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Abstract Athletic trainers (ATs) are healthcare providers who work in collaboration with physicians, nurses, physical therapists and others to provide care to physically active individuals. Founded in 1950, the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) represents certified ATs and other individuals who support the athletic training profession. The Board of Certification (BOC) has the only accredited certification program for ATs in USA. It establishes and regularly reviews both the standards for the practice of athletic training and the continuing education requirements for certified ATs. In order to attain certification, candidates must demonstrate successful completion of either a bachelor's degree or master's degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and pass the BOC certification exam. Currently, there are ∼42 000 ATs practicing in USA, with 48 states who regulate their practice. The purpose of this article is to provide a background for the profession of athletic training as well as describe and discuss the importance of including ATs in interprofessional education and practice initiatives.