Education is the foundation of any career, but rising costs within our society present a challenge for many healthcare professionals, including Athletic Trainers (AT). Within many school and worksite settings, Athletic Trainers are the first point of contact in many health-related situations and often the bridge to athletes, workers, and community members seeking further care. Their role within the communities they serve is essential, and as a result of advocacy efforts, legislators in the state of Alabama are recently passed HB288 to Governor Kay Ivey’s desk for signing to provide loan assistance for Alabama Athletic Trainers.  

“Along with our partnership with the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE), we are confident that this law will be a beacon to show everyone that Alabama is serious about supporting the recruitment and retention of ATs into our secondary schools,” ATI Sports Medicine Manager and Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association Chris King said.

The bill establishes a loan assistance program through the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) for licensed ATs working in public k-12 schools. Eligible athletic trainers can receive up to $7,500 per year or $3,750 per semester for up to four consecutive years to help repay federal student loans.

 “We are hopeful that this may erase the financial anxiety of a student from entering our profession,” King continued. “We hope that not only present ATs will come to our state, but also future MAT students will choose to be educated here in one our outstanding athletic training programs.”