Wearable technology is advancing at an astounding rate. From measuring performance metrics such as distance, accelerations, decelerations, velocity, to physiological data such as heart rate, respiratory rate, blood sugar level, health and performance professionals are leveraging data to make better informed clinical decisions. For years, this technology has only been reserved for elite athletes and professional teams due to a high price tag. This is no longer the case as most smart phones and smart watches can measure the same data as expensive technology. Therefore, the purpose of this presentation is to educate the foundational concepts of wearable technology to the AT so they can begin to implement into their practice.

There has been a shift in organizational models which impact ATs over the past several years. From the introduction of the Medical Model to the High Performance Model initiated in the English Premiere League, organizations have expanded staff sizes and repositioned responsibilities. In professional sports, the adoption of the High Performance Model has increased, resulting in the utilization of Sports Science and Sports Scientist in hopes of leveraging performance data and physical measurables to help guide decision-making relating to the training and prevention of injuries in elite athletes. To date, no quantifiable data exists, but informal conversations and discussions with ATs who have direct knowledge, have identified scenarios in which ATs have been bypassed as organizational leaders. This was in part due to either ATs were not familiar with the High Performance Model or because the decision was made to replicate the model exactly as it is utilized in Europe. Due to this shift, the AT role has often been relegated to simply injury management. Return to play decisions and other medical decisions are now being made by the Vice President of High Performance or equivalent positions, held by non-medical personnel. These titles have grown exponentially and the only logical conclusion is all major professional teams and collegiate athletic departments will have these roles among their management structures in the near future. How might this impact amateur sports? How might this impact ATs at all levels? Therefore, the purpose of this presentation is to help fill the knowledge gap regarding different practice models in professional sports and provide recommendations on how ATs can lead successful organizational change.