Observation: A candidate must be able to observe demonstrations in the classroom and clinical setting, and be able to effectively gather and assimilate information from them. A candidate must have sufficient visual and other sensory modalities to accurately observe an athlete at a distance and at close range, in order to gather necessary data about the athlete, such as that needed to describe posture, habitus, mood, activity and non-verbal communications.

Communication: A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with athletes from different social and cultural backgrounds, and to develop effective professional rapport with other members of the health care team. Communication includes not only speech and nonverbal communications, but also reading and writing. It includes the ability to record assessment results and follow-up notes clearly, accurately and efficiently, as well.

Motor: Candidates must possess sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, and eye-to -hand coordination in order to utilize the standard instruments used in the Athletic Training profession. They must possess sufficient control of the upper and lower extremities to meet the physical requirements for athletic training (Ex: standing in the Athletic Training Room or at playing venues for long periods of time) and performing a safe injury assessment. They must have adequate sensory function to fulfill minimum competency objectives in order to be able to elicit information from athletes through palpation, auscultation, percussion and other assessment maneuvers. Additionally, candidates must be able to learn and perform the fundamental skills associated with injury assessment, management, and therapeutic rehabilitation, and be able to quickly and appropriately provide general and emergency care to athletes.

Intellectual: Candidates must have the mental capacity to learn and assimilate a large amount of complex, technical and detailed information, solve clinical problems through critical analysis, perform measurements, and synthesize and apply concepts and information from various disciplines in order to formulate therapeutic plans.

Behavioral and Social Attributes: A candidate must possess the emotional and mental health required for full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the care and management of injuries to athletes, and the development of mature, sensitive and effective relationships with athletes. Candidates must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and have the ability to maintain composure and emotional stability during periods of high stress. They must be able to adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many athletes. Compassion, integrity, interpersonal skills, interest, and motivation are all personal qualities that are essential to the role.