When people think of athletic trainers, they often imagine students on the sidelines handing out water bottles. While hydration is part of the job, it barely scratches the surface of what trainers do for the athletic programs at Cypress Woods High School. These dedicated students are not just helpers; they are the backbone of the team, ensuring every player is cared for and ready to perform at their best. Marie Al-Shummary, a senior and four-year trainer at Cy Woods, shared her insights into the challenges and rewards of being “the team behind the team.”
“Yes, one of our biggest jobs is providing hydration to the players and coaches, but we are responsible for much more than that,” Marie said. “We assist with basic first aid, like taping injuries and preparing ice packs, and we work alongside the head trainer to make sure every player can play to the best of their ability. We also are responsible for doing physicals for anyone interested in getting involved in a sport so they qualify. We weigh and measure all potential players and make sure they are in good health.”
Trainers arrive earlier than everyone else to set up coolers, prepare equipment, and ensure everything is in place before practices and games even begin. Their behind-the-scenes efforts often go unnoticed, but they are critical to the success of every team.
Unlike athletes who are divided into varsity and junior varsity, trainers earn their roles based on experience and dedication.
“As a senior, I’ve had many more opportunities because of the hard work I’ve put into this program since my freshman year,” Marie said. “For first- and second-year trainers, it’s all about learning and getting used to the environment. The more experience you gain, the more tasks and responsibilities you’re able to take on.”
This progression allows trainers to grow and apply their knowledge, contributing more to their teams over time.
Many people assume that trainers only work during football season, but their responsibilities extend year-round.
“Once football season is over, we immediately start preparing for other sports like soccer, basketball, and wrestling,” Marie shared. “We provide the same care for those athletes, attending games, assisting with injuries, and keeping them hydrated.”
For Marie, boys’ soccer is her favorite sport to work with after football. “I’ve built such a strong community with the coaches and players, and I love the fast-paced nature of the game,” she said.
When asked about her favorite part of being a trainer, Marie didn’t hesitate. “I love being involved and having front-row seats to games and events,” she said. “It’s such a great community to be a part of, and I’ve built amazing relationships with the people around me.” However, the role comes with sacrifices.
“The time commitment during football season is tough. Practices and games take up a lot of time, which means missing out on other things during the school year. But at the end of the day, it’s all worth it.”
Being a trainer has profoundly impacted Marie’s high school experience.
“This program has given me a stronger sense of school pride and made me feel more connected to the people around me,” she said.
The mentorship of the head trainers has also played a significant role in her growth. “Our mentors, Mr. Villarreal, Ms. Lonon, and Ms. D, have always been there to guide us. They encourage communication and teach us not just how to be better trainers, but how to manage our time and responsibilities.”
While many trainers are interested in pursuing careers in sports medicine or related fields, Marie emphasized that the program is open to anyone.
“I don’t plan to go into the medical field—I’m more interested in engineering—but being a part of this program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made,” she said. The lessons in teamwork, responsibility, and leadership are invaluable, regardless of future career paths.