In recognition of National Athletic Training Month, UIS Athletics is proud to spotlight Athletic Trainer Samantha Fuentes and the role she plays in supporting Prairie Star student-athletes.
On any given day at UIS, Fuentes balances tape, treatments, and the steady rhythm of practice. Her mornings begin with injury evaluations and rehabilitation plans, while her afternoons focus on pre
In recognition of National Athletic Training Month, UIS Athletics is proud to spotlight Athletic Trainer Samantha Fuentes and the role she plays in supporting Prairie Star student-athletes.
On any given day at the University of Illinois Springfield, Fuentes balances tape, treatments, and the steady rhythm of practice. Her mornings begin with injury evaluations and rehabilitation plans, while her afternoons focus on preparing student-athletes for training and competition.
"Practice is the best part of my day as I get to watch the athletes do what they do best, and that's perform and train," Fuentes said. The energy of scrimmages and team competition provides a front-row view to the moments that define a season.
From Fan to Athletic Trainer
Fuentes' path into athletics began early. "What got me into athletics was growing up watching sports 24/7 with my dad and brothers, as well as being an athlete once upon a time," she said.
Sports were a constant in her life, shaping both her interests and career goals. She attended Sonoma State University for her undergraduate studies before completing graduate school at Colorado State University Pueblo.
Now in her first year working in collegiate athletics, Fuentes brings a fresh perspective and energy to the training room and sidelines.
Choosing UIS was a natural fit. "The history of the city and the amazing staff" drew her to Springfield, where she works with men's soccer and men's basketball. Her days often conclude with post-practice recovery, including E-stim, ice baths, and ensuring the training facility remains organized and ready for the next day.
Moments That Matter
Among the many contests she has been part of, one stands out.
"When the men's soccer team won their last game against Upper Iowa," Fuentes said. "One of our seniors made the first goal in the first five minutes of the game, so it felt extra special since it was his last game and his final goal of his college career."
Moments like that reinforce her purpose in the profession. Whether assisting with injury recovery or witnessing key performances, Fuentes values the daily impact she can make on student-athletes.
Beyond the Training Room
Outside of athletics, Fuentes enjoys spending time in the kitchen. "I love to bake, and my dream is to open my own bakery shop one day," she said. Her specialty is macarons—an attention-to-detail craft that mirrors her approach to athletic training.
If given the opportunity to meet any sports figure, her choice is clear: Michael Jordan, a reflection of her lifelong connection to sports and competitive mindset.
Fuentes' own athletic background includes dance team, wrestling, and water polo in high school, experiences that continue to influence her work today.
Rooted in Passion and Purpose
For Fuentes, athletic training provides a meaningful way to remain connected to the sports environment she has always loved. Each day, she plays a role in helping student-athletes prepare, recover, and perform at their best.
Whether in the training room or pursuing her passion for baking, Fuentes approaches her work with care, consistency, and attention to detail. At UIS, she is building a career centered on service, growth, and the success of Prairie Star student-athletes.
paring student-athletes for training and competition.
"Practice is the best part of my day as I get to watch the athletes do what they do best, and that's perform and train," Fuentes said.
From Fan to Athletic Trainer
Fuentes' path into athletics began early. "What got me into athletics was growing up watching sports 24/7 with my dad and brothers, as well as being an athlete once upon a time," she said.
Sports are a constant in her life, shaping both her interests and career goals. She attended Sonoma State University for her undergraduate studies before completing graduate school at Colorado State University Pueblo.
Now in her first year working in collegiate athletics, Fuentes brings a fresh perspective and energy to the training room and sidelines.
Choosing UIS was a natural fit. "The history of the city and the amazing staff" drew her to Springfield, where she works with men's soccer and men's basketball. Her days often conclude with post-practice recovery, including E-stim, ice baths, and ensuring the training facility remains organized and ready for the next day.
Moments That Matter
Among the many contests she has been part of, one stands out.
"When the men's soccer team won their last game against Upper Iowa," Fuentes said. "One of our seniors made the first goal in the first five minutes of the game, so it felt extra special since it was his last game and his final goal of his college career."
Moments like that reinforce her purpose in the profession. Whether assisting with injury recovery or witnessing key performances, Fuentes values the daily impact she can make on student-athletes.
Beyond the Training Room
Outside of athletics, Fuentes enjoys spending time in the kitchen. "I love to bake, and my dream is to open my own bakery one day," she said. Her specialty is macarons—an attention-to-detail craft that mirrors her approach to athletic training.
If given the opportunity to meet any sports figure, her choice is clear: Michael Jordan, a reflection of her lifelong connection to sports and competitive mindset.
Fuentes' own athletic background includes dance team, wrestling, and water polo in high school.
Rooted in Passion and Purpose
For Fuentes, athletic training provides a meaningful way to remain connected to the sports environment she has always loved. Each day, she plays a role in helping student-athletes prepare, recover, and perform at their best.
Whether in the training room or pursuing her passion for baking, Fuentes approaches her work with care, consistency, and attention to detail. At UIS, she is building a career centered on service, growth, and the success of Prairie Star student-athletes.
