Student Works With Athletes at California Winter League
June, 2011
University of Arkansas graduate student Suzanne Butz avoided the harsh winter weather in Northwest Arkansas; rather, she spent the cold winter months in sunny California. Butz was selected for a two-month athletic training internship program with the California Winter League in Palm Springs.
As an athletic trainer intern, Butz had the opportunity to work with professional players and managers; she managed the training and medical needs of 100 free agent baseball players. Butz completed her internship while pursuing a Master of Athletic Training degree from the College of Education and Health Professions.
The California Winter League is an instructional program, which includes training and conditioning for current and future professional players. Players travel to the west coast to prepare for the spring and summers season with hopes of obtaining a coveted spot on the roster of a Major League Baseball affiliate or independent team.
Butz says as an athletic trainer with the California Winter League, she was able to learn how to “maintain composure and gain confidence” working alongside professionals. As a female athletic trainer, she feels she had a unique experience working with the players.
“I had to prove myself as a professional trainer and gain trust with the athletes,” Butz said.
During her time at the university, Butz, who is from Bradley, Ill., has had opportunities to work with the Fayetteville High School football program and the University of Arkansas Razorback football and baseball teams. She credits her work with these programs as “great experience” in preparing her for the California Winter League internship.
By Allison Wise, University Relations Intern
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