Fred Bowen's "The Score" column,
May 9, 2003, Washington Post

Thought of Training?

Every pro or big-time college sports team has a trainer. That's the person who helps the athletes get in top shape and gets them back into action after an injury.

Being a trainer is a cool job for someone who likes sports. To find out more about being a trainer, I spoke with Randy Rocha, the director of sports medicine at Metro Orthopedics & Sports Therapy in Silver Spring. He's also the trainer and the strength-and-conditioning coach for the Washington Freedom professional women's soccer team.

What do you do for the Freedom?

As the strength-and-conditioning coach, I develop the exercise and weight-training programs that help the athletes play better and avoid injuries. As the trainer, I make sure that the players have stretched properly before they play and are treated for any injuries.

Did you play sports as a kid?

Sure. I played baseball, soccer and football growing up. I was on the football and wrestling teams at Bowie High School in Maryland.

When did you become interested in becoming a trainer?

I didn't play on a team in college -- at the University of Maryland -- but when I was a junior there, I injured my wrist lifting weights. The doctor sent me for treatment and I saw the trainer working with the athletes. I thought it looked like fun, especially because I missed being around sports and teams. So I switched my major to the sports medicine program.

What did you do in the sports medicine program?

I studied subjects like anatomy [the human body and how it works]. But I also spent more than 1,500 hours working with the athletes on the Maryland football team, and the wrestling and basketball teams. That was great because I have followed University of Maryland sports my whole life.

What is the hardest part of your job with the Freedom?

It is definitely when a player is not able to play in a game. I know injuries happen, but I always feel bad when a player has to sit out.

What is the best part?

When an athlete you have helped with an injury is able to play and contribute to a victory. That's a great feeling. I also enjoy being around the players on the Freedom. They are a smart, fun group.

What can kids do now that will help them become trainers later?

Playing a lot of sports gives you a knowledge of what it takes to be an athlete. These days, there are internships that high school kids can do for community service. High school kids can also work at sports therapy places and get a feel for the job.

The most important thing is to find something you really like and are good at and just do it.