Essential Equipment for Secondary School Athletic Training Facility

As secondary school athletics continue to grow in competitiveness and intensity, the need for a well-equipped athletic training facility becomes increasingly important. Athletic trainers are health-care professionals who play a critical role in injury prevention, emergency care, evaluation and rehabilitation and ideally if a school has competitive athletics, they employ an athletic trainer either full time or through a third party such as a hospital or doctor. To do their jobs effectively, the athletic trainer needs access to the right equipment in a dedicated space.

For administrators and coaches, understanding the core necessities of an athletic training facility is key to ensuring student-athletes receive high-quality care while minimizing risk and liability. Regardless of the size of the facility, there is a basic list of equipment that will help to ensure that high-quality care is provided. If the athletic trainer does not have the ability to order their own supplies and equipment, it is vital that administrators and coaches collaborate with their athletic trainer to identify what they would need to be effective at their job.

A properly equipped facility definitely matters when it comes to health and safety of the student-athletes that attend the school. A functional athletic training facility is more than just a room with a few supplies. First and foremost, it’s a health-care space. When equipped appropriately, it allows athletic trainers to respond quickly to injuries as well as providing preventative care at the same time. It also provides an environment that supports safe return-toplay decisions. Finally, it will allow for effective documentation and communication of health information to not only other health-care providers but also parents and the coaching staff.

Without the right tools, the athletic trainer may be limited in their ability to provide care, which can lead to longer recovery times, increased injury risk and potential legal exposure for the school district.

There are several core equipment categories that should be available – regardless of the size of the facility – with the first being treatment and taping tables. These pieces of equipment/furniture are the backbone of any athletic training room. They provide a stable surface for evaluations, taping and basic treatments. If space allows there should be two to three padded treatment tables and at least one dedicated taping station with storage for tape, pre-wrap, scissors and gloves.

Having additional taping tables would be better if there is additional staff that can help taping and bandaging. If money is available, tables with adjustable height and durable surfaces to accommodate different athletes and treatment needs allow the athletic trainer to be able to provide a variety of treatments easier. Having the treatment and taping tables is one part of the equation, but it is essential that the athletic training facility be stocked with items that may be described as disposable. This includes tape and wrapping supplies as well as things like adhesive bandages, gauze and rubber gloves just to name a few items. Depending on how much preventative taping will be done, the facility will need several boxes of athletic tape (e.g., 1.5” non-elastic athletic tape, sometimes called “coach” or “white” tape).

Other taping-related items that should be stocked are pre-wrap (e.g., underwrap) and elastic athletic tape (e.g., PowerFlex, cohesive stretch tape, etc.). It may take two to three years before the school identifies how much tape needs to be purchased. This will flex depending on the athletic trainer, number of teams, number of athletes, coaching styles, etc. Even after a better “average” is identified, the amount of tape needed will ebb and flow depending on the aforementioned variables.

Other items that will help in the day-to-day efforts to improve the health and safety of the student-athletes are modalities – equipment that helps with managing pain, inflammation and muscle tightness. Cold modalities include ice machines (capable of producing large quantities daily – also helpful for exertional heat stroke treatment and hydration), reusable cold packs and ice bath or whirlpool tubs (if space and budget allow). Equipment that could be used for heat therapy is varied, but a common one is a hydrocollator unit with moist heat packs. Regardless of the equipment, it is important to ensure proper electrical setup and drainage for hydrotherapy equipment including a GFI outlet.

For the athletic trainer, rehabilitation is a key part of injury recovery and return-to-play protocols. Because of that there are inexpensive pieces of equipment that can greatly benefit the student- athletes. Resistance bands, small dumbbells and tubing all are helpful when completing rehabilitative exercises. Other items that will be used in rehabilitative exercises include balance boards, BOSU balls, foam rollers, stretching mats, ankle weights and medicine balls.

If the facility is able to have a stationary bike or elliptical machine that would help in not only warm up but also conditioning for the injured student-athlete. Other tools that could help athletic trainers guide athletes through progressive rehab programs tailored to their sport and injury are mini hurdles or agility ladders.

Obviously having lifesaving equipment is critical for the athletic trainer and the facility. Every facility should have an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) as well as CPR masks, vacuum splints, a cervical collar, multiple sizes of crutches, and a rectal thermometer. Best practice for exertional heat stroke is whole body cooling, and that is best achieved by having a cold-water immersion tub. Also, there should be multiple stocked first aid kits available for not only home events, but for when teams go out of town for contests. It is also imperative that emergency equipment be inspected regularly and stored in clearly marked and accessible locations.

It also is important for the facility to have efficient organization so that there is improved response time and reduces clutter. Lockable cabinets for medications and sensitive supplies are highly recommended while having open shelving for braces, wraps and towels with a labeling system for quick identification is important. Having mobile “golf” carts for sideline transport of supplies and injured student-athletes would also be beneficial.

Modern athletic training includes digital documentation and communication. To properly document the athletic trainer will need a computer or tablet with secure access to injury tracking software. Also access to a printer/scanner for medical forms and referrals as well as Wi-Fi access for real-time updates and communication is important in today’s technology-driven world. Other communication tools are two-way radios or cell phones for on-field emergencies. Any software used for electronic medical records should have secure access to student health records (with proper privacy protocols).

Even with the right equipment, the layout and location of the athletic training facility matter. Oftentimes, the athletic training facility was originally designed for a different use and then the focus of the facility was changed. If, however, the facility is being designed with the idea that it will be an athletic training facility, there are several design features that should be taken into account. Ideally it will be near athletic fields or gym for quick access with enough space for multiple athletes without crowding. It should also have good airflow to reduce odors and promote hygiene. Other considerations are bright, natural or LED lighting for clear visibility and ADA-compliant entrances and treatment area. Finally, remember that this is a health-care space where there are confidential conversations.

If starting from scratch, schools with limited budgets start with the essentials and build over time. Priority should be given to emergency equipment, treatment tables, cold therapy tools and basic rehab supplies. Administrative staff should collaborate with the athletic trainer to identify gaps and prioritize purchases based on athlete needs and injury trends. There are grant opportunities available. Administrators should look into state health initiatives, local foundations or partnerships with hospitals and universities for funding support.

A well-equipped athletic training facility reflects a school’s commitment to student-athlete health and safety. By investing in the right equipment and collaborating with your athletic trainer, administrators and coaches can create a space that supports injury prevention, efficient care and long-term athlete development.

Whether the school is building a new facility or upgrading an existing one, start with the essentials and grow from there. Not only the student-athletes, but also the athletic program will benefit for years to come.

Samantha Scarneo-Miller, PhD, ATC is Clinical Assistant Professor, Athletic Training at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.