Kayla Dowler returns to Southern Utah University as an athletic trainer, reconnecting with a place that played a pivotal role in her personal and professional journey. A proud SUU alumna, Kayla competed as a member of the Thunderbird volleyball team while earning her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. Her time as a student-athlete at SUU sparked a deep interest in athletic training and sports performance, ultimately shaping the direction of her career.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Kayla pursued a Master’s degree in Athletic Training at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. While at UW–Madison, she had the opportunity to work with a wide range of collegiate athletes across multiple sports, including football and rowing. Her hands-on clinical experiences helped her develop a comprehensive skill set in injury prevention, evaluation, rehabilitation, and overall athlete wellness. These diverse experiences have allowed her to bring a well-rounded and evidence-based approach to her practice.
Kayla’s upbringing was shaped by frequent moves, which exposed her to a variety of communities and sports cultures across the country. She has called several states home, including Georgia, Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Utah. Each place helped shape her adaptable and outgoing personality, as well as her passion for building strong relationships with the athletes and teams she supports.
Outside of her professional life, Kayla is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, paddleboarding, and exploring nature. She spends much of her free time adventuring with her dog, Kali, who’s become her constant companion on the trails and in everyday life.
Kayla is excited to return to SUU and give back to the community that helped launch her career. She looks forward to supporting Thunderbird athletes both on and off the field and contributing to a culture of health, performance, and resilience.
