Current Workplace:

Sharyland High School

How long have you been in the field, and where did you complete your education?

I have been in the field for total of two years. Working on completing third year this school year at Sharyland High School. The two years were in Port Isabel High School. I graduated from PSJA Memorial High School, and I completed my education at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley UTRGV.

Why did you choose this profession?

I chose athletic training because sports shaped my life growing up. After experiencing injuries myself and working closely with athletic trainers, I saw firsthand how impactful the profession is. That is when I knew I wanted to help athletes recover, perform, and stay healthy. 

What skills do you think are most important for an AT to develop?

I believe the most important skills for an athletic trainer are strong clinical assessment, communication, and relationship-building. We have to make quick, accurate decisions regarding injuries, communicate clearly with athletes and coaches, and build trust so athletes feel supported. In a school setting especially, adaptability and emotional intelligence are also key because we are not just treating injuries we are mentoring young athletes through challenges.

What is your favorite part of the job?

My favorite part is building trust with the athletes and helping them safely return to play. Theres nothing better than seeing their hard work pay off. Wins are great but watching an athlete overcome an injury and regain confidence. That's the real win for me.

What’s your mantra or favorite quote?

My mantra is "Be calm in the chaos" Friday nights can be chaotic. Injuries can be emotional. I believe my role is to be calm in the chaos. Steady, confident, and composed. Athletes feed off that energy.

Who are some of your biggest influencers both personally and professionally?

Professionally: My two high school athletic trainers Jason Chad Hilburn, and Joanna "JoJo" Ruiz.

UTRGV AT: HALL OF FAMER & former UTPA/UTRGV Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine Jim Lancaster, Steven Kraus UTRGV Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine , Tom Mendez University of Texas Baseball athletic trainer, and Sharyland co-workers Rob Montoya, and Alyssa Garza. Personally, my Dad Isidoro Galindo , Mom Yvette Galindo , Sister Rachelle Gonzalez, and my fiancée Iris Maldonado. Each and one of them has made an impact in who I am as an athletic trainer and who I am as a person.

Do you have any advice for other ATs or students contemplating a career in Athletic Training?

For student ATs: Be ready to outwork everyone in the room, keep learning even when you think you know enough, and stay humble. Your knowledge matters, but your presence matters just as much. If you care deeply about helping others, return to what they love, and you're willing to sacrifice time and comfort to do it. Then athletic training is one of the most rewarding careers you'll ever choose. For athletic trainers that are already in the profession. Don't lose the reason you started. The long hours and the paperwork, ...they can wear you down but the impact you make every single day is bigger than you think. Protect your boundaries and set the tone for your athletes. If you lead with calm, confidence, and compassion, they'll follow.

Proud to be an athletic trainer serving in the Rio Grande Valley

Thank you, Valley Athletic Training Association, for this recognition it is an honor.