The Effects of The COVID-19 Pandemic on The Atheltic Trainers of The UNC-System

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Joshua Lee Meeks (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: The COVID-19 Pandemic will cause university athletics to never be the same. COVID-19 has upended the world of sports and challenged athletic programs to adapt practices, events, and policies to ensure the safety of coaches, athletes and fans. However, little attention has been given to the impact the pandemic has had on athletic trainers. Athletic trainers are an essential member of athletic programs and a vital part of the healthcare system to ensure athletes are healthy, safe, and without injury. Athletic trainers have been on the front lines in the effort to keep athletic programs running smoothly and athletic teams safe. This research investigated the question of how have athletic trainers within the UNC System been impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. To answer this question, this research surveyed athletic trainers within the UNC System. Data collected from the survey revealed four key themes. These four themes include\; 1) an increase in workload and responsibilities, 2) furloughs, 3) mental health, and 4) How participants' answers were different based on the conference level their school is part of. This study found that the athletic trainers of the UNC-System had an increase in responsibilities and hours worked. Many of the athletic trainers worked these increases in hours and responsibilities while also taking furloughs and dealing with budget cuts from their departments. Results from the surveys also showed a major mental health concern that our athletes and athletic staff face during and before the COVID-19 Pandemic. Further studies should focus on how these impacts affected athletic trainers in the Spring semester as well as look into the mental health of our athletes and the athletic staff.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Language: English

Date: 2023

Subjects

COVID;athletic training;College Sports

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