources at your disposal also goes into this.
What is your favorite part of the job? The thing I love most about this job is that you see your patients - you athletes - from when they get hurt all the way to seeing them playing again. Nothing has been more satisfying than watching some of our student athletes bounce back from their injuries and seeing them play once more.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “I’m enjoying the uselessness of today, and readying my usefulness for tomorrow.” - Gustave Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Professionally, I always think back to my preceptors I had at Texas State and how they were able to get through the chaotic mess of their athletic training rooms during the busiest hours of the day. That taught me how to shift from one athlete to another and how to manage an athletic training room with a lot of athletes needing something.
Personally, I have always looked up to my parents and how much they have influenced me as a person. My mom taught me patience and learning how to walk away from a problem and looking at it again another day. My dad taught me that I need to use my voice if I want change to happen.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? It’s okay to take a mental health day. The burnout in this career is real, and it’s important to take care of yourself before you take care of others. It’s also okay to make mistakes. We’re all not going to be perfect, and learning from our mistakes makes us better clinicians  Thursday, March 05 2026
Current Workplace: Sharyland High School
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I have been in the field for total of two years. Working on completing third year this school year at Sharyland High School. The two years were in Port Isabel High School. I graduated from PSJA Memorial High School, and I completed my education at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley UTRGV.
Why did you choose this profession? I chose athletic training because sports shaped my life growing up. After experiencing injuries myself and working closely with athletic trainers, I saw firsthand how impactful the profession is. That is when I knew I wanted to help athletes recover, perform, and stay healthy.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? I believe the most important skills for an athletic trainer are strong clinical assessment, communication, and relationship-building. We have to make quick, accurate decisions regarding injuries, communicate clearly with athletes and coaches, and build trust so athletes feel supported. In a school setting especially, adaptability and emotional intelligence are also key because we are not just treating injuries we are mentoring young athletes through challenges.
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part is building trust with the athletes and helping them safely return to play. Theres nothing better than seeing their hard work pay off. Wins are great but watching an athlete overcome an injury and regain confidence. That's the real win for me.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? My mantra is "Be calm in the chaos" Friday nights can be chaotic. Injuries can be emotional. I believe my role is to be calm in the chaos. Steady, confident, and composed. Athletes feed off that energy.
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Professionally: My two high school athletic trainers Jason Chad Hilburn, and Joanna "JoJo" Ruiz. UTRGV AT: HALL OF FAMER & former UTPA/UTRGV Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine Jim Lancaster, Steven Kraus UTRGV Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine , Tom Mendez University of Texas Baseball athletic trainer, and Sharyland co-workers Rob Montoya, and Alyssa Garza. Personally, my Dad Isidoro Galindo , Mom Yvette Galindo , Sister Rachelle Gonzalez, and my fiancée Iris Maldonado. Each and one of them has made an impact in who I am as an athletic trainer and who I am as a person.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? For student ATs: Be ready to outwork everyone in the room, keep learning even when you think you know enough, and stay humble. Your knowledge matters, but your presence matters just as much. If you care deeply about helping others, return to what they love, and you're willing to sacrifice time and comfort to do it. Then athletic training is one of the most rewarding careers you'll ever choose. For athletic trainers that are already in the profession. Don't lose the reason you started. The long hours and the paperwork, ...they can wear you down but the impact you make every single day is bigger than you think. Protect your boundaries and set the tone for your athletes. If you lead with calm, confidence, and compassion, they'll follow.
Proud to be an athletic trainer serving in the Rio Grande Valley
Thank you, Valley Athletic Training Association, for this recognition it is an honor.  Wednesday, March 04 2026
Current Workplace: Lopez Early College High School Brownsville Independent School District
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? 3rd year Certified/Licensed AT Bachelor’s degree: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Master’s degree: Texas State University
Why did you choose this profession? Athletic Trainers have the best job in the world! Growing up, I always wanted to work in the medical field and like most ATs, played sports myself. This profession entails of injury prevention, clinical evaluation, emergency care, treatment/rehabilitation, and healthcare administration. It's a little bit of everything and you never know what you're going to see or what your athletes will say! Our profession provides opportunity in a variety of settings, such as fine arts, industrial, professional, and at the secondary setting. I feel that I am right where God wants me to be, keeping athletes in the game and being a light to our youth.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? Interpersonal communication
What is your favorite part of the job? The fulfillment of helping my students reach their athletic and personal development goals.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity”
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Biggest influences in my personal life are my two babies and husband! Everything I do is for them and they keep me going! As a professional, I aspire to continue waking up and loving my job as much and for as long as my work partner and Hall of Fame-er, Jimi Cantu!! I am especially grateful to my TXST professors, Britney K Webb and Dr. Missy Fraser.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? Never let the spirit of fear stop you from achieving your goals and purpose. Although the days are long, life is short! Each and every day is an opportunity to change someone's life for the better!  Tuesday, March 03 2026
Current Workplace: Progressive Health – Injury prevention Specialist (HEB)
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? I graduated from University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2020 and am currently finishing up my fourth year as a Licensed Athletic Trainer.
Why did you chose this profession? I chose this profession because of the love I have for sports and for helping others. Athletic Training allows me to combine both passions every single day.
What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop? I believe it’s important to constantly refine your ability to identify injuries and improve your awareness of the situations that can occur within a specific sport or setting.
What is your favorite part of the job? The satisfaction of knowing you made a positive impact on someone else’s life day in and day out.
What’s your mantra or favorite quote? “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? I would definitely say my parents and my wife are some of my biggest motivators in my personal life. Their constant support pushes me to be better every day. From a professional standpoint, Craig Skinner, Jim Lancaster, Steven Kraus, and Tom Mendez truly instilled the wisdom and knowledge that helped shape me into the professional I am today.
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? To the students: When making a decision about your future career, make sure you have a strong passion for what you choose to pursue in healthcare. It isn’t always the most forgiving when it comes to personal life, but it is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding fields you can be a part of.  Monday, March 02 2026
Current Workplace: Mission CISD (Kenneth White Jr High and Alton Memorial Jr High)
How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education? 2 years and graduated from UTRGV Sports Medicine
Why did you choose this profession? I love sports and I love to care for our students. This career incorporates both!
What skills do you think are the most important for an AT to develop? Listening and investigating every injury is different.
What is your favorite part of the job? Interacting with students and seeing them get stronger.
What's your mantra or favorite quote? Matthew 20:28 “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally? Personally: God Professionally: Jim Lancaster
Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training? This career is about serving our athletes. We will never stop learning and re learning. 15 years in the work force and this is hands down the best career I have been a part of!
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