From the sidelines to the training room, Sarah Finkel is dedicated to supporting student athletes at North Central College (NCC), Illinois. As a professional athletic trainer, she’s seen the impact of sports injuries firsthand – and she’s determined to be a role model for women in what remains a male-dominated field.
I’m here because I’m qualified and I know what I’m doing.
Building a Career in Athletic Training
For Sarah, the path to athletic training started in high school. ‘I’ve always envisioned having a career in sport,’ she says. ‘When I got to NCC, I was inspired by the athletic training team, mostly led by women. It was motivating to work with powerful and inspiring women who were respected by male coaches and athletes.’
Now at NCC, Sarah is responsible for preventative rehab, diagnostics, and therapeutic interventions for student athletes. ‘I’m currently assigned to the soccer and softball teams this year,’ she explains. ‘But I was previously involved mainly with the American football team, which was an incredible experience.’
Breaking Stereotypes, Making Impact
Despite her success, Sarah has faced her share of challenges. ‘When I worked in high school, several parents, fans and even opposing coaches were sceptical that a woman could be an athletic trainer,’ she says. ‘But I’m here because I’m qualified and I know what I’m doing.’
Sarah also highlights the issue of gender pay disparity. ‘There’s still a significant pay gap between men and women in the same roles,’ she notes. ‘It’s something we need to keep pushing to change.’
Vouch for yourself and your skills
and keep proving people wrong.
Rising Awareness for Athletic Trainers
Recently, Sarah has noticed a growing awareness of the crucial role athletic trainers play in sport – especially after Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest incident in January 2023. ‘He would have died on the field were it not for the quick actions of the athletic training team,’ she says. ‘People don’t often realise how much work goes on before and after a game, especially when addressing the needs of individual athletes in multiple sports.’
Looking Ahead
For Sarah, the future is about visibility and advocacy. ‘I think more women will step into leadership roles in athletic training across all major sports,’ she says. ‘I’d love to see a female Head of Athletic Training in the NFL – why not?’
And her advice for women looking to break into athletic training? ‘Vouch for yourself and your skills and keep proving people wrong. Make connections, seek mentors, and never let anyone tell you that you don’t belong.’
