The NATA Foundation is at the forefront of advancing athletic training through research and education.
During the 76th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo, we invite you to experience firsthand the transformative work we’re doing for the profession. From engaging presentations that showcase cutting edge research to unforgettable fundraising events, there’s no better place to connect with and support the future of athletic training.
When you participate in NATA Foundation events, you’re not just having fun—you’re making a difference. Every donation, ticket purchase, and engagement helps us support athletic trainers, fund innovative research, and provide scholarships to the next generation of athletic trainers. Together, we’re shaping a stronger, healthier future for our profession.
Make memories, grow your network, and take pride in knowing you’re making a meaningful difference. Let’s build the future of athletic training together!
Special Foundation Events
The Free Communications Program is a platform where athletic trainers have the opportunity to present their research and clinical case studies for the first time during the NATA Convention. With over 9,000 oral and poster presentations to date, this program showcases the latest research in athletic training. Abstracts selected by the Free Communications Committee are published in the supplement to the Journal of Athletic Training and are featured at the NATA Convention through engaging rapid fire or poster presentations. Be sure to check out the session schedule in the app for these exciting presentations!
7:30–10:30 p.m. EST | Monday, June 29 | Philadelphia, PA
Get ready to roll, rock, and relive the 90’s!
Join the NATA Research & Education Foundation for an unforgettable night of bowling, live music, great food, and fundraising as we celebrate 35 years of advancing the athletic training profession.
Rock & Bowl at Lucky Strike Philadelphia brings together unlimited bowling, interactive games, and high-energy live entertainment from The Flying Ivories, a dueling piano act playing your favorite 90’s hits. Whether you’re hitting the lanes, singing along in the lounge, or catching up with colleagues, there’s something for everyone.
Break out your best 90’s outfit or band T-shirt and help us celebrate this milestone anniversary in style!
Why Should You Attend?
- 3 Hours of Non-Stop Fun: Bowl to your heart’s content, dance and sing along to 90’s classics from dueling pianos, challenge friends at pool and ping pong, and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.
- Food & Drinks Included: Enjoy a pizza and fajita buffet, plus an open bar featuring beer, wine, and soda throughout the evening.
- Exciting On-Site Fundraising Games: Take part in a wine pull, browse and bid in the silent auction, and join in additional fun games—all supporting a great cause.
- Support a Worthy Cause: All proceeds benefit the NATA Foundation, helping fund research, scholarships, and educational programs that strengthen the future of athletic training.
Important Information
- Limited Tickets Available: Space is limited- tickets must be purchased by June 15. Be sure to secure yours when registering for NATA 2026.
- Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Celebrate 35 years of impact, connect with colleagues, enjoy a high-energy night out, and support the profession- all in one unforgettable evening.
For more information, visit the NATA Foundation website.
12:45 to 2:45 p.m. EST Wednesday, July 1
Join us at the NATA Foundation’s Distinguished Scholars Presentation to engage with groundbreaking research and celebrate the achievements of the NATA Foundation’s award recipients. This session offers athletic trainers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research from leading health care professionals and to hear presentations from esteemed athletic training speakers. Don’t miss out on this dynamic exchange of knowledge, featuring presentations from top representatives of organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine, American Medical Society of Sports Medicine, and American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.
Additionally, we’ll be celebrating the NATA Foundation’s 2026 research award recipients and Free Communications awards—an event you won’t want to miss!
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST Tuesday, June 30
Be part of the NATA Foundation’s Mentor Meetup, a unique gathering for participants of our 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 Mentorship Programs! This engaging event offers the perfect opportunity to connect with peers, share goals and accomplishments, and build meaningful professional relationships. Celebrate collaboration, advocacy, and mentorship as you network with fellow participants and AT leaders and strengthen your ties within the athletic training community.
Advanced registration is required. Event and registration details can be found on the NATA Foundation website.
3 to 3:45 p.m. EST Wednesday, July 1
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect and celebrate at the Pinky Newell Scholarship and Student Leadership Reception, hosted by the NATA Research & Education Foundation. This premier networking event honors the NATA Foundation’s scholarship recipients, Deloss Brubaker Awardees for Student Writing, and NATA Bobby Gunn Student Leadership Award recipients. This reception promises an unforgettable time of recognition and connection. Secure your spot when registering for NATA 2026—or add it to your existing registration. Sign up now and be part of this special celebration!