Anyone have experience with teams?

[Alion]

I may have the opportunity to work for/with a local University swim team. Has anyone worked for a sports team before? How does it normally work, or how was it handled in your situation? Were you still able to have your own practice (if applicable)? I've only ever done athletes on an individual basis, so I am excited and also a bit apprehensive. Any input would be great!

 

[Lily<33]

Anyone have experience with teams?

Sugest you set your expectations and discuss them with the person(s) who engaged you.
Imagine the team will not require you full time attentionand a private practice will be
fine.. Sounds like a nice opportunity, interesting to see where it leads.

 

[Questioneer]

Anyone have experience with teams?

Speak to their Head Athletic Trainer (for the team and/or the University, as appropriate) first, and then also the team's Coach. Ask them their needs and expectations and inform them how you might be able to help meet those needs. They may expect you to have specific skill sets, or know how to do 5-15 minutes of extremely specific work upon command, and they will expect you to NOT exceed their directives unless given latitude to do so.

Scheduling expectations will vary from a few hours a week to daily work and traveling with the team. Consider in advance what kind of commitment you can make, and what hours you may be able to devote to working with them.

If you work with the team, would you be an employee or an independent contractor? What kind of compensation structure/rate would be provided? If this is going to work out, you need to know these things in advance.

TIP: NEVER refer to the Athletic Trainer(s) as a "trainer" - over 70% of ATCs (certified Athletic Trainers) have Masters degrees, and many have PhDs. An ATC is a licensed profession (akin to PTs, DCs, etc.) in most states, and it may be helpful to educate yourself a bit about them. ATCs are WAY more educated than the average personal trainer, and should be treated with appropriate professional respect. It is best to ALWAYS refer to them as "athletic trainer" or "ATC" - or you may blow this opportunity.

 

[??yl?]

Anyone have experience with teams?

I have been working with professional hockey players. They come to my office and pay out of their own pockets. The players just let me know what their needs are for that day

 

[Billy bob]

Anyone have experience with teams?

Thank you all for the replies.

Holley - I was actually approached by the team members, and they asked for my information to give to their coach.

JasonE - Thanks for the great tips! I'm not sure what the specifics would be yet, that's why I was wondering what the "norm" is. Kinda looking for a heads-up, ya know?

JLW- I, too, have worked with professional athletes on an individual basis. This could be a whole other bag of tricks though. It's exciting!

I am keeping contact with the team, even if I don't get "hired" they may still come to me on their own... though as college students I'm not sure how regular they will be. Either way, good deal in my opinion.

 

[WRFSLG]

Anyone have experience with teams?

I am working on a contract with a university soccer team. The way it works now is, 2 therapists one day a week for 7 hours. Each player gets 30 minutes. The university pays $35 and player pays $10 for a total of $45 per half hour per therapist. They have a team of therapists now but are not happy, and one of my regular clients is the head coach, so I am in next year if I want it. Just not sure I have the time to spare. Still gotta think about it. May be a great opportunity. And change of scenery one day a week.