We’re continuing our staff spotlight series with Mallory Wells, Athletic Trainer. In honor of National Athletic Training Month, we’re excited to highlight Mallory and show our appreciation for everything she and our athletic training staff do to keep our players healthy, safe, and performing at their best. Get to know mallory as she shares her background and what inspires her to work in youth soccer.

What inspired you to pursue a career in athletic training?

"I was inspired by my high school athletic trainer. As a multi-sport athlete, I saw him a few times my freshman year and thought his job was really cool. Found out there were classes for it and took them the next 3 years and determined this was the job for me."

How long have you worked in athletic training, and when did you join NCFC Youth?

"I have worked in athletic training for 6 years now. I officially started at NCFC in October of 2022 but had covered tournaments and summer camps since 2021."

Did you play sports growing up? If so, what did you play?

"Growing up my three main sports were competitive cheerleading for 13 years, then volleyball and track all through middle and high school."

What’s something you love about athletic training that you didn’t expect?

"I was surprised to find I enjoy getting to teach athletes, parents, and occasionally coaches about injuries and the treatments/rehab we are doing to help the injuries. Getting to educate them so they can better help themselves when an athletic trainer isn't around and how excited they are to let me know they used that information when they come back is really fun for me."

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

"Seeing the athlete return pain free after injury and how proud they are after their first practice/game post-injury.'"

What’s your biggest piece of advice for athletes when it comes to staying healthy?

"Sometimes the boring maintenance for your body can make the biggest impact in your health and performance. Staying hydrated, resting your body, stretching, properly fueling the body; they all make more of a difference than you think."

What’s your go-to coffee order (or favorite drink)?

"I make my coffee at home. Blueberry coffee with zero sugar french vanilla creamer. But my favorite drink is probably a diet coke or diet Dr pepper."

If you weren’t an athletic trainer, what career do you think you’d have?

"I've had my mind set since I was a sophomore in high school so I'm really not sure. Probably another healthcare career."

Mallory plays a key role on the sidelines in supporting the health and safety of our players. We’re thankful to have her and our entire athletic training staff caring for NCFC Youth every day.