From Nebraska to the NFL, Coby Rockenbach (NHS ‘24) is putting his athletic training education to work as a seasonal athletic training associate with the Detroit Lions for the 2026 season. Since graduating with his undergraduate degree from the College of Education and Human Sciences, Coby has continued building on his professional experiences while working toward a career in sports medicine. In this alumni Q&A, he reflects on his opportunities in CEHS that helped him get there, what he’s learning with the Lions and the advice he would give to students interested in athletic training.
Can you share a little about yourself, including your background, time in CEHS, and what you have been up to since graduating?
My name is Coby and I am originally from Crete, Nebraska. I graduated from Nebraska in 2024 with my Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Health Sciences. Once I graduated, I accepted a graduate intern athletic trainer position with the University of South Alabama football team. While working there I received my Master of Science in Sports Psychology from Pennsylvania Western University. After working there for two years, I accepted a seasonal athletic training associate position with the Detroit Lions, where I currently am now.
You earned your bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Health Sciences in athletic training as an undergraduate. What drew you to this area of study, and how did your experiences in the program shape your career path?
I was always interested in the connection of healthcare and performance. When I found out about athletic training, it gave me the opportunity to mesh those two things I was passionate about and combine that with my love for sports. My experiences at Nebraska taught me the importance of preparation, teamwork, work ethic and how to efficiently apply the skills I was learning in the classroom.
Were there any classes, faculty members, internships or experiences that were especially influential on your journey?
The faculty of the athletic training program here at UNL helped shape who I am today as a clinician. Dr. Perkey and Dr. Higgins were so great in my college career. Because of their guidance through my time at Nebraska, I was able to do a summer internship in the NFL while I was still in school. All of those opportunities were important for where I’m at today. I will always be grateful for everyone that helped me during my time in the athletic training program.
You recently accepted a position as a seasonal athletic trainer with the Detroit Lions. What will your role look like, and what are you most excited about as you begin this new chapter?
I’m so excited for this opportunity to learn from some of the smartest people in the sports medicine industry. Being able to continue growing as a clinician while working at the highest level of football is truly a blessing.
As interns, we’re involved in a little bit of everything. We help set up and tear down for practice each day, keep our travel trunks and athletic training room fully stocked, and assist with treatments and rehabs before and after practice. We also help compile injury-tracking data that contributes to NFL research. We’ve also had the opportunity to help see what it takes to prepare for a travel game in another country for our Germany game in November. It’s been an incredible experience so far to learn from the medical staff while getting hands-on experience at this level.
When you were an undergraduate at Nebraska, did you envision your career eventually leading to the NFL? What would you tell your college-age self now?
I never would have imagined being here in Detroit when I was an undergraduate. Looking back, I’d tell my college self to treat everyone with respect, because you never know who you’ll cross paths with again in this profession. I’d also emphasize the importance of staying curious, maintaining a strong work ethic and always paying attention to the details.
What has been the most rewarding part of a career in athletic training, and why?
The most rewarding part has been the relationships I’ve built and opportunity to make a meaningful impact on athletes’ health and performance. I’ve also really enjoyed the opportunity to travel across the country for games and experience different places throughout my career.
What skills have been most important to your success as an athletic trainer, beyond the technical knowledge you learned in school?
Beyond being a strong clinician, communication and interpersonal skills are essential in this profession. Sports medicine is a people business, and building trust and relationships with athletes, coaches and other members of the support staff is just as important as applying your clinical knowledge.
What’s one piece of advice you'd give to current students hoping to pursue a career in athletic training?
Be a lifelong learner, have intention with everything you do, and never give up on your dreams. Athletic training is a career that is built on relationships, teamwork and lifelong learning. Invest in the people around you and never be afraid to speak up and ask questions.
What does being a Husker alum mean to you?
Being a Husker alum means a lot to me because I was born and raised in Nebraska. I always dreamed of being a Husker, and getting to actually experience that and graduate as one makes it really special.
What’s next for you? Are there specific goals or initiatives you’re passionate about?
My goal is to get back into the college setting after my internship and continue to build as a person and clinician and hope one day to return to the NFL as an assistant athletic trainer.
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