OHL Behind the Scenes: Firebirds’ Da’Shawn Tolbert
Throughout the 2022-23 off-season, the Ontario Hockey League will be spotlighting a member from each team’s front office staff as we look to highlight those working “Behind the Scenes” of the day-to-day operations.
Helping the players on and off the ice, Da’Shawn Tolbert speaks on the importance of preparation and responsibility as the Flint Firebirds Head Athletic Therapist.
DT: My name is Da’Shawn Tolbert, Head Athletic Trainer for the Flint Firebirds. I have been the Head Athletic Trainer since 2021, and I’m now heading into my third season with the team. I am a licensed, and certified Athletic Trainer and Nutritionist. I am hard working, dedicated, dependable and I am always open to further expanding my career and learning new things.
What are your responsibilities as the Flint Firebirds’ Head Athletic Trainer?
DT: My responsibilities are to provide treatment, rehabilitation, emergency medical care, clinical evaluation and diagnosis, injury and illness prevention, wellness protection, and organization and administration for our players.
How does the job differ from practice compared to game day?
DT: The difference between practice and game day is preparation and having an increased level of concentration and focus on the task at hand. Game days are the longest days of the week. There is a lot of preparation that goes into the day so that when the players arrive, all their needs can be met.
What led you to your current role with the Firebirds?
DT: I was referred for the position by the former Flint Firebirds President of Hockey Operations, Costa Papista. I had previously worked for him as the Head Athletic Trainer for a soccer team. He called me with the potential job opening and encouraged me to go in for an interview. I interviewed for the job and a couple days later I signed with the team as their Head Athletic Trainer.
What has been the most fulfilling part about working with the Firebirds?
DT: The most fulfilling part of the job is knowing I am having a positive impact on the players on and off the ice. The players are all going through different obstacles and challenges in their life whether it be hockey related or personal matters. Being someone that they trust and believe in is a great feeling. Every player knows I have their best interest at heart, and I am happy to be a part of their journey.
As an athletic trainer, do you have any tips that you regularly stress towards the players?
DT: The biggest thing I stress to the players is to be the best person they can be. Come in everyday with a positive attitude, even during the hard times and put your best foot forward. I always tell the players to be proactive, not inactive. Never be too high or too low, and expect the unexpected. Fall in love with the process and of course, have fun doing it.
