Athletic Instructor – The possibilities for Strength & Conditioning Coaches and Athletic Trainers range from starting salaries of $22, 000 at the high school level up to over $200, 000 in the NFL or NBA.
Kerry Rosenboom, Strength & Conditioning Coordinator at Wichita State University (Kansas), suggests that anybody interested in this field of endeavor communicate with anyone already in the field or with a guidance professional in a University setting. They can slowly but surely accumulate experience as they test the waters to see if it’s really for them. “I have many student assistants who volunteer their time to get acquainted with the field. Some Universities even offer college credit for internships. The educational foundation along with networking helps to secure a comfortable position in this field. ” Rosenboom started his own independent consulting company and has many professional athletes as clients. This has proven so rewarding he’s turned down a number of offers from NFL and NBA organizations.
“This is what I was meant to do. I take my own athletic background along with the knowledge I’ve acquired and use it to better the performance of athletes of all levels. I couldn’t imagine sitting behind a desk for a living. This is a fantastic profession for anyone who is willing to work hard, has an undying devotion to working with others, and would like a professional position where, as I do, they come to work in sweats and a T-shirt. ”
As the Athletic Training field has increased in scope, so has the qualification demand. While a B. S. in an Exercise Related field is the underlying requirement, most employment ads read, “B. S. required, Masters preferred. “.