LOCK HAVEN — Sam Betz is making an impact in his hometown. As a certified athletic trainer at Danville Area High School, he plays a key role in keeping student-athletes healthy and safe.
“Every day brings something new,” Betz, 23, says. “Athletic training covers a wide range of responsibilities.” His tasks include assessing injuries, offering treatment, and overseeing physical registration for athletes.
Betz’s journey began when he was a curious co-op student, spending afternoons in the athletic training room under the guidance of John Zayas, the school’s athletic trainer. “I saw firsthand the care involved in building relationships with athletes,” he recalls. “Helping someone recover from an injury and return to their sport is incredibly rewarding.”
After high school, Betz chose to study athletic training at Lock Haven University. “The campus felt right, and the faculty’s passion made it easy to decide,” he explains. His education included subjects like anatomy and sports psychology, which laid a strong foundation for his future career.
During his graduate studies, Betz honed his skills further. The cadaver lab was particularly impactful, allowing him to connect classroom concepts with real human anatomy. “Seeing muscles and tendons in person made everything come alive,” he says.
Clinical rotations are essential for athletic training students. Betz’s experience ranged from Lock Haven to Lycoming College, where he worked with multiple sports teams. His immersion experience at Clemson University’s track and field department was the highlight of his training. “It taught me about injury rehabilitation and the importance of being prepared for any situation,” he notes. “Sometimes, it’s as simple as remembering to bring the right equipment.”
Athletic trainers like Betz are crucial in preventing injuries and understanding how different sports impact athletes. “Injuries vary greatly,” he notes. “Swimming often leads to shoulder issues, while football tends to have more acute injuries.”
Betz attributes his confidence and skill set to Lock Haven’s strong program. “We received support in both academics and practical experience,” he says. “Everything I learned translates to helping athletes, which is rewarding.”
Recently, the growing role of athletic trainers has garnered attention. According to a 2022 survey by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, 61% of high schools in the U.S. employ at least one certified athletic trainer. This shift emphasizes the importance of physical health in school sports.
As Sam Betz continues to build relationships with athletes at Danville, he reflects on how far he’s come. “It’s special to return to my roots and make a difference,” he says. Today, he stands ready to support the next generation of athletes, just as those before him did.
To learn more about athletic training and its vital role in schools, check the National Athletic Trainers’ Association website here.
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Community,Commonwealth University-Lock Haven 3+2 athletic training grad serves hometown high school
