March is National Athletic Training Month, a time to recognize the dedication and impact of athletic trainers across the country. At Bryn Mawr College, Allison Hudak plays a vital dual role as both an athletic trainer and strength & conditioning coach, working to bridge the gap between injury prevention, rehabilitation, and athletic performance.

With nearly 18 years of experience as an athletic trainer and 16 months at Bryn Mawr, Hudak brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the Owls' athletic community. Her background as a multi-sport athlete—competing in basketball, softball, and even bowling—has given her a deep appreciation for the demands of training and competition.

A Holistic Approach to Athlete Care

In her unique role, Hudak works closely with both the sports medicine and strength & conditioning staffs to ensure scholar-athletes receive comprehensive care and training adjustments tailored to their needs. She emphasizes safe, active recovery and maintains continuity between rehabilitation and team training, allowing athletes to return to play efficiently while minimizing the risk of re-injury.

"I love being able to empower our scholar-athletes through positive habit development and strength as a skill set," Hudak shared. "I embrace the opportunity to support and impact this community in a fresh, new way."

For Hudak, athletic training goes beyond just physical recovery—it's about seeing and supporting the whole person.

"I have been very privileged in my career to have been a part of many memorable successes," she said. "With my holistic approach, I aim to hear and see people as their whole selves. And when we meet each other where we are, we are able to connect in a way that inevitably facilitates mutual successes (big and small) and furthers us on our path to the best versions of ourselves."

Balancing Injury Prevention and Performance

Hudak's training philosophy is rooted in building strong movement patterns from the ground up. She and her colleagues analyze injury statistics and trends to proactively adjust training programs, addressing the root causes of potential injuries rather than simply focusing on strength gains.

"We direct very early focus on the fundamentals of movement patterns and then build on those foundations," she explained. "By combining injury statistics and trends with anticipations, we make an effort to address the source of the problem as opposed to simply 'getting them stronger.'"

A Lasting Impact on Bryn Mawr Athletics

Hudak's work goes beyond physical training; she fosters a culture of education, resilience, and long-term athletic development. By integrating injury prevention with performance enhancement, she helps Bryn Mawr's scholar-athletes reach their full potential—both on and off the field.

This National Athletic Training Month, Bryn Mawr Athletics proudly recognizes Allison Hudak for her commitment, expertise, and unwavering dedication to the health and success of its scholar-athletes.