NW Valley Times

Grand Canyon University senior Braeden Rideoutt, an athletic training major, completed a prestigious internship with the Arizona Cardinals over the summer. The opportunity allowed him to engage deeply with professional athletes, extending his support beyond physical care to address their personal and mental needs.

Rideoutt's journey into athletic training began after a knee injury in high school ended his aspirations of playing college football. With guidance from a counselor, he shifted focus to athletic training and is now part of GCU's last cohort to receive a bachelor's degree in the field before it transitions to a master's program.

During his eight-week stint with the Cardinals, Rideoutt undertook various responsibilities such as managing hydration and taping ankles. He also gained significant insights into serving athletes comprehensively. “You’re not just working for yourself. You’re there to serve others,” he remarked.

Cardinals athletic trainer Dano Norceide Jr. praised Rideoutt for his cultural competence and ability to connect with team members: “One of the biggest things that Braeden had was cultural competence...the guys gravitated towards him."

Michael McKenney, GCU associate professor in athletic training education, emphasized the importance of clinical experience in shaping students' skills: “They all contribute to our GCU students' development in preparation to go and impact the world.”

Rideoutt credits his success partly to his preceptors at GCU’s Lopes Orthopedic Clinic who provided strong recommendations due to his work ethic and commitment. His internship application process was highly competitive, involving 3,000 applicants vying for 25 spots.

Reflecting on the demanding nature of the internship, which involved long hours from early morning until late at night, Rideoutt said: “It was like drinking out of a firehose.” Despite challenges, he found satisfaction in quick decision-making and collaboration under pressure.

The Cardinals have invited Rideoutt back to support their trainers during games while he completes his studies. This opportunity aligns with his aspiration of becoming an NFL head athletic trainer after graduating in spring 2025.

Rideoutt's experience reinforced the value of relationships and holistic athlete care: “We are more than people who tape ankles; we are a great resource who support athletes.”