We’re continuing our staff spotlight series with Jason Bailey, Head Athletic Trainer. In honor of National Athletic Training Month, we’re excited to highlight Jason and show our appreciation for everything he and our athletic training staff do to keep our players healthy, safe, and performing at their best. Get to know Jason as he shares his background in the game and what inspires him to work in youth soccer.

What inspired you to pursue a career in athletic training?

"I had several injuries participating in sports growing up and in HS I took some athletic training classes. I got into the job to be able to help kids get back to playing the sports that they enjoy and helping them strive to be better."

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

"I have worked in Athletic Training for 19 years, and have worked 15 years with NCFC Youth, joining back in 2010!"

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

"I played several sports growing up, from bowling, basketball, baseball and soccer. Soccer was my main sport and played a few years in college."

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

"The appreciation from the parents for helping the athletes get back to the game is very grateful and one of the things that make the job better."

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

"Most rewarding part of the job is seeing the athletes enjoying their sport, especially the ones that start back from long term injuries."

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

"Most importantly, it is taking care of the body. There is a lot to that, but working hard at practice breaks down the body and very little does the athlete take the time to recover from the work. Stretching, foam rolling and taking care of nutrition is very important."

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

"Iced Caramel Macchiato"

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

"This is a good question. I wanted to be in the medical field, but working in Orthopedics would probably be the job that I would be doing."

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