In the Trenches: An Athletic Trainer's Role Behind Olympic Success
WaveOn Agent Nicole Alexander spent her summer with the United States Women's Basketball Team in Paris, competing for their eighth Olympic gold medal. While the city buzzed with the energy of competition, she and the athletes, focused and determined, prepared to perform on the world’s biggest stage.
Learn more about Nicole and the monumental moment, both with the team and in her career.
What was your role at the Olympics, and how did you get involved in this position?
Nicole: I am one of two Athletic Trainers for the Women's National Basketball Team. My journey with USA Basketball (USAB) began in 2015 when I worked as an athletic trainer for the World University Games. This experience opened the door to more opportunities, and I continued my involvement with USAB in 2018 and 2019, working with Junior National teams. After starting my career in the WNBA, I was asked to join the national team, which eventually led to my invitation to the Olympics.
Can you describe a typical day for you during the Olympic Games?
Nicole: A typical day at the Olympics starts with breakfast, followed by pre-practice treatments. After treatments, we head to practice, where the first 30 minutes are dedicated to taping athletes at the gym. The gym in Paris can be quite warm, so we prioritize hydration, with Liquid IV and Right Stuff being popular choices among the athletes. Since these athletes are not acclimatized to an 87-degree gym, maintaining their hydration is crucial.
On game days, we start treatments about two hours before leaving for the arena. All taping is done at the arena. During games, in addition to my athletic training duties, I also assist with managing towels on the bench. With limited personnel allowed courtside, it’s essential that everyone contributes, making it an all-hands-on-deck effort.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your role?
Nicole: One of the biggest challenges of working at the Olympics is navigating the restrictions on what medications and supplements athletes can take. Every over-the-counter medication or supplement must be carefully checked to ensure it’s legal. The rules can vary depending on whether the athlete is in or out of a competition period, so there’s a lot of scrutiny involved. You can never be too careful.
How do you deal with unexpected issues or crises that arise during the Games?
Nicole: There is a lot of support in place during the Games. Although there are restrictions on who can be courtside, an entire team supports us from the hotel. This team includes the USAB Medical Director, Ed LaCerte, and multiple physicians. They have established relationships with hospital staff in Paris, ensuring that in the case of a crisis, we have the necessary support and resources.
What has been your most rewarding experience working at the Olympics?
Nicole: Being an athletic trainer on this stage is incredibly rewarding. I often describe ATCs (Athletic Trainers Certified) as the "in the trenches" workers because much of our work happens behind the scenes. Knowing that my behind-the-scenes efforts have brought me to this level is very special. But more importantly, knowing that I’ve helped athletes compete at the highest level is the most rewarding part of being an ATC.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to be an AT at the Olympics?
Nicole: My advice is to be willing to continue doing the small things. Our team played a role in everything, from creating supply lists and reaching out to athletes' current athletic trainers for special instructions to checking the safety of over-the-counter medications, making heel and lace pads, and more. Work hard at the big things, but never forget the small details. And above all, be grateful for every step of the journey.
What are the biggest challenges you've faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Nicole: Burnout has been one of my biggest challenges, particularly managing the balance between being an athletic trainer and being a person. I’m still figuring it out, but surrounding yourself with supportive people is always a good start.
Can you share some key milestones or achievements in your professional journey?
Nicole: Some key milestones include working at prestigious universities like Syracuse, Notre Dame, and UNC, serving as a head ATC in the WNBA, working with USAB at all levels, and, of course, winning an Olympic Gold medal.
Why did you decide to partner with WaveOn Health and become an Agent? How will it further your career as an AT?
Nicole: I partnered with WaveOn Health because there’s a growing need for virtual athletic trainers. Many athletes, particularly those who have graduated from college, no longer have access to an ATC, while youth athletes often don’t understand how to take care of their bodies. I believe all athletes should have equal access to athletic trainers, and this partnership helps achieve that.
WaveOn Health is excited to have Nicole as a part of the team with her background of high-level athlete care, an asset to other Agents and athletes, and to assist her in continuing her athletic training career.
Get started working with Nicole or other Agents by clicking here.
You can learn more about what WaveOn can do for you here.
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