Traveling with Canada's National Teams

Trish Hayton in Thailand

Traveling with a National Team is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, one that blends hard work, perseverance, and a bit of luck. Many people ask me how I ended up in this role and what it entails. Here’s a glimpse into the journey and what I do on the road as a sports physiotherapist.

The first step to getting here was qualifying. After graduating as a physiotherapist, I entered the Sports Physiotherapy education system, which involves gaining experience, completing a mentorship, and passing practical exams. Upon earning the Diploma of Sports Physiotherapy, I was qualified to work at international competitions. During the process, I built my experience, starting with local rugby, lacrosse, and hockey teams, before moving to provincial-level events and eventually the Canadian Games. However, the major leap in my career came when I left a clinic job I loved to work at the Pan and Parapan Am Games, which opened the door to international competitions.
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​Once qualified, my job begins long before we take off. Preparation is key. I pack a kit that includes everything needed for therapy, taping, first aid, and general health care. Over the years, I've perfected this kit, but there's always something new that pops up. For example, this trip’s unexpected item was hair elastics. As teams often don't travel with a nutritionist, I’m also responsible for gathering between game fuel such as energy bars, apple sauces, and electrolytes. In addition to packing, I research specific health risks at our destination. For instance, when we traveled to Thailand, I ensured all athletes and staff were up to date on necessary vaccines and provided education on local health concerns like water and mosquito-borne viruses. I also prepared heat strategies, as the temperatures in Bangkok were expected to reach 34-37°C.  This is a drastic change for a bunch of Canadian travelling in March. 

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Once we arrive, the work truly begins. On the ground, I’m responsible for daily treatments, first aid, and pre-game care. As the only medical support traveling with the team, I’ve had to address everything from pneumonia to food poisoning. Sports physiotherapists are often called upon to play multiple roles, including makeshift strength and conditioning coach, brace repair technician, and even mental therapist. Thankfully, I’m supported by a team of experts back home who assist with medical advice.
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Although there are challenges, I would not trade travelling with these teams for anything.   Through supporting our amateur teams, I get to see the world while striving for my ultimate goal – being part of team Canada at the Olympics.
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Trish Hayton is a Physiotherapist and Partner - Owner at Physio Sport Med of Oakville.