The University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Training Program

✨ What an incredible weekend at the Southern Miss Athletic Training Student Aide Workshop! ✨

Students from across the region (and beyond) came together to move, practice, learn, and grow while developing the skills that help keep athletes safe and performing at their best. From taping and wrapping techniques to injury evaluation, emergency care, special tests, and hands-on assessment skills, participants challenged themselves, refined their abilities, and gained valuable insight into the world of athletic training.

Beyond the skills labs, the workshop was filled with collaboration, new friendships, mentorship opportunities, and conversations about the future of sports medicine. It was inspiring to see high school and college students sharing a passion for helping others and taking the next steps in their healthcare journeys.

A huge thank you to our attendees, instructors, faculty speakers, athletic training students, and volunteers who made this year's workshop such a success. Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn are what continue to make this event special.

📸 Check out some of our favorite moments from the weekend!

Already wishing you could do it again? Don't worry—we're already looking forward to next year's workshop. Stay tuned for details about the 2027 Athletic Training Student Aide Workshop and get ready for even more hands-on learning, skill development, and sports medicine fun!

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This morning at the Mississippi Athletic Trainers' Association Symposium our rising second year students had the opportunity to present their research projects to athletic trainers from across the state of Mississippi. From examining the impact of jugular vein compression collars to surgical outcomes following first rib resection, their work reflects months of dedication and collaboration with faculty mentors.

We’re incredibly proud of the professionalism and passion our students displayed—and grateful to our alumni, preceptors, and Mississippi athletic trainers who took the time to engage, ask thoughtful questions, and support their learning experience.

Last night, we got to watch several of our preceptors and alumni win awards at the Mississippi Athletic Trainers' Association annual convention. Kevin "Doc" Mauldin won Secondary School Athletic Trainer of the year. An award well deserved for all the hard work he pours into Oak Grove High School. Pedro Moreno was inducted into the MATA Hall of Hame, the highest honor available in our association. Through Encore Rehabilitation and Petal High School, Pedro has touched the lives of so many people. Half the room stood up when asked how many people has Pedro provided education to that were present. Richard "Richey" Woods was also inducted into the MATA Hall of Fame. Richey Woods is one of the biggest advocates for the profession of athletic training and for the University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Training Program. Richey, behind the scenes, helped make our 50th year party last year one of the best celebrations ever. Three awards, for three GreAT humans, and amazing athletic trainers. Thank you for all you've done and all you do.

GreAT turnout by our alumni, current/former faculty, and students at the MATA state meeting in Biloxi!

The University of Southern Mississippi alumni and Southern Miss Athletic Training students at 2026 MATA Symposium!

Yesterday, the MSAT Class of 2026 participated in the first bi-annual School of Health Professions Showcase! This event allowed our graduating students to present their research projects, along with students from across SHP, to family and friends.

Throughout their time in the program, students work one-on-one with faculty to develop and produce a culminating research project. Our students presented on topics ranging from burnout of athletic training students and professionals to neuromuscular fatigue in pickleball athletes!

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

Several faculty members of The University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Training Program were recognized at various awards events last week! Dr. G was recognized as CNHP Alumni of the Year at our annual college awards banquet, and he was also recognized at our University Faculty & Staff Awards event for receiving a Coursera mini-grant. Dr. Lee was recognized at the University Faculty & Staff Awards event for receiving a Lucas Endowment. Dr. Parr was recognized at the University Faculty & Staff Awards event for being a Provost Faculty Fellow as well as completing the Faculty Leadership Institute program this year.

Hands-on learning in action 👐

Our athletic training students recently participated in a faculty-led workshop exploring advanced manual therapy techniques—including dry needling demos, IASTM, and cupping (yes, even fire cupping 🔥)!

We partnered with the USM Athletic Training Club to ensure students gain the tools and the proper training to translate these skills into their future practice.

Each year the Athletic Training Program, School of Health Professions, and College of Nursing and Health Professions has the opportunity to honor students for their success and contributions to USM! This year we are honored to recognize our award winners -

Jim Gallaspy Athletic Training Student of the Year - Ria Singh
Todd McCall Athletic Training Student of the Year - Chad Hanes
Athletic Training Leadership Award - Aubri Maroney
Athletic Training Academic Award - Ria Singh & Chad Hanes

Please help up in congratulating Ria, Aubri, and Chad!

Make sure to register soon for the student workshop! Only 10 more days until registration cost goes up for commuters and registration closes for those staying overnight.

Registration is now LIVE for the 2026 Athletic Training Student Aide Workshop! Follow the QR code in the image or click the link below to register. Early registration ends on May 15th, so act now to get the best prices. Let us know if you have any questions or problems with the registration process!
https://commerce.cashnet.com/usmSOHP