Behind the Scenes: Athletic Trainer Lisa White
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The first profile centers on injury prevention and rehabilitation of the players.
Nyliberty.com sat down with Liberty Athletic Trainer Lisa White on how she got started, her challenges and much more!
Question: How did you get started in athletic training?
Lisa White: I was introduced to athletic training my freshman year in college. Prior to that, I didn't know what an athletic trainer (ATC) was. I played basketball in high school but we did not have an ATC on staff. During my freshman year in college while playing basketball, I witnessed the team ATC at work and was fascinated with how she could distinguish between various injuries. At that time, I decided it was something I wanted to do.
Q: For those fans that don't know what athletic training is all about, can you explain what the job entails?
LW: The job entails evaluating injuries and then taking the athlete through various exercises that will help them get them back to playing as soon as possible. Athletic trainers try to focus on prevention but when injuries do occur, we try to strengthen the muscles by doing various exercises. Prevention can consist of taping ankles before practices and games, stretching, and conditioning.
Q: What injury in your professional career has been the most challenging for you?
LW: Once I had a lacrosse player who dislocated his knee (not his kneecap). The injury required extensive surgery and rehabilitation. But I am happy to say that he did return to playing lacrosse!
Q: During the offseason, are there any specific conditioning regimens that are required of the New York Liberty players?
LW: Although many of the players are overseas during the WNBA offseason, I do provide them with an off-season strength and conditioning program. I then follow up with them monthly to talk about the program and follow their progress. The regimen includes strengthening exercises (both upper body and lower body) as well as cardiovascular work (biking, treadmill, Stairmaster, etc).
Q: As a former collegiate athlete, is your playing experience an advantage in relating to the players when it comes to ailments and injuries?
LW: I absolutely think that being an athlete helps. I am able to understand the competitiveness and disappointment when an injury occurs. I am also more sympathetic while still understanding what it takes to return to play.
Q: What do you enjoy most about being an athletic trainer and a member of the Liberty organization?
LW: I enjoy being around elite athletes and having the opportunity to help make a difference in their professional career. I also enjoy working for a first class organization and a great staff.