Amanda Rodrigues was born and raised in Rhode Island, where her family still resides. She stayed on the east coast to attend Springfield College, graduating in 2016. On top of tackling two majors, Athletic Training and Physical Education, Amanda served on the Eastern Athletic Trainer’s Association (EATA) District 1 Student Delegation Committee. In her third year on the committee, she accepted the Student Program Chair position and assisted in designing the student program for 2015. In addition to her academic and committee work, Amanda enjoyed her experiences helping a wide variety of athletes at the college as part of her athletic training curriculum.
After graduation, Amanda took a temporary position with a physical therapy office. Her duties included running preventative training programs for youth and assisting with sports return-to-play rehab. Amanda officially started her career as an athletic trainer when she joined a small boarding school outside of Boston, Massachusetts. The position made use of both of her dual degrees to help young athletes at the school. During the same period, Amanda served as a preceptor for the Lasell College Athletic Training Program.
Through these early professional experiences, Amanda realized her passion for helping young athletes. Her favorite part of each day is talking with her athletes and educating them in a non-traditional setting – the athletic training room.
Following her desire for outdoor adventure, Amanda stumbled on Bend, Oregon and immediately fell in love. She is excited to join The Center Foundation Sports Medicine Program as the athletic trainer for La Pine High School. She is also thoroughly looking forward to her new life on the west coast. In her free time, Amanda enjoys anything she can do outside. Her favorite activities include both playing and watching sports, yoga, photography, travel, reading, and spending time with her pup, Milo.
First job?
Worked at my hometown’s nonprofit summer camp as a counselor for five years, then as program director for five years. It still holds a very special place in my heart!
Favorite food?
Picking an absolute favorite is too hard – I have too many favorites! But, since I’m 100% Portuguese my favorite Portuguese dish is Shrimp Mozambique from my favorite restaurant in Rhode Island.
Something quirky or interesting about you?
I can draw cartoons freehand.
What is one thing you would like people to know about athletic trainers?
We are the first very specialized, and personalized, line of care for young athletes, and we often have a special daily connection with the kids. Athletic trainers offer an array of knowledge to give kids the proper care for injuries in a supportive and approachable manor. I feel ALL athletes should have access to athletic trainers!
Amanda Rodrigues, ATC is an athletic trainer with The Center Foundation and serves La Pine High School. Find out more about Amanda and our entire athletic training team here.