Parker named head athletic trainer at Thomas University
Post Published On:Thomas University officials recently named Daniel Parker as its head athletic trainer. Parker was previously assistant athletic trainer since the fall of 2012.
“Daniel has been an incredible asset to TU Athletics for several years,” Rick Pearce, Athletics Director, said. “In this new position, he’ll do a great job leading the effort to make sure our student-athletes are in top shape.”
Athletic training at TU is designed to prevent injuries, evaluate student-athletes who may have suffered an injury, and offer aid. TU’s Athletic Training Room, located inside the Student Life Center on the Magnolia Campus, is a 1,600 square-foot facility equipped with observation tables, first aid supplies, rehabilitation equipment, and an 800-square foot cold whirlpool room.
A native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Parker earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Okaloosa Walton College, a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Florida State University, and a Master of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Valdosta State University.
During his undergraduate years, Parker served as a student athletic trainer at Florida State University. He worked with the football team (2007-2008), baseball team (2008-2009), and men’s and women’s track and field program (Fall 2009).
Prior to joining Thomas University, Parker served as a graduate assistant at Valdosta State from August 2010 to May 2012. Parker split his time between the Blazers’ football, women’s basketball and cheerleading programs.
“During my interview at TU, I felt at home,” Parker said. “TU has provided an opportunity to be a part of a growing athletic department, have an impact on that growth, and create a sense of pride for the university.”
During his tenure at Thomas University, Parker helped establish TU as a clinical site for Valdosta State University’s Athletic Training Education Program. In his role as the Clinical Education Coordinator in this program, Parker coordinated the weekly schedules, skill assessments, and evaluations of the VSU staff while providing instruction and direction to students in their clinical practices.
“It means a great deal to be named head athletic trainer at Thomas University,” Parker said. “This felt like an acknowledgment of the dedication through the years to providing the best possible care for our student-athletes. For me this is a reminder of the journey as well as the athletes, coaches and colleagues along the way that have helped me reach this position. Fostering positive relationships will remain the goal and to continue providing more than medical coverage to our student-athletes. TU has grown into my extended family and provided a second place to call home. TU is a place I take pride in.”
Parker is a member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), Southeastern Athletic Training Association (SEATA) and Georgia Athletic Training Association (GATA). He is licensed by the Georgia Board of Athletics Trainers and is certified by the NATA and the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer. At TU Parker also teaches courses in sports management as well as coaching theories and methods.
