The John “Doc” Baxter Athletic Training and Human Performance Lab

Emporia State is renovating, re-equipping and re-envisioning the Athletic Training and Human Performance Labs. The renovation will transform the two existing spaces into one multi-use lab and will name the new space for ESU icon John “Doc” Baxter (MS 67-Physical Education).

This new and improved lab will provide hands-on training for students pursuing the Bachelor of Science degree in health & human performance and the Master of Science degree in athletic training. The new layout will optimize the square footage and provide more space for faculty and students to work and learn alongside one another.

The lab will provide students real-world preparation for positions in health promotion, strength and conditioning, personal and athletic training, public administration and related areas. New equipment is a vital part of the re-envisioned lab. The enhanced lab will include elements like:

■ New equipment for students to measure body composition and bone density.

■ Treadmills, cycle and rowing ergometers to conduct metabolic and cardiorespiratory testing.

■ Devices to measure metabolic biomarkers, conduct blood analysis and analyze blood flow restriction.

These resources will expand students’ opportunities to work with university and community populations in activities like health fairs, fitness testing and triathlon training groups.

The renovations and investment in new equipment are being made possible by philanthropic support. A generous lead gift launched this project and will memorialize John ‘Doc’ Baxter by naming the lab in his honor.

From 1966 to 2012, Baxter was the head athletic trainer at Emporia State, and was named director of Athletic Medicine in 2010. Known for his deep devotion to Hornet Athletics, Baxter received numerous honors, including the ESU Athletics Hall of Honor, Emporia State HPER Hall of Honor, the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Hall of Fame, to name just a few. He was truly a legend whose impact lives on.

The John ‘Doc’ Baxter Athletic Training and Human Performance Lab will celebrate and immortalize Baxter’s dedication to athletic training at ESU. This project will create positive outcomes for students and the community. Students will gain exposure to new and varied cutting-edge equipment and the community will benefit from increased fitness resources. The lab will also serve as a powerful recruiting tool for prospective students, athletes and new faculty.