At Michigan State University, Certified Athletic Trainer Alexander Dailey, MEd, AT, ATC, has built his career around making a difference in the lives of patients by diminishing pain, increase the function of an injured area (both in range of motion and strength), facilitating an efficient return to play (or return to activity) progression, and mitigating the risk of re-injury. His work with club student-athletes, intramural student-athletes and general student population goes far beyond taping ankles or guiding rehabilitation programs. Each day, Dailey focuses on preventing injuries before they happen and ensuring every student who walks through his door leaves stronger than when they walked in.
Data-Driven Strategies for Injury Prevention
After more than a decade in the field, Dailey has witnessed the impact that data-driven care can have. His two current research projects awaiting approval with the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Michigan State University (MSU) aim to change how athletic trainers track and prevent injuries. The first study allows him to collect real-time data during rehabilitation. He analyzes the progress to identify the methods that most effectively help patients regain range of motion, strength, performance on functional tasks and return to activity.
The second focuses on injury risk mitigation. Dailey aims to utilize specific warm-up and cool-down programs for high-risk club sports over a three-year period. The data collected from these three years of warm-up and cool-down programs provides a reference point for three years of injury data prior to the program’s implementation. The purpose was to measure whether targeted prevention programs reduce injury risk and the magnitude of those changes.
These studies are part of Dailey’s vision for improved access to the health care system and mitigating the risk of injuries. He sees athletic trainers as essential voices in the shift. From his perspective, he and his cohorts can improve outcomes for all patients.
Insights for Effective Healing and Recovery
Dailey shares his expertise further as the co-author of “From Broken to Boss.” The book offers readers practical guidance on injury rehabilitation, strength building and mental resilience. It breaks down the complex process from “barely functional to fully functional.” The topics covered also include the different types of injuries, progression in rehabilitation and the mental challenges of recovery.
This publication aligns with Dailey’s goal of providing support for people to build a sense of control in their health. Additionally, it reflects his commitment to education, accessibility, and empowering others through knowledge. It is a companion guide to his hands-on work in the athletic training room.
Leadership Through Service and Advocacy
Dailey’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, the Michigan Athletic Trainers’ Society (MATS) honored him with the Outstanding Young Professional Award. He now serves as president-elect for the organization. This leadership role exemplifies his dedication to advocacy, professional development and community within the athletic training field.
Dailey has maintained a thriving 11-year career. He credits much of his success to his mentors, continued education, strong professional networks, and advocating for the patients he serves. As he sees it, athletic training is about serving others. Every role, from the University of Virginia to Michigan State University, has reinforced that singular idea for Dailey. Recently, he has expanded the advocacy repertoire through MSU’s Spartan Wellbeing Collective as a committee member of the Supports for Mental Health, Physical Health and Basic Needs Workgroup.
Better Care for Active Lives
In the near future, Dailey plans to disseminate his research to a broader audience. For example, he has plans to present a TEDx Talk on musculoskeletal disorders. These physical conditions are among the most common and costly health issues in the U.S. His long-term mission is to help people stay active, informed and injury-free through improved access to care and risk mitigation strategies.
Dailey believes athletic training is both a science and an art. Because of this, he works closely with his colleagues to adapt rehabilitation programs, a process that relies on the latest research and evidence-based methods. Through this collaborative approach, he can rebuild confidence, restore movement and give people the tools to live without limits.
Outside the athletic training room, Dailey values a balanced lifestyle. He spends his free time with his family, hiking, cooking and traveling. These moments remind him of how recovery allows individuals to continue pursuing their passions on and off the field.
