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Abstract

Context: To the authors’ knowledge, there are few studies on how athletic trainers (ATs) are hired by NCAA institutions. Current legislation protects many demographics from discrimination during hiring, but these laws may not be enforced by institutions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe factors that might influence the hiring practices of NCAA Division II Head Athletic Trainers. Methods: We used a web-based survey (Qualtrics) that was distributed to by email to 278 NCAA Division II Head Athletic Trainers. A total of 96 ATs completed the survey (response and completion rate=34.5%). The survey included a prompt for hiring an athletic trainer for an NCAA Division II athletics program, questions on demographic data, impact of candidate demographic factors, and impact of candidate skills and education on hiring practices. After the collection window had closed, we calculated central tendencies for all responses. Results: Most ATs reported they would be most likely to hire a candidate with three to five years of experience (3-5 Years Experience=96.9%, 1-2 Years Experience=87.6%, 6-10 Years Experience=86.4%). Most ATs also reported that they would be most likely to hire a candidate with primarily collegiate athletics experience (College Experience=89.6% , High School Experience=61.5%, Clinic Experience=40.7%). Regarding education, most ATs were most likely to hire a candidate with a master’s degree in athletic training (Master’s in Athletic Training=92.8%, Masters not in Athletic Training=78.2%, Clinical Doctorate=64.5%). For demographic factors, most ATs responded in the mid-range of agreement about the impact these factors had on hiring practices. More athletic trainers stated a willingness to hire a candidate of a different race, different religion, different sex, and different sexual orientation. When asked about the credentials most likely to improve chances of being hired for candidates, ATs ranked Corrective Exercise Specialist, Graston Technique Certified, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist highest. Conclusions: Most head athletic trainers agreed that three to five years of professional experience, previous experience with collegiate athletics, and a master’s degree in athletic training were the most attractive characteristics a candidate could possess. However, many participants answered in the mid-range of agreement when asked about the effect of demographic factors on hiring practices. These responses may suggest an unwillingness to respond favorably or unfavorably on the topic. Future research should focus on examining hiring practices in a way that requires participants to respond favorably or unfavorably. Athletic trainers and administrators must work to ensure that they are hiring the best candidate regardless of demographic factors that have no bearing on performing the tasks related to the position being filled.

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