Faculty in the Departments of Kinesiology and Physical Therapy made a stop in Boston earlier this month to attend the 2016 Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association (EATA) Meeting and Clinical Symposium, held January 8-11.
Dr. Paul Ullucci, assistant professor of physical therapy, received the distinction of delivering the William E. “Pinky” Newell Memorial Address. The EATA awards this honor each year to an individual that has made an impact on the athletic training profession, both nationally and regionally, and has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to the athletic training profession, continued learning and professional growth, involvement in education, and a balanced lifestyle – all characteristics attributed to Newell.
Known as the father of modern athletic training, Newell served as the head athletic trainer at Purdue University and was the former executive secretary of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (in which EATA falls under), where he is considered one of the association’s founders. He is credited with changing the profession of athletic training into an allied health field that is well-respected by the medical community.
“It is incredibly humbling to be able to present the “Pinky” Newell address,” said Ullucci. “Pinky’s impact on the profession of athletic training and athletic training education specifically is unparalleled. I hope that by emphasizing the importance of expanding the quantity, while ensuring the quality, of experiential learning within athletic training education in my speech that I managed to channel his spirit and enthusiasm for the profession and its students.”
Ullucci has been an active member of the EATA since 1991, and was elected president in 2001, where he served three two-year terms as president elect, president and past president. He continued to serve on their executive board as District I treasurer and then District I director from 2008 to 2014.
Among his various roles in the EATA, Ullucci has also been instrumental in increasing the number of scholarships and research grants provided by the association. This led to his creation of the Francis J. George Scholarship Fund for doctoral students studying and working within the EATA.
The EATA, which is the largest and oldest regional association for athletic trainers in the world, provided tremendous opportunities to grow professionally and as a leader within the profession, said Ullucci.
Dr. Luke Pryor, assistant professor of kinesiology, was also honored at the EATA Symposium with the 2015 EATA Research Grant for his study, “Effectiveness of an Intermittent Heat Exposure Protocol to Maintain Heat Acclimation.”
“Our data are the first to provide empirical evidence to support the effectiveness of an intermittent heat exposure protocol to sustain the protective effects of adapting to the heat, reducing exertional heat illness risk in recreational and occupational athletes,” said Pryor, who specializes in the area of heat and hydration on thermoregulation and endurance performance.
In addition to the grant, Pryor was given the opportunity to present his findings to the near 800 athletic trainers in attendance.
Dr. Scott Sailor, chair and professor of the Department of Kinesiology, also attended the Symposium, where he serves as president of the NATA.
The EATA strives to advance the profession of athlete training by providing its members with quality educational programs, as well as scholarships and research opportunities for students and certified members. Learn more about the organization at the link.
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