Senate 2

SENATE RESOLUTION 62

(By Senator Fuller)

[Introduced March 11, 2026]

Designating March 12, 2026, as West Virginia Athletic Trainers Day at the Legislature.

Whereas, Athletic trainers are highly qualified, multi‑skilled health care professionals who provide services including injury and illness prevention, wellness promotion and education, emergent care, examination and clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions; and

Whereas, Athletic training is recognized as an allied health profession by the American Medical Association, the Health Resources and Services Administration, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and are licensed in 49 states; and

Whereas, Athletic trainers provide medical services to a wide range of patients, not only athletes, including workers, military personnel, performing artists, students, and community members of all ages; and

Whereas, Athletic trainers help relieve workforce shortages in primary care support, outpatient rehabilitation, and other health care settings; and

Whereas, Athletic trainers deliver a continuum of care, from initial injury prevention and education to emergency response, clinical evaluation, treatment, and long‑term rehabilitation; and

Whereas, Athletic trainers are trained to identify potential injury risks and implement evidence‑based preventive strategies that reduce injury severity and recovery time; and

Whereas, Athletic trainers are often onsite during practices, competitions, and training activities, and have, on many occasions, provided immediate, life‑saving emergency care that has preserved life and prevented catastrophic outcomes; and

Whereas, Athletic trainers are qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and manage injuries, and to facilitate critical communication among coaches, physicians, parents, and the injured individual, ensuring coordinated and timely care; and

Whereas, West Virginia has demonstrated its commitment to expanding access to athletic training services through legislative efforts such as the West Virginia Secondary School Athletic Trainer and Career Technical Education Program Act, which aims to place licensed athletic trainers in all public secondary schools; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby designates March 12, 2026, as West Virginia Athletic Trainers Day at the Legislature; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate hereby recognizes athletic trainers in West Virginia for their dedication, expertise, and essential contributions to the public health of individuals and communities.