VTSU Master of Athletic Training Students Excel at Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association Convention

January 20, 2026

A large group of Master of Athletic Training students and faculty pose together in a conference room for a group photo.

During January break, students and faculty from Vermont State University’s Master of Athletic Training program traveled to Boston, Massachusetts, to attend the annual Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association (EATA) Convention. The weekend offered students a valuable mix of learning, professional networking, and hands‑on engagement with leaders in the field of athletic training.

A student stands in front of an Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association step‑and‑repeat banner holding a plaque award and wearing conference credentials.
Two students stand together in front of an Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association backdrop, with one wearing a gold medal on a ribbon.
A student stands indoors holding up a gold medal on a ribbon, with a conference table and materials visible behind them.
A group of five students and faculty members stand together inside a conference room, with one student wearing a gold medal.
Students participate in a hands‑on workshop, practicing a scenario by lifting a peer in a soft stretcher during a training exercise.
A group of students practice a medical skills activity, using a manikin head on a table to simulate airway management while others watch.
A group of students kneel on the floor practicing an emergency care scenario, working together to stabilize a peer lying on the ground during a workshop.
Students gather around a table during a medical workshop, wearing gloves and handling training materials on a protective pad.
A large group of Master of Athletic Training students and faculty pose together in a conference room for a group photo.

The trip featured several standout moments for VTSU students:

  • Becca Roy was honored as a District One EATA scholarship recipient. In addition to receiving this distinction, she served as Acting President of the EATA Student Delegation, where she played a key leadership role in developing and overseeing student programming for the conference.
  • Dylan Hedler represented VTSU in the District One Quiz Bowl competition. His strong fourth-place finish earned him a spot as an alternate for the National Quiz Bowl at the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Convention this June in Philadelphia.
  • Adding a fun twist to the weekend, the NATA Research & Education Foundation hosted a special audience-participation Quiz Bowl round. DJ Scott‑Smith took first place in the competition, bringing home an unexpected win for the VTSU group.

The EATA Convention continues to offer VTSU students meaningful opportunities to build professional connections, deepen clinical knowledge, and celebrate the accomplishments of emerging leaders in athletic training.

Learn more about VTSU’s Master of Athletic Training Program!