Rotation 1 - Men's Basketball

My first clinical experience for spring 2009 was Men's Basketball (MBB).  Having this as my first rotation could not have been better!  The Athletic Trainer in charge of basketball is Troyce Solley.  The Level II is Dustin.  I find it hard to believe there is a better clinical experience.  This rotation fills a void that can't be replaced, especially for the things I look for the most in quality experiences...

1. Educational opportunity - Stop for a second and think!  In this type of environment, the only reason you do these things is to hopefully learn!  Now, I am a patient man, but I personally do not see the point in doing meaningless things if there is no opportunity for growth.  With that in thought, MBB was the ideal rotation because Troyce does an excellent job of combining just the right amount of instruction and involvement.  He sets reasonable expectations and grants you just enough freedom that you do not feel confined to any strict set of rules.   Although there are not many injuries that occur in basketball compared to the various contact sports, there were still plenty of chances to check for learning.  I had the pleasure of sitting through explanations and demonstrations about special topics like pain tolerance, and hear views on what sets apart one particular player from another.

2. Involvement - I never once felt alone during this clinical experience.  Troyce and Dustin both managed to find time to make sure I knew what was going on.  I think this may just be a by-product of their personalities, but if it isn't, they did an excellent job of not dumbing-down any aspect of treatments, practice/game setup, rehab, or anything related to daily operations.

3. Teachable Moments - Although there were no new major injuries, the ongoing treatments of old injuries were just as good to be a source of learning.  I feel there was not ever a moment where I did not know what was being done in terms of treatment, updates and changes in treatments, player conditions, and introductions to new methods being tried.

4. Environment - The coaches and players on the team truly respect what the athletic trainers do, and are grateful for the service they provide.  The players say "please" and "thank you," and they also fulfill their responsibilities of informing the staff of their progress during rehab or post-injury.  From my observation, I think this is a derivation of Troyce and Dustin treating and speaking to the players like adults, and not talking them down.  The respect definitely shows.

This clinical experience is definitely a quality experience.  MBB ranks #2 on my list of best clinical rotations so far.  It will be tough to beat.  And not to mention, the team went 3-0 with my presence.