The Utah Blaze in action aganist the Cleveland Gladiators.
Being an arena league football player may not be as glamorous as a NFL star, but that doesn’t mean the abuse they put on their body is any less. Through the 5 month season, players from the Utah Blaze jam, strain, wrench and stress all parts of their body.
Luckily, students from Broadview’s Massage Therapy program have been able to apply their coursework to help the Blaze recover and prepare for games this season. The partnership brings massage students to Energy Solutions Arena for each home game, where the students work on players before they hit the field.
While the Blaze have been able to rest and relax, Broadview’s students are gaining valuable experience at the same time.
“I never did sports massages so I was kind of blindsided at first, but as things have progressed and I’ve been taking classes, it has improved how I work here, “ said massage student Melisa Lovato. “It reaffirms what I’m doing.”
Massage student Melisa Lovato stretches Blaze Offensive Lineman Lauvale Sape before the game.
The student’s practical application goes outside of the classroom as well. “It’s important to come into the community and network, and get a feel for different bodies and personalities,” remarked massage instructor Whitny Scheifl. “They (students) get a feel for the type of area they want to work with and get to explore different career settings.”
“When I feel myself pouring bullets, I’m doing just as much good for me as I am for the players,” added Lovato. “I’m just grateful for the opportunity.”
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