Episode 9: Beyond the Game: Inside the World of Sports Medicine with Colin Markgraf

Sports medicine is about a whole lot more than what happens after an athlete gets hurt.In Episode 9 of the REI Sports Network, Colin Markgraf joins us for a look inside the world of sports medicine and athletic training—from injury prevention and recovery to communication, trust, education, and the career opportunities available to students interested in this growing field.Colin shares the personal experiences that led him into sports medicine and breaks down what the profession actually looks like beyond the sidelines. We talk about recovery and nutrition, advancements in sports medicine, working with athletes and families, and why knowing basic skills like CPR and first aid can literally save a life.For students considering sports medicine as a career, Colin also shares practical ways to start exploring the industry now, including certifications, shadowing, internships, hands-on experience, and the skills that make a great athletic trainer.We also get into something every athlete needs to hear: sometimes getting back in the game isn't the most important thing. Knowing when to stop, recover, get treatment, and protect your long-term health matters too.In this episode:What sports medicine really encompassesInjury prevention, recovery and nutritionAthletic training beyond game dayCPR, first aid and hands-on skills students can learn nowSports psychology and understanding the athleteBuilding trust with athletes and parentsShadowing, internships and career pathwaysThe importance of humility and continuous learningHelping athletes safely return to the sport they loveWhether you're a student-athlete, parent, coach, or young person wondering if there's a future for you in sports beyond playing, this conversation introduces another side of the sports industry worth exploring.REI Sports NetworkWhere Sports, Education & Opportunity Meet.