What was the primary purpose of the NATA when it was formed?

The primary purpose of the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) when it was formed was to establish professional standards for athletic trainers. This foundation aimed to create a framework that would ensure the safety and well-being of athletes during training and competition. By setting professional standards, NATA sought to enhance the quality of care provided by athletic trainers, thereby elevating the profession as a whole.

The establishment of these standards included defining the roles and responsibilities of athletic trainers, promoting best practices in injury prevention, and advocating for the profession in various athletic and healthcare settings. This emphasis on professionalism has been crucial in professionalizing the field, leading to credentialing and certification processes that ensure athletic trainers are qualified and knowledgeable in their practices.

While promoting athletic competitions, conducting sports science research, and improving athlete performance can be important aspects of sports administration and training, they do not represent the core mission that NATA was founded on. The focus has always been on creating a structured, professional environment for athletic trainers to support athletes effectively.