Assistant Professor of Athletic Training
Winthrop University
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Dr. Martha Rivera is a dedicated advocate for athletes' mental well-being, driven by a passion for mental health awareness and education within the sports community. Since earning certification in Mental Health First Aid in 2016, Martha has focused on promoting and implementing evidence-based mental health programs. As an assistant professor of athletic training and coordinator of clinical education at Winthrop University, her primary research revolves around developing and evaluating interventions that support athletes' psychological health. Through her work, Martha aims to foster environments where mental health is prioritized.
Before joining the Winthrop faculty, she was a licensed clinical athletic trainer for Winthrop University for four years and at Youngstown State University for four years prior. She served as the mental health liaison for Winthrop Athletics, assisting student-athletes to seek resources and professional help for mental health issues. While at YSU, she developed the program development plan and curriculum for the new Master of Athletic Training program.
Martha earned her Doctorate of Education in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2019. She previously completed her Master of Science in Athletic Training at Ohio University (2011–2013), serving as a graduate assistant athletic trainer. In 2011, Martha graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from East Stroudsburg University, where she was also a two-year member of the volleyball team. Martha enjoys weight training and exploring her area of Rock Hill, South Carolina, with her husband and three active, loving dogs in her free time.
TP5 - Evaluating the Impact of Mental Health First Aid on Youth Athlete Development and Wellbeing
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM ET