On Friday nights, fans cheer as Allen Eagles take the field. Along the sidelines, student athletic trainers focus on keeping athletes prepared and supported. Through Allen High School's sports medicine program, students gain hands-on healthcare experience while finding a sense of community on a large campus.
The work begins long before game day. Student trainers arrive early to prepare fields, tape athletes, and help players stay hydrated during practices and games.
For Kristine, a four-year program member, that commitment often begins before sunrise.
"From Monday to Wednesday, we have practices as early as like 5:20 a.m.," said Kristine, Allen High School student athletic trainer. "We're always setting up the field, pre-game, making sure they're all taped, and making sure they're getting their electrolytes."
Beyond supporting athletic teams, students learn alongside licensed professionals and explore potential careers in healthcare.
"I personally want to go into the medical field, and it's really good experience," said Sutton, Allen High School student athletic trainer.
The program also builds relationships between trainers and athletes throughout practices, injuries, and recovery.
"You see them when they're injured, you see them when they're healthy. You see them in school, you see them outside of school, and just being there and being able to help them is just so rewarding," said Keltie, Allen High School student athletic trainer.
Keltie plans to pursue a master's degree in sports exercise science and kinesiology at Texas State University or UT Arlington, with the goal of becoming a certified athletic trainer.
At a school with countless opportunities, the sports medicine program gives students a place to build skills, form friendships, and prepare for the future. For these student trainers, the sidelines have become a place to belong and discover a passion for helping others.