Head Athletic Trainer, Football – University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
In the fast-paced world of sports medicine, Athletic Trainers play a vital role in keeping athletes healthy and performing at their best. One such dedicated professional is Dan Springer, the Head Athletic Trainer at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). With a passion for helping others and a knack for problem-solving, Springer has made significant contributions to the field of athletic training. In this blog, we delve into Springer's journey, his experiences, and how innovative products like Kinematic have revolutionized his role as an athletic trainer.
Springer grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, after moving there at a young age from Dunedin, Florida. While he didn't have a specific career in mind, his fascination with the medical field led him to consider becoming a paramedic or pharmacist. However, everything changed during his high school years when he was introduced to the world of Athletic Training.
“I was exposed to the athletic training profession in high school, and I began helping my high school athletic trainer the beginning of my freshman year,” Springer said.
After high school, Springer attended the University of Cincinnati, where he pursued his Bachelor's degree in Athletic Training. After completing his undergraduate studies in 2010, he moved to Birmingham, AL to further his education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, earning a Master of Arts in Education in 2012. It was during this time that he obtained his certification as an Athletic Trainer.
One of the aspects that Springer loves most about his profession is the unpredictable nature of each day. “No two days are alike, and you never know what challenges or injuries may walk through the door. Whether it's a minor ailment, a dislocation, or a player seeking guidance,” Springer said. He appreciates the dynamic environment that keeps him on his toes.
Springer’s career has been filled with memorable moments, but one that stands out is the time he encountered an open tibia fracture during his last game as a graduate student at UAB. The situation required quick thinking, adrenaline, and the execution of their Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Such high-pressure situations highlight the importance of athletic trainers in providing immediate care and support in times of crisis.
Throughout his career, Springer has had the opportunity to work alongside remarkable
individuals who have influenced his professional growth. From mentors and colleagues to team physicians, these connections have helped shape him into the skilled Athletic Trainer he is today. The guidance and support received from these professionals have been instrumental in his development.
For Springer, the most fulfilling aspect of his job lies in his ability to find solutions and
positively impact the lives of athletes. He takes pride in being a "fixer" and is driven by the
opportunity to expedite care and keep athletes healthy and safe. “I enjoy being able to identify a problem and being able to find a solution” Springer said. Additionally, Dan embraces administrative partnerships, constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance the quality of services provided to athletes.
As a dedicated professional, Springer's focus is on continuous growth both personally and administratively. He aims to stay present in the moment, putting his best foot forward to serve the athletes under his care. By remaining committed to professional development and embracing
new challenges, he envisions a future filled with exciting opportunities.
When discussing the tools that have significantly impacted his role as an Athletic Trainer, Springer emphasizes the revolutionary impact of the Kinematic SidelineER Pro. “The SidelineER Pro has been a true game changer for Athletics Medicine. It has allowed us to do things we used to have to go the locker room but first, and foremost, it has added the needed privacy to respect our athletes. This has also allowed us to have more productive sideline evaluations than in the past,” Springer said.
Being an athletic trainer is not just a job, but a calling. Springer’s passion for the career field is a testament for what athletic training is all about. The joy of helping athletes overcome challenges, the camaraderie within the sports medicine community, and the continuous pursuit of excellence make this profession incredibly fulfilling for Springer. We value athletic trainers like him.
Written by Allison Ragland