Shaina Sondakh- Dorantes MBA, LAT, ATC
Shaina Sondakh-Dorantes, MBA, LAT, ATC, serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine and Healthcare Administrator at Elon University, bringing over eight years of experience in athletic training and sports medicine. Since joining Elon five years ago, Shaina has worked closely with multiple sports programs, most notably the men’s basketball team, providing both clinical care and administrative oversight. Her career began in Michigan, where early exposure to athletics and healthcare inspired her path, leading her to earn degrees in Athletic Training and Healthcare Administration. Shaina’s professional expertise spans sports medicine administration, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and holistic care for student-athletes. In her current role, she balances daily administrative duties with hands-on responsibilities, including ankle taping, practice coverage, injury evaluation and treatment. She emphasizes long-term athlete health and performance while ensuring the smooth operation of Elon’s sports medicine program. Throughout her career, Shaina has achieved notable milestones, including the immediate care of a student athlete with a spinal cord injury—a defining moment that exemplifies her commitment to her athletes’ well-being. She has also received scholarships and mentorship awards during her academic journey, underscoring her dedication to excellence. Recognized for her leadership and influence, Shaina remains passionate about supporting other women in the field and fostering a professional network that empowers both colleagues and student-athletes alike.
• MBA
• LAT
• ATC
• University of Michigan- B.S.
• Concordia University Wisconsin - MBA
• National Athletic Trainers’ Association
• College Athletic Trainers' Society
• Mid-Atlantic Athletic Trainers Association
• Fellowship of Christian Athletes
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Many moons ago as a young and fresh athletic trainer, I was hit with a week of what some might call "bad days". I'd call it a nightmare. Injury after injury, a losing record, upset coaches, players, and parents, with no sleep, and a between you and me, probably a bad attitude. My supervisor suggested that I start keeping a "Sunshine Folder"; somewhere to put the little things that made me smile and make a rainy day a little less dreary. I wasn't sure at first what to keep inside of it - until I started to look around. A post-it note an athlete left with a coffee cup ring left on it, a holiday card from a family who's child graduated last year who stayed in touch, credentials from big wins and a national championship run. Tucked away in my desk drawer, to put it all in one place and keep it close. Something like this allows us to change our perspective and zoom out from the heaviness that can often hold our attention. Finding joy in all things and keeping my eyes out for sunshine helps me to serve the people around me to the best of my ability.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Have an 'attitude of gratitude'.
I often refer to athletic training as a "gritty" profession, this is often paired with terms like adaptable and patient-centered. We should be considered a Swiss army knife of a profession. Our education prepares us and allows us to provide care for our patients in a holistic manner. However, despite the most rewarding of days on the job, we work a tireless job. It is important to view each moment as an opportunity to care for and serve the person in front of you, therefore having this kind of attitude will allow you to focus on the most important part.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are faith, community, and nurturing relationships; whether supporting student-athletes, spending time with family, or caring for my new puppy, Dunkin', who has become a cherished part of my daily life, each area brings balance to my life. I also find importance in prioritizing balance, making time for travel, connection, and the joys that keep me grounded.