Policy on Student Participation in Intercollegiate Athletics

Because of the intimate relationship between athletics and Athletic Training, many prospective students who express interest in the Heidelberg College Athletic Training Education Program are also interested in participating in intercollegiate athletics. We have had many alumni in our ATEP who were successful in balancing both the demanding curriculum of the ATEP and intercollegiate athletics. The ATEP does have a significant clinical component which requires a strong commitment on behalf of the student. This involves a weekly average of 20 hours that includes a combination of morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend time commitments. Time conflicts between sport demands and clinical requirements may occur if careful planning is not taken into consideration. The Athletic Training Faculty and Staff are committed to encouraging students and assisting them in taking advantage of the many opportunities afforded to them at Heidelberg College. We are also dedicated to guiding the student and the student-athlete so they fulfill the graduation requirements of the Athletic Training major, have diverse and quality clinical experiences, and graduate in within the four year plan. The following guidelines are designed to help accomplish these goals:

• The intention on the part of a prospective student to participate in intercollegiate athletics shall not factor into the admissions decision for the ATEP.
• Athletic training students shall limit their participation to one intercollegiate team.
• Participation in the student-athlete’s non-traditional season is subject to the availability of their schedule only after fulfillment of their clinical rotation responsibilities.
• Athletic training students who participate in intercollegiate athletics must, like all students, fulfill all the didactic and clinical program requirements before they may graduate. All such students are strongly encouraged to consult with the ATEP Director for effective planning to ensure on-time graduation.
• All students are required to have at least “equipment intensive” clinical experience (e.g. football). Student-athletes who play a Fall sport may achieve this requirement through a clinical rotation assignment at one of our affiliated sites.