FAIRBANKS - The Alaska Nanooks and Director of Athletics, Brock Anundson, have named Thomas Malone as the next head athletic trainer of the Alaska Nanooks.
"I am excited to begin this new chapter at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and look forward to providing exceptional care while helping elevate the health and performance of its elite student-athletes," said Malone following his hiring. "UAF holds a special place in my heart, as my wife is an alumna, and I am grateful for the opportunity to join such a strong and connected community. I look forward to experiencing firsthand what makes this university so special. Go Nooks!"
Malone joins the Nanooks after five seasons with Troy University in Troy, Ala. Malone has served there as an assistant athletic trainer since Sept. 2021, assisting the track & field and cross country teams. As the lead for these programs, Malone provided comprehensive medical care to NCAA Division I student-athletes and developed, implemented, and updated Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for new and existing athletic facilities. In addition, he managed injury prevention, evaluation, and treatment while collaborating with physicians, coaches, and university administration to promote health and safety.
Before joining Troy University, Malone served as an athletic trainer at the University of Missouri from Sept. 2019 to June 2021, again, working with the track & field and cross country programs. While designing and implementing individualized rehab programs for injuries, he served as the lead for COVID-19 response efforts, including tracing and clearance protocols.
From Aug. 2017 to Sept. 2019, Malone served as the head athletic trainer at Vigor High School in Pritchard, Ala., directing sports medicine coverage for all high school athletes while supervising student assistants. There, he managed medical supplies, budgets, and physician referrals while also coordinating transport and necessary follow-up care.
Malone earned his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from the University of Alabama in May 2015 before adding a Master of Science in Sports Administration at Eastern Illinois in May 2017. While at EIU, he served as a graduate assistant athletic trainer, providing athletic training services to cross country, track & field, tennis, and football. Finally, in the summer of 2014, Malone served as an athletic training intern for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League.
He holds certifications through the Board of Certification (BOC), is a member of the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA), and is CPR/AED/First Aid certified through the American Heart Association.
"We're thrilled to welcome Thomas as our new Head Athletic Trainer," said Brock Anundson after announcing Malone's hiring. "His professionalism, experience across top-tier NCAA programs, and forward-thinking vision align seamlessly with the future we're building for Nanooks Athletic Training. With a fresh, innovative approach, Thomas is poised to elevate the care and performance of our student-athletes to the next level."
Malone's first day with the Nanooks is June 1, 2026.
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