AT Month Spotlight Bretton

National Athletic Training Month Spotlight: Bretton Butler '20, '23

3/17/2026 1:00:00 PM

By: Matt McIntosh '23
WINCHESTER, Va. - The month of March marks National Athletic Training Month, and this year, Shenandoah University Athletics is proud to spotlight its Sports Medicine department on its website and social media platforms throughout the month.

Our third spotlight of the month features Assistant Athletic Trainer Bretton Butler '20, '23 MS, LAT, ATC.

ABOUT BRETTON

Years at SU: Third Year
Sport Coverage: Men's Soccer, Men's Basketball, Men's Lacrosse
Alma Mater: Shenandoah University '20, '23

What made you become an Athletic Trainer?
"My high school athletic trainer, Mandy Carter, first introduced me to the field of athletic training, and I immediately fell in love with it. I had always known I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, but athletic training allows me to blend that goal with my passion for sports. It gives me the opportunity to play a big role in helping individuals heal and regain the ability to participate in the activities they love. I thrive on the adrenaline and fast-paced nature of the environment—it keeps every day exciting and challenges me to stay sharp. Another rewarding part of the profession is the opportunity to form meaningful connections with student-athletes and colleagues that can last a lifetime."

Why Shenandoah?
"I wanted to give back to the community and school that helped shape me into the person and professional I am today—one I am proud to call home. Returning in this role has truly been a full-circle moment, especially as someone who was once a student-athlete here myself. Each student-athlete is unique, and I enjoy getting to know them individually while watching them grow both personally and athletically. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping them recover and return to the sport they love, and then seeing them succeed not only on the field, but in all areas of their lives."

Favorite Memory at SU
"Choosing a favorite memory at SU is difficult because I have been here for so long—as my student-athletes would joke, since the dinosaurs roamed the earth. However, some of my favorite memories include serving as a preceptor and being able to give back to the program that helped shape me into the athletic trainer I am today. I have also loved hosting first-time playoff games and having the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with student-athletes and colleagues that often last well beyond their time at SU. And, of course, enjoying the beautiful sunsets over Shentel Stadium is always a special bonus."

As Shenandoah Athletics celebrates National Athletic Training Month, the department recognizes the dedication, compassion, and behind-the-scenes impact of its Sports Medicine staff. Athletic trainers play a vital role in supporting student-athletes through prevention, recovery, and performance, helping them compete safely while providing care both on and off the field. Throughout the month of March, Shenandoah University Athletics will continue highlighting the individuals who work tirelessly to keep Hornet student-athletes healthy and ready to compete.

#GoSUHornets
 
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