Athletic Training Student Named COEHD Valedictorian
Posted: June 27, 2018 | Author: Parker Rawlins | Read Time: 2 minutes
Roy, Utah native Steven Hadley has always had a love for the world of athletics. His enjoyment of basketball, football, fishing, hiking, and spending time outdoors lead to his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in athletic training. Though he began his college career at Snow College, he chose to transfer to Southern Utah University after attending to a recruiting fair and being offered a scholarship.
“At SUU, students get to work first hand with student athletes,” said Steven. “I was the senior athletic training student assigned to the football team so I was able to travel and work closely with them all season. It was a great opportunity.”
Throughout his time at SUU, Steven worked closely with Nathan Slaughter, assistant professor of physical education and athletic training.
“During the three years that Steven has been on SUU's campus and in the athletic training program, I have had him in eight different classes,” said Slaughter. “There has not been a semester when I have not had Steven in at least one of my classes. He is a smart and personable individual who sets goals and achieves those goals through hard work and perseverance.”
SUU’s athletic training program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and designed to prepare students for a successful career in athletic training. Athletic trainers are experts in evaluating, recognizing, managing and rehabilitating injuries resulting from physical activity. SUU’s undergraduate program is unique because it gives students the opportunity to work closely with NCAA Division I college athletes, local high school sports teams, and chiropractors and physicians from throughout the southern Utah region.
Along with Steven’s practical experience in the training room, he also regularly volunteered at a local preschool, helping students with physical and occupational therapy rehabilitation.
“Athletic training is a very applicable degree for someone aspiring to be a physical therapist,” said Steven.
With graduation right around the corner, Steven says he’s ready for the next chapter in his life. After graduation, he will start physical therapy school. He’s been accepted into Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and starts classes the week after graduation.
Learn more about SUU’s Athletic Training Program.
This article was published more than 3 years ago and might contain outdated information or broken links. As a result, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.
Tags: Student Blog Graduation College of Education and Human Development
