In recognition of National Athletic Training Month, UIS Athletics is proud to spotlight Athletic Trainer Ryan Margold and his contributions to Prairie Star student-athletes.
Margold has built a career at the intersection of athletics and healthcare. As an Athletic Trainer at UIS, he works daily between the training room and competition venues, combining his passion for sports with a commitment to student-athlete well-being.
"I played a lot of sports growing up and have always been a big sports fan," he said. "I also always wanted to work in healthcare, so I felt that being an athletic trainer was a good marriage of the two and is the perfect role for me."
Now in his fourth year at UIS, Margold provides sports medicine services for women's soccer and baseball. Whether evaluating injuries, guiding rehabilitation plans, or preparing athletes for practice, his focus remains consistent: keeping student-athletes healthy and ready to compete.
A Day in the Life
Margold typically arrives on campus mid-morning and begins meeting with student-athletes for injury evaluations, treatment, and recovery sessions. He also connects regularly with coaches and Sports Performance staff to review injury updates and align on care plans.
With most practices scheduled in the afternoon, Margold prepares his equipment before heading to the field. "Usually practice for both of my teams is in the afternoon, so I will pack up my kit, an AED, emergency equipment, and drive the cart out to the soccer or baseball field," he said.
Following practice, he returns to the training room, where student-athletes continue recovery work or check in on their progress. While weekdays often conclude in the early evening, game days and travel require extended hours, with Margold providing consistent care at both home and away contests.
Homegrown and Home Again
For Margold, UIS represents more than a workplace. A Springfield native, he earned his Master of Athletic Training degree from UIS after completing his undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. His familiarity with the program and staff made the transition into a full-time role a natural one.
"I grew up in Springfield and graduated from the Master of Athletic Training program here at UIS," Margold said. "I had done a clinical rotation with my current boss, Chris Camburn, so I had a rapport and comfortability with him and the Sports Medicine department here. It was a seamless transition."
That continuity has allowed him to build strong relationships within the department and across the teams he serves.
Memorable Moments and Everyday Impact
One of Margold's favorite memories came in 2023, when UIS hosted the NCAA Regional for baseball. Supporting the team during postseason play was a defining experience and a reflection of the work that happens behind the scenes throughout the season.
Moments like that reinforce the importance of preparation and care in helping student-athletes perform at their best.
Outside of work, Margold remains connected to the sports he has long enjoyed. A former baseball and basketball player, he now spends time on the golf course and enjoys trivia, showcasing a competitive spirit and attention to detail that carry into his professional role.
If given the opportunity to meet any athlete, his choice is Albert Pujols—a reflection of his appreciation for baseball and its impact on his life.
Balancing Passion and Purpose
Margold's career reflects a clear alignment between his interests and his profession. Each day, he contributes to the success of UIS Athletics by supporting student-athletes through injury prevention, treatment, and recovery.
For Margold, the work is also personal. It is an opportunity to give back to the community and institution that helped shape his path, while continuing to do what he has always loved—being part of sports. At UIS, that balance continues to define his impact, as he plays a key role in keeping Prairie Stars healthy, prepared, and ready to compete.
