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Being an AT in Georgia is a lot like being an AT in Texas. Rob Dicks knew he wanted to become an AT by the time he started high school. He is now leading the Georgia Athletic Trainers Association.
Podcast Summary
This episode features Jeremy Jackson and Rob Dix, the current President of the Georgia Athletic Trainers Association (GATA). Rob shares his journey from a 14-year-old aspiring ‘sports doctor' to a seasoned Athletic Trainer, driven by an early interaction with an AT after an MCL sprain. He recounts his experience balancing a high-achieving student life and a career that included internships with the Buccaneers and the Falcons. Rob eventually prioritized family, leading him to a 22-year career at Lagrange College, where he transitioned through several administrative and leadership roles, culminating as an Associate AD before returning to high school athletics at Callaway High School.
Rob discusses his leadership philosophy, ‘We are better together,' and his role as a servant leader for GATA members. He highlights his commitment to mentorship, including co-founding a large support group/think tank for brown and black athletic trainers. On the legislative front, Rob addresses current challenges facing AT in Georgia, such as opposition to updating the Practice Act and the exclusion of athletic trainers from a dry needling bill that could make the practice illegal for ATs in the state. Despite the challenges, Rob notes Georgia's leadership in the profession: the state is now number one nationally for heat illness policies and is a top contender for secondary school AT hiring and salary data. The ultimate goal is to place an AT in every school system with athletics.
Show Notes: The State of AT in Georgia with Rob Dix
- Host: Jeremy Jackson
- Guest: Rob Dix, President of the Georgia Athletic Trainers Association (GATA)
- Website Link: sportsmedicinepodcast.com/ATinGeorgia
Episode Highlights
Rob Dix discusses his passion for athletic training, his pivot from an NFL career path to collegiate and high school settings, and his dedication to leadership and mentorship within the profession.
Key Takeaways for AT in Georgia:
- The Journey to AT: Rob's interest began at 14, influenced by his high school coach and solidified by his first AT, Jenny, after an MCL sprain in 10th grade.
- A Career Pivot: After working with the Falcons, Rob chose a career path at Lagrange College (22 years) to better prioritize his family life.
- Leadership Philosophy: Rob leads with the motto, ‘We are better together,' viewing his role as serving the needs of GATA members.
- Mentorship & Community: Rob is a dedicated preceptor and helped start a support group/think tank for brown and black ATs, which has grown to over 1,600 members.
- Practice Act Challenges: A major focus for GATA is navigating legislative challenges, including opposition to the Practice Act update and the exclusion of AT in Georgia from a dry needling bill.
- Georgia as a Leader: Georgia is ranked number one in the nation for heat illness policies and is a leader in secondary school AT hiring and compensation, making it an attractive state for practicing AT in Georgia.
Connect with Rob Dicks:
- Email: rob.dicks.sr@gmail
- Instagram: Rob_dsr
- Facebook: Rob Dicks
Group: The Brown and Black AT Think Tank (contact Rob for involvement)
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