Brett Chaisson (right) will take part in an internship with the New Orleans Saints starting on July 24 with training camp

July 18, 2008

THIBODAUX, La. - When NFL training camps begin in late July, four different franchises will be accompanied by a Nicholls Athletic Training student as a part of the NFL's internship program.

The New Orleans Saints will welcome Brett Chaisson, a senior from Thibodaux, La., while fellow NFC South member the Atlanta Falcons will have Scott Hebert, a senior from Galliano, La., to assist with their camp.

Traveling far away from the friendly confines of Thibodaux will be Nathan Quebedeaux, a senior from Hammond, La., and Dexter Charles, a senior from Thibodaux, La. Quebedeaux accepted an internship with the Detroit Lions, while Charles will assume the same role with the Arizona Cardinals.

"Over the past five years, we have had 10 athletic training students participate in NFL internships. It is a very rewarding experience that allows our students to see and participate in a NFL environment," said Assistant A.D./Head Athletic Trainer Jeff Smith, who participated in two NFL internships with the Kansas City Chiefs while working towards his undergraduate degree.

"My experience with the Chiefs was a great one and one that I look back quite fondly on. That is why I push for students to get involved and get an internship with a NFL team because you never know what doors it could open up for you in the future."

The internship experience is not just a one sided love affair for the intern. In fact, the NFL teams that have taken on Nicholls Athletic Training students for internships have been quite impressed with the product that Nicholls is graduating.

"I have had the opportunity to work with a Nicholls intern each of the last four years, and they work hard and get it. You never have to look over there shoulders or go behind and check their work. We appreciate everything Nicholls has done for us," said Freddie Carabajal, Assistant Athletic Trainer for the Arizona Cardinals.

"It is an exciting experience and a great opportunity for a student to have an internship in the NFL. It allows them to network with others and gain valuable connections for the future."

All of the Athletic Training Interns will work side-by-side with the athletic trainers of the franchises that have chosen them. Some of their duties will include attending all practices, taping, applying first aid, and giving treatments. All of the interns will be subject to attend all home preseason games, while most teams rotate at least three interns to travel for away games.

Most NFL Athletic Training Departments carry four full-time staff members, while a NFL team can carry as many as 80 players at the start of camp. That is why the four-to-six interns that each team usually carries comes in handy during training camp.

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