Campus News

Laverman Continues in Athletic Training

3/15/13
Worthington Campus

Jacob Laverman, of Ocheyedan, IA, a 2012 Minnesota West graduate is continuing his successful educational career at Iowa State in the Athletic Training program.

Laverman started his education close to home at Minnesota West after encouragement from his older sister who attended the college before him. While attending Minnesota West Laverman also was a Presidential Scholarship recipient, participated in intercollegiate golf, and was a member of the Bluejay Baseball team. Laverman is currently a student in the Athletic Training program at Iowa State University, Ames, IA.   

While Laverman had an interest in Athletic Training in High School he did not decide to pursue it as a career until he took Prevention & Care of Athletic Injuries from Joel Krekelberg while completing his A.A. degree at Minnesota West. Laverman said, “That class, and observing Krek during games he worked at as an athletic trainer really had a big influence on my decision. I'm so thankful for everyone at Minnesota West and all the help and support they've shown me in helping me get to where I am.”

“He was not only a great student athlete but he also has extremely high character and this was shown by him taking time to show up for my mother’s funeral visitation. One of his greatest attributes is his empathy for his fellow man and that will go a long ways in his pursuit of Athletic Training. One of the most important things in Athletic Training is to let your athletes know you care for them and Jacob shows this well,” said Joel Krekelberg, Minnesota West Instructor and Sandford Athletic Trainer.

From Minnesota West Laverman decided to attend Iowa State University in pursuit of his Athletic Training career. While he looked at a few different places but ultimately decided that Iowa State was the right fit for him. “The Iowa State name carries a lot of weight in the Athletic Training world. I felt very comfortable and felt like they wanted me and would help me to succeed.” Said Laverman when asked about what helped make his decision. After making his decision Laverman completed a lengthy and competitive application process which included numerous interviews, letters of recommendation, observation hours, knowledge and successful completion of specified taping techniques, along with other requirements and was accepted into the Athletic Training program along with 21 other students.

During his first year in the Athletic Training program Laverman has had numerous successful and exciting accomplishments. Laverman was selected as 1 of 12 student trainers who would attend the AutoZone Liberty Bowl with the Iowa State Cyclone football team on December 31, 2012 in Memphis, TN. Laverman said, “Being a part of the bowl game is something I will never forget. It was such an amazing experience that I can hardly put into words how much I enjoyed the entire trip.”

In addition to his classroom success Laverman has also been offered and accepted a summer Athletic Training internship with the Indianapolis Colts for this upcoming summer. “I am incredibly excited and so lucky to get an opportunity like this. It will be a great opportunity for me to further work on my skills and learn and experience even more,” said Laverman.