According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, the beginning of March marks the start of National Athletic Training Month, which is dedicated to “spreading awareness about the important work of athletic trainers.” Our athletic trainers Eric McClung and Ryan Daley are available after school to help student athletes with injury evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation. From providing first aid on game days to delivering water during practice, McClung and Daley work to create a healthy environment for student athletes both on the field and in the training room.
Athletic Trainer Eric McClung
Q: How long have you been working at Salem and what were you doing beforehand?
A: I started working at Salem in 2016. Prior to working for CHKD, I had been a civilian contractor working with physical therapy for the Navy. My early career started with minor league hockey.
Q: What is your favorite part about working with Salem athletes?
A: I am biased because of my time here, but I feel that our athletes are a great blend of personalities and backgrounds! That creates an environment in which it is fun to work.
Q: What are the most common injuries you see at this level?
A: The most common injuries we see would certainly lead with concussions. Following that would be ankle sprains and overuse injuries, like tendinitises.
Q: How do you help athletes with injury prevention and treatment?
A: At Salem, I would say more of the general prevention tends to be from coaches. As subject matter experts in the sport they coach, implementing preventative drills and exercises tends to occur in conditioning and warmups they design. However, I feel comfortable discussing recommendations for additions with any member of our coaching staff at Salem. I think they are just as comfortable speaking with us to ask questions or get suggestions. Our role here tends to focus more on rehab (modalities and therapeutic exercises), as well as our targeted prevention. Hopefully, getting the athlete to return to play without reinjuring or having to manage a chronic injury.
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: My most favorite thing is traveling with my wife and/or our family. It is exciting to absorb a unique experience, and even better seeing my kids react to something new to them. My day-to-day free time is either spent with family and friends, or solo going to the Y and playing video games.
Athletic Trainer Ryan Daley
Q: How long have you been working at Salem and what were you doing beforehand?
A: I have been with Salem for three years. Before that I was with OrthoVirginia at their Lynchburg office.
Q: What is your favorite part about working with Salem athletes?
A: I really enjoy working with Salem athletes. We have a great variety of personalities and talents. My favorite part overall working with them is their willingness to put forth effort to make themselves better.
Q: What are the most common injuries you see at this level?
A: This one is tough, but ankle sprains and knee tendinitis are probably the most common.
Q: How do you help athletes with injury prevention and treatment?
A: I help through education of signs and symptoms, through various exercises (depending on the injury), and many modalities such as ice, electrical stimulation, and stretching. I help put together rehab plans and teach the students how to perform each exercise.
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and gaming.
