National Athletic Training Month Spotlight: Kacey Morrison

Bethany, W.Va. – As a part of National Athletic Training Month which runs through March of each year, Bethany College Department of Athletics would like to recognize each of its members on the Athletic Training staff. Kacey Morrison is in her second year as head athletic trainer with the Bison.

Who or what inspired you to become an athletic trainer?

From the time I suffered two significant injuries of my own in high school, I knew I wanted to go into Sports Medicine. I wasn't exactly sure which Health Professional route I wanted to go though. I fell in love with the athletic training career path working underneath my college athletic trainer in my undergraduate education. There was no going back after my time working with him.

What drew you to Bethany College?

Bethany is one of those unique places that really funnels you in. It helped that I knew our Assistant AD Mike Worrell already. But former AD Steve Thompson, who also had close ties back in my home state of Illinois, really sold me on a vision for what this Athletic Department could be. Coronavirus had already taken hold in athletics and I wanted something new to challenge myself. Bethany College, both athletically and academically, seemed to be the change I was needing.

What did your education look like in order to become an AT?

I took a less traditional route to get into the field. I wanted to work in sports medicine, but hadn't really found my niche yet so in undergrad I tried to do it all to prepare for graduate school. I triple majored in Pre-Medicine, Applied Psychology and Exercise Science. After earning my Bachelors of Science, I went on to a two year Masters of Athletic Training program so that I was able to sit for my board examination. It was a long and stress-filled 6 years, but I am glad that I had the broad undergraduate education which I believe gives me an advantage as a clinician. A master's degree is now a requirement in order to sit for your board exams in athletic training, but most programs are designed to be completed in 5 years. As Certified Athletic Trainers we are also required to submit continuing education units every two years to keep with updated research and evidence-based practices.

 What is your favorite part of the job?

The thing that I always go back to when I am worn out and having a less than spectacular work day is the relationships. I have the privilege to know athletes as individuals and not just their injury. Other sports medicine career paths are mostly utilized when something is already hurting or injured. I get to have an open door policy, minus coronavirus restraints, and know my athletes through academics, athletics and personal trials and triumphs. It is the best part of my job and I enjoy the little things everyday with those relationships that most people never see in athletic training.

How has the job of an AT changed during COVID-19?

Oh my, this is a truly loaded question…. So many things and nothing at all, if that makes sense. I still work to make the Athletic Training Room (ATR) a home away from home, all while following the restraints that the pandemic has placed upon us. It's important for me and what I do that athletes feel comfortable and have trust in our department and I think that is done best through a lens of "home". What has changed is the organizational components of compliance with pandemic policies - the testing, the spacing and limitations, as well as tracing illnesses and vaccinations. I also really never thought that I would become an expert at nasal swabs or submit continuing education units that deem me as a clinical laboratory operator or certified pandemic tracing officer.

What are some of your most memorable moments during your career?

Professionally, I love that I have the opportunity to be involved in a myriad of things… from NCAA National Championships to coordinating Conference Championships to the networking at continuing education opportunities. From a personal standpoint, there are so many little things that come to mind… a breakthrough conversation where an athlete gets everything to click, a post-surgery rehab getting to step onto their playing surface unrestricted for the first time, an unexpected note from an athlete that has nothing to do with an injury, the joy on faces when a buzzer beater falls or a walk-off goes in their favor and watching someone who deserves the world start that journey by walking across the stage at graduation.

Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally?

Professionally, I would not be where I am today without the influence of Terry Geirnaeirt, a master of time management and making it all work. He is and always will be GOALS for my career path. He is the ultimate mentor and every time we chat, it is like no time has passed at all. I do not believe I could get through even a day in this career if it weren't for my family. Yes, I have my traditional blood relatives who love and support me even when it means holidays are postponed or I am unable to make it at all for an event. But I also have the family that I have worked hard to build. Those who I may not share genetics with, but love and support me nonetheless. They are the champions in my life and on daily basis push me to be at my best in all that I do.

Student Testimonials

"Kacey and Tyler provide the absolute best care for our student-athletes. They create a positive, caring environment as well as provide reassurance to those struggling with injury. Not only are they tremendous athletic trainers, but they are also willing to help with anything going on with campus activities. They are truly the #1 fans of our teams." – Kelsie Meintel, Senior, Women's Basketball, Track & Field.

"Thanks for all that you guys do, we wouldn't be able to be out there without you two. I really appreciate everything you do, and I am grateful for making me feel comfortable in the AT room. Thanks for being way more than just the person that tapes my ankles." – Santiago Bruni, Sophomore, Men's Soccer

"When I think of Tyler and Kacey, I think of resilience, commitment, and inspirational. They are committed to providing the best service to all of my fellow student- athletes, although having crazy schedule themselves. No matter the weather, no matter their day, or the obstacles they face, they are resilient. They see failures as minor setbacks, with the ability to bounce back quickly. Whenever you come into the training room you will always be greeted with a warm hello. I'm so glad I have them as mentors in my life. If you see them, remember to tell them thank you." – Makenzee Mason, Sophomore, Women's Basketball

"AT's are my FREE Therapy succession." –Jordan Haslacker, Freshman, Swimming and Diving