BOC Volunteer Spotlight – Larry Cooper, MS, LAT, ATC
The BOC would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our BOC volunteers who serve as BOC board members, committee, task force and workgroup members and exam item writers. The BOC welcomes volunteers from a variety of backgrounds. Visit the BOC website, to learn more about volunteer opportunities with the BOC.
In this feature, we would like to spotlight Glen “Larry” Cooper, MS, LAT, ATC; current member BOC Continuing Professional Certification (CPC) Task Force. Cooper was a member of the BOC Maintenance of Competence or “MOC” Task Force from 2016-2019 and selected to represent Athletic Trainers (ATs) in the secondary schools.
Cooper is a current AT and practiced as a secondary school AT for 35 years until his retirement. In addition to being a BOC volunteer, Cooper has been active within various athletic training professional groups at local, state and national levels. He has received numerous service awards, including the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Hall of Fame honor in 2020.
Why is volunteering for the BOC important to you?
The opportunity to be involved and completely understand what is new and coming in the future. To better understand the credentialing process and maintenance is extremely important. This always helps you stay on the cutting edge of change which ultimately benefits you and your patients.
What is the best or most rewarding part about volunteering with the BOC?
The relationships that you develop with fellow volunteers from around the country which are absolutely priceless.
How did you first come to know about a BOC volunteer opportunity?
I have always looked for ways to give back to this wonderful profession. While I have had more opportunities at the state, district and national level, the BOC was always something that I wanted to be involved with. When the time came, and the opportunity presented itself I jumped at the chance. I have not been disappointed. The staff and other volunteers are amazing people that are passionate about the success and improvement of our amazing profession.
What advice would you give to an AT looking to get involved as a BOC volunteer?
DO IT! You will be surprised at how much passion you will be exposed to, knowledge you will gain, insight into the profession especially the credentialing part and the friendships that you forge while you are working. Those friendships are priceless.
How has your experience volunteering at the BOC influenced you?
It really has allowed me to have a little different perspective than other ATs. When you see the work they are involved with from the beginning stages to the completion and every step in between, it makes you have a better understanding and appreciation for what the BOC does on our behalf. They are extremely important to the continued advancement of our profession.
This article was originally published in the 2022 summer “Cert Update” newsletter.
