In 2007, Professor Bates came to Heidelberg after teaching and working clinically and academically at his alma mater, Millikin University. Mr. Bates brings a passionate and progressive approach to the development of the Athletic Training Department faculty and students, both academically and clinically. As a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), he has provided athletic training education and services to athletes at high school, NJCAA, NCCAA, NCAA Division I & III athletic levels.
His clinical work experience also includes patient care in orthopedic and sports medicine physician offices (as a physician extender) and outpatient orthopedic rehabilitation and sports enhancement settings. He has more than 10 years of teaching experience in Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education accredited programs. Professor Bates has taught most major coursework within athletic training as well as coursework within disciplines of health sciences, physical education, kinesiology and exercise science. He is a versatile educator who addresses students' learning styles and works to prepare them to become competent and functional professionals.
Professor Bates does not have direct clinical responsibilities but you couldn't tell from his regular presence in the athletic training room! Since coming to Heidelberg, Professor Bates has given professional presentations at both GLATA and OATA conferences, served as sub-chair of the OATA Student Committee, vice president of Association Affairs of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association, member of the Student Research Conference Committee, member of the Wellness Committee, chair of the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee, directed student research projects and served as a professional medical volunteer for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.