That program is now well established, with 25 years of accreditation and a reputation for excellence. "We are fortunate to have the support of the administration, which has always understood the need for new facilities, equipment, and technology," says Scriber (with students, right). "And we have a good Division III athletic program."

The athletic training curriculum was established in the mid-1970s as an offshoot of the physical education department. It is now housed in the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences. It has been a major since 1987 and has grown considerably, now comprising about 75 students and 21 faculty members.

"This is a health care profession, but it is done behind the scenes," Scriber explains. The profession has evolved so that trainers, besides working for schools or pro teams, have branched out and are now also working in sports medicine and orthopedic clinics, which often contract with schools and local teams.

"We have to be the jack-of-all-trades," says Scriber. Today’s students are exposed to psychology, pharmacology, nutrition, and related areas as well as clinical work. While some graduates have become trainers at schools and with professional athletes, many others have become physical therapists, podiatrists, chiropractors, or nutritionists.

As if we need more proof of the program’s success, Scriber points out that 30 Ithaca students in the past 25 years have earned National Athletic Trainers’ Association scholarships — making them, in effect, athletic training all-Americans. That’s an impressive record, and a program of which Scriber — and the whole IC community — can be proud.  

Photo by Bill Truslow