Aaron has earned the complete trust of our coaches, and parents. He communicates to the highest degree. Our staff trusts him and the AXES staff completely with the care of our students.

Aaron makes himself available as needed. During the fall he is available every Saturday. In addition to the crazy hours he works he makes himself available by phone to our coaches and families. Additionally he travels to as many post season events as possible. He works diligently to get our kids in to doctors as needed as quickly as possible.

In addition to his duties to our high school Aaron is the AXES manager and supervisors for their Athletic Trainers. He is often on rare nights off traveling to support them, and mentor them at their location. He meets with them, their coaches, and administration to help guide them in growth.

Aaron has a diverse background in athletic training including working with the St. Louis Cardinals which helps him impact in our area. I know he has met with local leaders from other Athletic Trainer programs to discuss how to bring more people into the profession, and more importantly how to deal with the ongoing shortage.

Aaron puts a high priority on community. In the rare cases that he misses work it is almost always for Has earned the respect of the staff that they work with and the student-athletes or patients they care for
Goes beyond their job description to support their student-athletes or patients
Mentors other athletic trainers in terms of career development
Has taken action to advance the athletic training profession
Prioritizes community service service. He continues to work dream camps, and several community service events with the cardinals throughout the year.

Nominated by
Jason Green from Holt High School
E: [email protected] | W: 636-327-3876 | P: 314-574-9930

Aaron works tirelessly in many areas of his life. He is a key cog in running the Southwestern Conference Athletic Trainer annual continuing education conference each summer for the last 10 years. He has taken on roles both in IHSA SMAC and IATA secondary schools committee co-chair. ATs from the area certainly appreciate his efforts. He is very active in both roles which have included bringing Korey Stringer Institute’s TUFSS conference to Illinois for the first time. Out of this a major upgrade to state policies on heat illness occurred. Aaron also managed the state association safety in football initiative this year. He continues to advocate for the health and safety of not only his student athletes but athletes throughout the state. He continues to work on educating stakeholders on the importance of athletic training in secondary schools and is helping to develop relationships with them. He additionally work equally as hard to support his family and community. He and his family have worked to support charitable events specifically supporting autism charities.

Nominated by
Andy Renner from Alton High school
E: [email protected] | W: 6187913592 | P: 6187913592

Aaron is always going the extra mile for the kids and the school. He travels to away games and works tournaments for teams. He will be at the tournament 10 to 12 hours a day. Never complains and just does his job as a trainer. He is a single parent and does a great job with his daughter. He is a great candidate for the award.

Nominated by
Tim Whitis from Mccracken County
E: [email protected] | W: 270-519-2716 | P: 270-519-2716

Alex has gone above and beyond in all aspects of her job. She is an outstanding communicator to coaches, players and parents. She hold our athletes accountable and drives them to be the best they can be and get back out to participate.

Nominated by
Alex Camper from Deer Park High School
E: [email protected] | W: 5132148542 | P: 5132148542

Alex is a hard-working, dedicated, passionate and caring person that gives her all to take care of our athletes here at Southside High School. She spends countless hours covering games and practices without a single complaint. She assists the AD with grant writing to get much needed rehab equipment that the school budget didn’t allow for. Alex mentors 3-5 students each year who aspire to be athletic trainers and allows them to assist her on game nights and learn first-hand what the job entails. Most of all, Alex is highly respected by our entire athletic department and we are thankful she here with us. In addition to her countless hours here, she also serves as an AT on weekends for various youth soccer leagues that her husband is involved with on a volunteer basis and also serves as the head trainer for the semi-professional women’s soccer league here in town known as the Greenville Liberty SC. She definitely sacrifices her life to give back through her AT work. I highly recommend Alex. You will not find a more passionate and caring trainer in the profession. She is truly amazing.

Nominated by
Jim Shuman from Southside High School / Athletic Director
E: [email protected] | W: 8643558734 | P: 8434225917

I am honored to nominate Alexis Alzona for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award. Alexis is in her 5th year as our athletic trainer and she is such a valuable member of our school community. We had 4 different trainers in my first 6 years here, so Alexis has brough stability to our sports medicine offering. We are on our third different AT provider since she started, but we have insisted that Alexis remains our trainer through each change.

Alexis is one of the nicest, compassionate, and empathetic people I have ever met. She is tremendous at her job and she always does it with a smile on her face. She works long hours but has never once complained. Our school has grown by over 200 students since she has been here, and she has handled the increase in sports teams and athletes flawlessly. Our student-athletes adore Alexis, and they feel very comfortable approaching her. This is once again due to her warm, welcoming, and respectful personality. Despite her overall kindness, she does a great job controlling the training room and only allowing those in who are actually hurt and need to see her. She is extremely organized to go along with the great discipline, which keeps the training room moving smoothly.

Every pre-season sports meeting that we have, Alexis gets a rousing ovation from both the parents and student-athletes in attendance. I constantly receive positive feedback from parents about how great Alexis is. I have had multiple coaches, our principal, our president, and other staff members tell me whatever we do, we can’t lose Alexis. In her five years here, I have not received a single complaint from a coach, parent, or student-athlete. That is extremely rare in this day and age.

Beyond Alexis’ knowledge and excellent execution of her job, she truly goes above and beyond for our student-parents. It is very apparent that she genuinely cares about our students, and her empathy for seriously injured students helps to keep them from getting too down about their injury. Alexis also goes out of the way to communicate with parents whenever a student-athlete is injured and remains in touch with them throughout their rehab process. I know parents really appreciate the extra effort that she puts in and the follow-up calls that she makes in the days after a serious injury to check in on the student-athlete. Alexis has always displayed the mentality of whatever it takes when performing her job. She is a consummate professional who beyond her job description on a daily basis.

Beyond her work with our student-athletes, Alexis is a true advocate for the athletic training profession. She has had multiple college athletic training interns while she has been here. Those interns have benefitted greatly by learning from her. Additionally, she developed and has grown a student-trainer program at our school. She has 10-15 students annually who are student trainers. She teaches these students so much about the profession and gives them the confidence to perform some of the basic tasks that are allowed to be completed by a student. Our student trainers spend countless hours with Alexis because they like her so much and truly enjoy being around her and helping out in the training room or at practices and games. Some of our student-trainers have expressed that they plan to pursue athletic training as a career because of their experience with Alexis. In addition to growing the profession through a student-trainer program, Alexis constantly advocates for Athletic trainers. She always ensures that any important information from our AT provider is shared at athletic events or through social media and parent emails.

Finally, Alexis definitely prioritizes community service. She serves our community by offering free injury screens to all faculty and staff. She will also see any faculty or staff member at anytime in the training room. Additionally, she organizes and facilitates athletic physicals with our team doctor to make it easy on families. She supports any service initiatives our athletic teams are engaged in, and she also is involved in community service in her personal life.

In the end, I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award than Alexis Alzona. She is a true servant-leader who has had a tremendous positive impact on our entire school community. Her expertise in the field combined with her outstanding character and personality make her the perfect athletic trainer. Our school community and our student-athletes are better for having Alexis as a key leader in our school.

Thank you for considering Alexis Alzona for this award!

Most Respectfully,

Tim Chandler, CMAA
Athletic Director
St. Laurence High School
Burbank, IL

Nominated by
Tim Chandler from St. Laurence High School
E: [email protected] | W: 708-931-6164 | P: 630-347-8170

Alicia has done an outstanding job this year with our sports programs. She did a great job the year before, even though she missed some time with the birth of her son. She’s made accommodations with each sport wherever they need help, and she’s been willing to stay late or come early. Whatever the case may be, she’s been a great asset to our sports program.

Alicia has made it a point to seek out new athletic trainers from competing teams, and has been willing to show them various things that will make their jobs easier.

Once again, she has gone above and beyond numerous times. She managed to cover football practice, while also helping the wrestling program get started with hydration testing. After that, she will come up to the basketball gym and cover both boys and girls basketball workouts. She puts a lot of time in that often goes unnoticed. Then she still manages to make it home and spend time with her son.

I believe that she would be a great example of everything that this award embodies.

Nominated by
Brent Gates from Lincolnton High School
E: [email protected] | W: 704-473-1856 | P: 704-473-1856

To whom it may concern,

I am writing today to nominate our Athletic Trainer, Alina McDonald, as the most valuable Athletic Trainer of the year.
Alina is in her second year at York Prep as Athletic Trainer and in that short time has been vital in the support and growth of our athletic program. We are a smaller 2A school and Alina brings a wealth of knowledge and ability typically found at much larger schools with much larger athletic programs. Although we do not have a football team at York Prep, Alina has shown that she can handle multiple sports in season at the same time and multiple athletes in various stages of diagnosis, injury and rehabilitation all on her own while inspiring confidence in our athletes that are in more than capable hands. In her time here she has not only gained the trust and confidence of our athletes but the coaches and administrators as well by displaying confidence in her own abilities and thorough evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of our athletes in order to return them to play as quickly as possible. As part of the return to play she monitors injuries employing effective rehab protocols to insure the athlete is stronger and equipped with the confidence that their needs are being served to perform at the level they were prior to injury. As the Strength and Conditioning Coach I have had the opportunity to work directly with her to adjust workouts and to accommodate an athlete’s injury while still progressing them towards a full return to play after injury.
Alina has furthered her role as Athletic Trainer by taking on a teaching position with a Sports Medicine class as well as serving in a joint Athletic Director capacity. She has single handedly developed an in depth curriculum to include such topics as nutrition, anatomy, head to toe injuries, treatments and basic wraps and taping along with CPR training. The class is geared towards upperclassmen who already have an interest in the field or who want to learn more about Athletic Training as a possible career choice. As an athletic director she has worked to coordinate game schedules for all of our teams as well as securing referees and transportation to and from contests in addition to communicating practice schedules and maintaining equipment inventories.
Finally, Alina balances all of her Athletic Training and teaching responsibilities with her own training as a professional pole vaulter. The school agreed to work around her training schedule and as such that has been made a part of her already busy day between teaching and before after school practices begin. Alina’s career has been highlighted by both national and international achievements such as an 8th place finish at the US Olympic Trials, placing second in the 2022 Outdoor USA Nationals and taking first place over this past summer while representing Team USA Track and Field at the North American, Central American, Caribbean Championships held in the Bahamas. She also volunteers her own time while not training or competing to mentor younger pole vaulters coming into the sport in various age ranges into high school and beyond.
Alina has proven to be an integral part of our athletic program here at York Prep and continues to fill multiple roles with the same focus and dedication that has vaulted her to such a high level of professional competition. Whether in the athletic training room or the classroom, she has displayed time and again the ability to maintain a high level of professionalism and dedication to both caring for our athletes and inspiring the next generation of Athletic Trainers while setting the example of a lifetime dedication to being an athlete herself.

Sincerely,
Adam McGugan, CSCS, NSCA-CPT

Nominated by
Adam McGugan from York Preparatory Academy
E: [email protected] | W: (803)324-4400 | P:

Allison goes above and beyond to support our student athletes. She attends practices daily, runs rehabs and injury prevention constantly. She then attends all football games, home soccer, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, baseball, softball and track contests. All while working off-site.

The hours she puts in are endless. She’s a great, extemely appreciated, resource for our students

Nominated by
Nick Bamer from Tenino HS
E: [email protected] | W: 3607914758 | P: 3605892271

Hard-working, patient, thorough, and kind, Amy Annette is one of the most valued, trusted, and respected individuals on our campus. Constantly working to connect with others and to hone her craft, she gives top-notch care to all our athletes, not just for game day injuries, but also for preventative and rehabilitative purposes. Her strong relationships extend beyond our campus to other athletic directors, local doctors, and club sports organizations. We are fortunate to have her as our AT and believe she is deserving of this special recognition.

Nominated by
Laura Stoner from Hampton Roads Academy
E: [email protected] | W: 7578849155 | P: 7573421548

Having been an AD for over 25 years, I can truly attest that Mr. Drew Cavey is the best I have EVER worked with! He meets all 5 points of this criteria. We have 155 coaches that he services and has the complete respect, trust and confidence of every coach, student athlete, and parent that is involved in Brighton Athletics! Drew calls parents on injuries not just the initial call but follow up calls, helps them with appoints, rehab, and return to play diligently regardless of sport or level. He mentors other CAT in S.E. Michigan and is always there for every kid at every contest, regardless of which team they are on and likewise has responded to medical emergencies in the crowd. Mr. Cavey has built a robust student trainer program at Brighton which has helped numerous kids after graduation as they move on to medical studies in their post high school experiences. On the last criteria, Mr. Cavey has willing always stepped up to cover Unified Sports, community events, school based non-ath. dept events and always does so with the same professionalism and care as if it was a Varsity event. Here are some snippets from some of our parents and kids which should shine a light on this extraordinary person and professional: JT,
I just wanted to send you a note to tell you how much Drew has ment to our family. Jacalynn has trained under him for 3 years and has gone onto Hope College and is better prepared than the juniors there. Drew has done a great job preparing her and teaching her. Now Kendra is in her second year under Drew and he has excepted her after she was cut from the volleyball team the very next day Drew said join us! Kendra feels like she has found her place also.
Now my youngest is playing volleyball and has gotten hurt already and Drew has helped her get back on the court quickly!
I just can’t imagine Bright High School without Drew. He means so much to so many people! Hi Mr Thompson,

I was just thinking how fortunate we are to have drew and the other trainers who take care of us at football and really appreciate how drew always is there for sports and really takes pride in his work. I just wanna say how great he is and how lucky we are to have a trainer as good as him.
Thank you,
Mason Mullally

Hello All;

I wanted to reach out to all of you to praise Drew Cavey. First and foremost, Drew has always done a great job with the students, injured or not. I have witnessed this firsthand, but only relatively minorly, until last Friday. Cade’s injury was a devastating event for all of us, but Drew handled Cade, Hunter and us very calmly and reassuringly. His initial assessment of Cade’s injury was spot-on (unfortunately) and he moved quickly to get Cade stable. Furthermore, Drew moved Heaven and Earth to get Cade into an orthopedic doctor and pre-hab as soon as humanly possible. He even volunteered to go with us to the appointment. Drew has repeatedly gone above and beyond for us all, helping Cade during the school day and taking my endless calls and text questions. I just want to make sure that Drew is recognized for all his hard, excellent and compassionate work.

Thank you!

Clarissa Riddle

These are just from the last couple months but represent the feed back that I get from our coaches, kids, and their parents each and every season regarding Mr. Drew Cavey. Please give him your strongest consideration for this recognition as he is truly deserving in being recognized for his selfless service to all!

John Thompson, C.M.A.A., Ed’S
District Administrator
Brighton Area Schools
Brighton, MI

Nominated by
John David Thompson from Brighton Area Schools
E: [email protected] | W: 8102994186 | P: 8102231613

April has put in so much effort to give the best quality care she can for her athletes. She is always teaching her student athletic trainers what it is to be a great athletic trainer. Within the past year she saved an athletes life by performing CPR and implementing her emergency action plan. She was recognized by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and the Athletic Trainers Association of Florida for her life saving measures. She always goes above and beyond for all her athletes.

Nominated by
Alexander Cardona from EMT/ Fire fighter
E: [email protected] | W: 7869756882 | P:

April Gonzalez was my student athletic trainer when she was in high school over 10 years ago. She begged me to let her be part of my staff because she really wanted to learn this profession of athletic training. What does she do? She learned the ankle tape in 2 weeks. April took all her high school experiences and pursued Athletic Training as a career. Now, being the Head Athletic Trainer at a high school, working in the same county as myself, I have a full circle moment all the time. We talk every so often and catch up on personal and work life. About a year ago, she applied everything she learned. April performed CPR on her athlete that collapsed after practice. When rescue arrived, they attached AED immediately and assited her. The athlete was transported to nearby hospital where later on was transported via helicopter to a trauma hospital and eventually had surgery for his heart, and was implanted a pacemaker. Today, this athlete is alive because of April and her competence as an Athletic Trainer. I cannot be more proud of her for what she did that day. For her quick reaction, calm demeanor, and experience. This acknowledgement would be so amazing for her, as a reminder that her job is worth more than she can relate to the every day hassle and bustle of a high school facility/setting. April can look up at this recognition and give herself a pat on the back to confirm that she is doing something right every day as an Athletic Trainer.
Thank you.

Nominated by
Linette Lam from John A. Ferguson Senior High School
E: [email protected] | W: 305-408-2700 | P:

Mrs Ashley Holt is an outstanding Athletic Trainer that goes above and beyond for all of the athletes in our athletic programs. She exhibits all of the characteristics that one would want in an athletic trainer. She communicates effectively with coaches and parents and has won the respect of the entire coaching staff. She teaches First Responder and EMR classes to the students and does an outstanding job. It is an honor to nominate Mrs Ashley Holt as the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award.

Nominated by
Marvin Hall from Pineville High School
E: [email protected] | W: 318-442-8990 | P: 318-528-9395

Bailee has done a phenomenal job in the 2 years she’s been on staff. She worked Men’s Basketball, Volleyball, Crew, Fencing and Football in her short time here. She’s very caring and skilled which translates well with our student-athletes. Bailee mentors several of our AT & PT students. She’s started a local AT summit with AT from around the area as well as met with legislators to change existing laws.

Nominated by
Kevin Addison from Temple University
E: [email protected] | W: 8034679652 | P:

Bert has been at Boston College since 1996. This is his 26th year at Boston College and his 15th year as director of athletic training for Olympic sports. During this time, Bert has created a culture of trust, knowledge and empathy for all 700 plus athletes at Boston College. Bert consistently works 12 – 16 hour days. Starting in the morning at 6 am hockey workouts leading up to 7pm Doctor clinics. This is very important to Bert because he feels his job as an athletic trainer is to be there for his athletes when they need him the most at time they are at their weakest. He helps guide the female and male athletes through some of their toughest times in their athletic careers. Bert consistently has both female and male athletes return to see him well after they graduate. He has pro hockey players that come into Boston to play the Bruins make a point to stop by BC to see him and most times have him treat them.

Bert mentors new hires at Boston College, especially resident Athletic Trainers who are new to the profession and helps with the transition into Division 1 athletics. Bert fosters an environment that promotes growth and support for new athletic trainers. Although Bert is primarily assigned to men’s ice hockey, he is loved and respected by athletes from multiple sports here at Boston College.

Bert goes above and beyond to foster relationships with athletes and support them in personal development as well as athletically. He is rock of support for mental well being as a whole person to excel in their lives outside sport. He continues to volunteer time to support any needs of the Boston College athletic community past and present in what ever capacity he can. Embodies mind, body and spirit in efforts to all he encounters to ever to excel in Life.

Nominated by
Russell DeRosa from Boston College
E: [email protected] | W: 617-552-2155 | P: 978-979-7994

Betsy works with all student-athletes on a daily basis, assisting them with nutritional planning and setting strength and conditioning programs that are outside of her normal duties. She is able to set up planning and programing for mental health issues and has purchased software to create baseline information to assist student-athletes and help to recognize early warning signs to assist with interventions.
Betsy also works has developed a student trainer program that includes scholarships for those interested in the medical fields. She mentors four (4) student-trainers and has created an educational program to program to train them in basic first aid, CPR, and AED certifications. She works with those students and requires the “Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries” course for all her student-trainers. Betsy is service oriented and responsible for over 100 student-athletes. She also mentors and treats some of our faculty, staff, and coaches with personal injuries and rehabilitation programs. She is able to work with and mentor several of our local high school athletic trainers and conducts workshops for those interested in improving their skills and applications.

Nominated by
MIchael Matulia from Lake-Sumter State College
E: [email protected] | W: 3535162235 | P: 3525162235

Brad is the head AT of our 3 ATs at HF High School whom also works with Athletico. He’s been at HF for +15 years. All of our coaches and student-athletes trust him! In fact when someone needs to be seen we say, “Go see Brad.”

He goes beyond the scope of his duties in multiple ways such as working insanely past his contracted hours, heading both the academic and scholastic concussion protocols, checking and monitoring +8 AED machines, certifying COR/AED applicants, managing 3 different training rooms on campus, among many other duties. Brad also regularly subs in the building during the day as well!

Brad has recently built a HS AT Intership program mentoring aspiring students that would like to become ATs. The ATs take a summer course (for credit) on AT before the internship starts that goes through all 3 of our athletic seasons servicing our 31 sports. 1 other item of importance is that the class is full meaning that there is a waiting list to be considered for an internship or take the class and an application process. It really is an outstanding set up! It’s exciting to talk to all of the students about their excitement to become ATs.

Brad and his staff also volunteer for community events such as being available for our 1/2 marathon “The Gem” among other community events he is asked to help with. He also has volunteered to be an AT at State Series events for certain sports.

I’m the strength coach and find Brad and ATs so important as I refer to Brad’s/AT’s words as the “bible”. We will never go against his words! Thanks for the consideration of Brad Kleine.

Nominated by
Adam Vogel from Homewood Flossmoor HS (IL)
E: [email protected] | W: 708-335-5340 | P: 815-922-4360

Brad Robinson has been here for 20 years. He recently became the Asst. Athletic Director for the high school. He manages 29 teams and has recently started visiting McBee High School down the road to help them during the week with the trainer shortage. Brad is also the supervisor for trainers at Coker College, the Governor’s School, and McBee High. Brad helps me with our Student Leadership Council that meets every three weeks mentoring student-athletes. Everyone in our town knows Brad Robinson and has high respect for what he does in our community.

Nominated by
Brad Boob from Hartsville High School Athletic Director/Darlington County School District
E: [email protected] | W: 843-857-3804 | P: 704-877-2574

Brandon is single handedly holding down the fort at a Division II college where we are supposed to have 2 full time trainers. He has worked day in and day out through the entire fall season treating student athletes for games, practices, scrimmages, and just general rehab. He is around 6 days a week most of the time 12+ hour days. His dedication is unmatched.

Nominated by
Taylor Rapuano from Goldey Beacom College
E: [email protected] | W: 3025622418 | P:

Brent earned a bachelor’s degree in Education with a concentration in Sports Medicine from University of Louisiana @ Lafayette in 2000. He later received State Athletic Training and National Athletic Training certifications. Brent began working at Physical Therapy Clinic of Lafayette and serving St. Thomas More athletes in 2000. He is a national certified athletic trainer working with 14 sports at the school in addition to working with Physical Therapy Clinic of Lafayette. Brent spends countless hours during the school day tending to our athletes’ injuries and takes all the preventive measures to ensure any/all athletes are equipped and ready to practice and/or play each day. He is also on site for all practices and games throughout the school year.

Nominated by
brent hoffpaauir from st thomas more catholic high school
E: [email protected] | W: 337-988-3700 | P: 337-280-1767

Brian Cronin has been with Oswego HS for the last 22 years. Brian has grown the OHS sports medicine and training department into one of the top programs in the state during his tenure. In my 31 years as both a coach and athletic administrator, Brian is the finest trainer I have had the pleasure of dealing with. His commitment to excellence and his passion for his program and the students that he both develops and takes care of is second to none.
Since I arrived at Oswego eleven years ago, Brian has been instrumental in working with me on a number of projects in our athletic department. He and his staff have worked diligently to improve our processes and procedures to the degree that we were awarded the Safe Schools Award for school years 2014-2023. Our Sports Medicine program and Athletic Training program have also won the prestigious District 230 competition in the last few years.
Brian has been the cornerstone in developing our concussion protocol, return to play protocol, emergency procedures, lightning and tornado detection systems and procedures, athletic training handbooks for coaching staffs and parents, informational sheets and data for parents on concussions and protocol. He also continues to serve on our concussion protocol team as well as being a valued member of the community.
Brian is also a valued member of the teaching staff at OHS. He has developed and teaches a sports medicine class that has both a classroom component as well as an internship requirement which places students in live situations at both practices and games. Brian’s work assures that we have training coverage at every practice and event that we host all during our school year as well as during our summer camps, which is certainly not the norm at most high schools in this state or country.
Brian has a passion for working with our students as well as our student athletes. He spends countless hours at our events, even when he is not scheduled to be there. Not only does he work our home events, but he quite often will travel to road games which he is not required to be at because he wants to be sure that our athletes feel safe and get the very best of care during those unfortunate occurrences when injuries do occur.
On numerous occasions Brian has traveled with a student athlete to the hospital in the ambulance when they are hurt and a parent is not available at the game to go with the injured athlete. Brian is outstanding at communication with the families and the athletic office and he always makes it a point to follow up with injured players and their parents to be sure all is going as well as it possibly can.
Oswego High School has seen a huge growth in student population, athletic activity and athletic offerings in the last decade or so. We have grown from a school of fourteen hundred students to our current enrollment of just over twenty eight hundred and we are projected to grow to thirty two hundred in the next decade. Along with that we have added sports to put us at our current offering of twenty nine varsity sports with 2 to 3 lower levels in each of those sports. This growth has only added to the expectations and responsibilities of our athletic training staff. The schedule of daily practices and home events is often overwhelming and the coverage needed in the athletic training arena is certainly stretched to the maximum on most days. Brian uses his years of experience as well as his organizational skills to place both his certified staff as well as his sports medicine interns in key positions and by his use of technology such as radios, cell phones, on-line sports medicine tracking, i-pads, and cellular serviced lightning detection systems he keeps all our fields, courts, tracks, etc. covered for the entirety of our practice and game times.
In my role as athletic director, I am often in the position to receive the complaints of parents, opposing teams, coaches, etc. that come with any position of leadership. However, I am also often in the position to receive the credit and compliments when things go well and for the outstanding work of our staff. On multiple occasions I have received praise for the work and actions of the training and sports medicine staff for their outstanding work and actions in times of crisis and injury. Obviously it makes me very proud of what we all do, but especially of Brian Cronin and his staff and students.
It has been an honor to work with Mr. Cronin and I am honored to nominate him for this award which I feel he is more than deserving of. Thank you for your time in reading and accepting this nomination and also for providing the platform to allow me to make this nomination

Nominated by
Darren Howard from Oswego HS
E: [email protected] | W: 6306362022 | P: 6304308500

Brian Cronin has been with Oswego HS for the last 23 years. Brian has grown the OHS sports medicine and training department into one of the top programs in the state during his tenure. In my 31 years as both a coach and athletic administrator, Brian is the finest trainer I have had the pleasure of dealing with. His commitment to excellence and his passion for his program and the students that he both develops and takes care of is second to none.
Since I arrived at Oswego eleven years ago, Brian has been instrumental in working with me on a number of projects in our athletic department. He and his staff have worked diligently to improve our processes and procedures to the degree that we were awarded the Safe Schools Award for school years 2014-2023. Our Sports Medicine program and Athletic Training program have also won the prestigious District 230 competition in the last few years.
Brian has been the cornerstone in developing our concussion protocol, return to play protocol, emergency procedures, lightning and tornado detection systems and procedures, athletic training handbooks for coaching staffs and parents, informational sheets and data for parents on concussions and protocol. He also continues to serve on our concussion protocol team as well as being a valued member of the community.
Brian is also a valued member of the teaching staff at OHS. He has developed and teaches a sports medicine class that has both a classroom component as well as an internship requirement which places students in live situations at both practices and games. Brian’s work assures that we have training coverage at every practice and event that we host all during our school year as well as during our summer camps, which is certainly not the norm at most high schools in this state or country.
Brian has a passion for working with our students as well as our student athletes. He spends countless hours at our events, even when he is not scheduled to be there. Not only does he work our home events, but he quite often will travel to road games which he is not required to be at because he wants to be sure that our athletes feel safe and get the very best of care during those unfortunate occurrences when injuries do occur.
On numerous occasions Brian has traveled with a student athlete to the hospital in the ambulance when they are hurt and a parent is not available at the game to go with the injured athlete. Brian is outstanding at communication with the families and the athletic office and he always makes it a point to follow up with injured players and their parents to be sure all is going as well as it possibly can.
Oswego High School has seen a huge growth in student population, athletic activity and athletic offerings in the last decade or so. We have grown from a school of fourteen hundred students to our current enrollment of just over twenty nine hundred and we are projected to grow to thirty two hundred in the next decade. Along with that we have added sports to put us at our current offering of twenty seven varsity sports with 2 to 3 lower levels in each of those sports. This growth has only added to the expectations and responsibilities of our athletic training staff. The schedule of daily practices and home events is often overwhelming and the coverage needed in the athletic training arena is certainly stretched to the maximum on most days. Brian uses his years of experience as well as his organizational skills to place both his certified staff as well as his sports medicine interns in key positions and by his use of technology such as radios, cell phones, on-line sports medicine tracking, i-pads, and cellular serviced lightning detection systems he keeps all our fields, courts, tracks, etc. covered for the entirety of our practice and game times.
In my role as athletic director, I am often in the position to receive the complaints of parents, opposing teams, coaches, etc. that come with any position of leadership. However, I am also often in the position to receive the credit and compliments when things go well and for the outstanding work of our staff. On multiple occasions I have received praise for the work and actions of the training and sports medicine staff for their outstanding work and actions in times of crisis and injury. Obviously it makes me very proud of what we all do, but especially of Brian Cronin and his staff and students.
It has been an honor to work with Mr. Cronin and I am honored to nominate him for this award which I feel he is more than deserving of. Thank you for your time in reading and accepting this nomination and also for providing the platform to allow me to make this nomination.

Nominated by
Darren Howard from Oswego HS
E: [email protected] | W: 6306362022 | P: 6304308500

Brian has been the Athletic Trainer at in Brooke County for 14 year. He has proven to be a dedicated trainer to his players and coaches. Brian takes a proactive role in athlete health, working with athletes both pre and post injury. He has shown to be a valuable resource to HS students who wish to pursue Athletic Training as a career by having Student Trainers work with him throughout his time here. Brian also has served as a site supervisor for local college ATC students. Brian works with our local conference to assist them in providing coverage for their championship events and all star games.
Brian has served as a game manager for Athletics over the past 67 years also, taking on the added responsibility of set up and tear down in addition to his normal responsibilities.
In summary, Brian has proven to be a valuable asset to Brooke County athletics and and the local community in general.

Nominated by
Sean Blumette from Brooke County Schools
E: [email protected] | W: 304-527-1410 | P: 412-607-6671

Bryan is always a valuable resource to myself and his other colleagues. He is very knowledgeable about Athletic Training and emergency medicine as he is also an EMT. He leads training for fellow Athletic Trainers and other hospital staff on a regular basis and is always making himself available to help out coworkers.

Nominated by
Landon LaLonde from Avondale High School, Corewell Health
E: [email protected] | W: 9892058839 | P: 989-205-8839

Bryce is an outstanding person that works tirelessly to make sure all his programs needs are met. Many challenges existed this year including two Athletic Trainers taking new jobs during the year. Bryce was able to take care of two different schools prioritizing their needs. If he was double booked he was able to reach out and obtain coverage for one of the schools. Bryce Walter earns this high recommendation!

Nominated by
Matt Biehler from Conway Springs High School
E: [email protected] | W: 6204562963 | P: 620-440-1347

Candice, is not only a wonderful trainer, but a wonderful person. She consistently keeps our athletes healthy and will go out of her way to make sure each one of our athletes gets the care they need. Coming from NCAA D1 and Professional Baseball, the care that she provides is unmatched. She treats every one of our athletes like her own child. She gives everything she has to our department while being a mother to an autistic child . You could not find a person more qualified for this award. We are absolutely blessed to have Candice and I hope we keep her for as long as possible.

Nominated by
Bryce Shafer from Kankakee CC
E: [email protected] | W: 8158028613 | P:

We have over 20 different sports at Rome High and until this year, Chad has been the only trainer. He has always worked with all of our sports to care for, prepare, rehab, and provide positive motivation to help each athlete “get back out there”.
He goes beyond the normal job description by communicating to coaches, giving positive advice to athletes, truly caring about their injuries, and working with our lower level sports (middle school) to make sure they are taken care of.
Chad graduated from Rome High, so he understands our student-athletes. He attends every sporting event and in quiet moments in the training room, provides life lessons to those athletes. He is able to learn in those quiet moments details of kids life’s and can provide respected advice.
Our system was able to hire a second trainer this year. Chad has mentored our new trainer as well as taking on some of the sports med class students during athletic events. He allows them to do specific things, which he oversees, which gives them a fantastic hands-on experience.
Chad attends meetings and seminars to learn advanced techniques and works with Atrium Health Floyd and the doctors directly.
Chad works in the community. He has three young sons, so he gives of his limited time to coaching their sports teams and providing advice to young parents on how higher level athletics truly works.

Nominated by
Chris Boden from Rome High School
E: [email protected] | W: 2312504028 | P: 2312504028

Chris Blaser is hands down the best AT I have worked with in 12 years as an athletic director. In his time at Northridge, he has developed a tremendous working relationship with the coaches, athletes and many parents. He is also a tremendous resource for future AT’s where he is always willing to mentor students from the local college meet their requirements. He also has picked up another high school this fall because of the shortage in AT’s in the area. Chris Blaser is more than deserving of such a recognition and thanks to School Health for taking the time to recognize such impactful professionals in this industry.

Nominated by
Jeff Collins from Northridge High School
E: [email protected] | W: 9705970366 | P: 9705970366

Marin Health Center for Integrative Health and Wellness
Supervisor Athletic Training; Athletic Training Coordinator for Secondary Schools in Marin County.

“Before the pandemic, the great work that Kit did with students and Athletic Departments at schools in Marin County would make her a front runner for this award. Pre-COVID, she brought a wonderful mix of professional expertise and authentic personal care to each and every student she comes across, whether she was tending to their injuries or sitting with them at the end of the bench. As we’ve all tried to navigate through the unfamiliar and ever-changing landscape that this virus has created, Kit has truly earned the honor of being named our Most Valuable Athletic Trainer. She has worked tirelessly for months on end to coordinate the efforts and expertise of athletic trainers throughout the county, along with officials from Marin County Health and the Marin County Office of Education. Her efforts have helped create order in the midst of chaos, and helped design a safe and healthy pathway for athletes to practice, workout, and simply enjoy time with their peers, teammates and coaches on and off the playing fields for the entire county. We owe her a debt of gratitude, and she has certainly earned our vote for the MVAT Award.”

“Having known Kit professionally for the last six years, I have found her to be not only exceptional in the daily tasks of an AT but one who connects with the student-athlete on a personal level. Kit’s commitment, implementation, development and willingness to work with others while leading in the development of our COVID-19 protocol in high school sports has made it a pleasure to work with her on the Marin Athletic Trainers task force. Without hesitation, I recommend Kit for the most valuable athletic trainer award.”

“Kit Holsten embodies all four criteria outlined for this award. She is an incredible asset on every sideline and has the innate ability to form positive relationships with each team she encounters. We are so lucky to have her on our staff!”

“Kit has taken the opportunity to work with the hospital administration to showcase the skill set of the athletic trainers in the athletic training program by working with different departments during this pandemic to help where needed. Also she has been working with local, county and state health officials to help return athletics to schools safely and properly.”

Nominated by
Amanda Boivin from The Branson School
E: [email protected] | W: (415) 455-7209 | P: (707) 481-0978

Took CTX sports medicine from the bottom to the top.

Nominated by
Collin Gentry from Concordia University of Texas
E: [email protected] | W: 4057560612 | P: 4057560612

Courtney Eargle has been the Certified Athletic Trainer at HBHS for 11 years. In that time she has completed her Masters degree in Athletic Training. She is the veteran ATC in our school district and interviews and hires the ATC’s in our district. She has established an amazing Sports Medicine internship program at our school and currently teaches the Sports Medicine class at HBHS. She attends every home sporting event at our school and travels to the away football games. She has an amazing rapport with our coaching staff and students. She conducts our annual Sport Physical night where we see over 500 student athletes to get their athletic physicals for the following school year. Her positive attitude and care for our athletes is second to none. We are extremely fortunate to have Courtney as our Athletic Trainer.

Nominated by
Melissa Vandenbosch from Huntington Beach High School
E: [email protected] | W: 7414-536-2514 | P: 562-682-0026

Courtney excels in all aspects of the criteria for this award! She has been a dedicated trainer for Selah High School for over 7 years and has won the admiration of every athlete she has treated from volleyball, football to helping our soccer team reach the state competitions. Courtney is also deeply rooted in Selah from attending church right along the athletes she serves. She has also done a great job fostering a deep partnership with our local fire department, her and her sports medicine classes are always helping out in training for the department as well as learning from the EMT’s and Firefighters how to correctly be a first responder from taking vitals, spine boarding, and placements of c collars. As I wrap this up, In my roll as District Athletic Event Coordinator I work hand in hand with Courtney and she is always the first person at the facility for games or matches getting ready for the day she always helps get my things set up if I am running behind. She is also one of the best people to collaborate with, we are always in meeting trouble shooting and working ideas off of each other and making sure we have it covered from all ends!

Nominated by
Chris Harris from Selah School District
E: [email protected] | W: 509-698-8053 | P: 509-949-9776

I have had the distinct pleasure of witnessing Crystal excel in a multitude of capacities at the Episcopal School of Dallas over the last 6 years. During our time together, Crystal has been an active member of our athletic department, leading our sports medicine program and providing great mentorship and instruction to the student-athletes under her supervision. Her devoted leadership in supporting our entire program has been instrumental in our success. These experiences, along with her vision, versatility and loyalty are qualities that are needed and desired in order to achieve the expectations of this important role at the interscholastic level. Crystal has all the necessary tools to be successful and will take the initiative to see that she achieves her goals and those she serves. This, combined with her passion and an enthusiasm that is second to none, separates her from her counterparts.

Nominated by
Dan Gill from Episcopal School of Dallas
E: [email protected] | W: 2143535810 | P:

Dan has been the Head Athletic Trainer at Union for the past 20 years. As we celebrate his commitment and dedication to serving our high school student-athletes for over 2 decades, it gives us a moment to appreciate his outstanding leadership in his profession.

Dan sets the standard for certified athletic trainers who make outstanding contributions in athletic care at the secondary school athletic training level. Dan is extremely active in his state association, the OATA, as well as being on the forefront of best practices or new legislation that may affect how student-athletes should be evaluated and treated. Dan currently oversees the operation of an athletic training clinic that has 2 staff Athletic Trainers and 15 student athletic training aides. Dan and his staff service over 1500 student-athletes and 25 sports. In addition, Dan coordinates a sports medicine team including the team physician, orthopedist, physical therapists, neurologists, and several other area specialists.

Other areas that Dan is responsible for or oversees are listed below:

• Provided healthcare, evaluation, treatment of all injuries; other duties include practice and game coverage a both home and away events.
• Maintain the athletic training department budget of $20,000 to $25,000 along with yearly discretionary bond monies.
• Approved Clinical Instructor for the University of Tulsa and Oklahoma State University Entry Level Masters Athletic Training Programs.
• Provide injury care and prevention education to all coaching staff
• Co-developed policy and procedures for Athletic department including concussion management, heat illness, lightening safety, MRSA prevention and management.
• Coordinate yearly pre-participation physicals for the school district for 500 – 600 student-athletes each spring semester
• Experience with injury tracking software
• Implementation of ImPACT® concussion testing software and coordinated baseline
testing
• Coordinate appropriate prevention strengthening and conditioning programs with director
of strength and conditioning
• Coordinated comprehensive cardiac screens for student-athletes
• Manages a student-athlete online paperwork system for over 1500 student-athletes

Dan was instrumental in the development of the heat safety and lightening safety protocols for
Union Public Schools as well as raising awareness of the importance of “Return to Learn”
procedures when dealing with concussions. Likewise, Dan created a Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Information Sheet for every parent or guardian of a Union student-athlete so that they are aware
of the dangers of Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Dan has been gracious to share any of the documents
that he has created with our high school governing body, the Oklahoma Secondary School
Activities Association (OSSAA), as well as any athletic directors or athletic trainers when
needed.

Dan also has created and maintained the Emergency Action Plans for the Union Athletic
Department which helps us (coaches, administrators, school personnel) cope with the indirect, as
well as the direct physical effects of any disaster or emergency that occurs within our district.
The EAPs specifically provide a guideline for each of our athletic venues and what plan to
follow in case of the need to evacuate due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Included in the EAPs are the purpose, assumptions, and goals of the action plan as well as the
medical emergency action plan that lists important telephone numbers of emergency personnel as
well as location information for treatment centers. It also give instructions on who will be the
leader in a crisis management situation and what everyone else’s role will be.

In 2014, under the direction of Dan’s leadership, Union Public Schools was honored as National
Athletic Trainers’ Association 1st Team Safe Sports School for leadership in following
established health care safety guidelines, utilizing, and maintaining proper equipment, and
providing appropriate medical personnel for student athletes. At that time, Union Public
Schools, under the direction of Dan, was one of the first, if not the very first, Oklahoma school to
receive this recognition. Union has consecutively been recognized as a 1st Team Safe Sports School honoree from 2014 to the present time.

Dan’s outstanding service and leadership to the profession are evident in his past involvement on the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Secondary Schools Athletic Trainer Committee as well as the NATA- State Association Advisory Committee. In addition to his commitment on the national level, Dan has served on the OSSAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee as well as was the Oklahoma Athletic Trainer’s Association President for 2 years. Dan was also a member of the Mid-America Athletic Trainers’ Association (MAATA) D-5 Board of Directors and Finance Committee.

Dan has been an integral part of the Oklahoma Athletic Director annual conference. As a leader in his industry, Dan has been invited to present various topics relative to sports medicine as it pertains to best practices for Oklahoma high school ADs who either have access to athletic training services or do not due to financial strains. Dan has been able to connect our state’s athletic directors with resources that they might have otherwise not known about. Dan is generous with his time and talents and is honored to share his knowledge with those in need.

Dan is also credited with saving a young man’s life on September 29, 2017. After sustaining an
undetected traumatic brain injury, a student-athlete collapsed in the athletic training room where
Dan utilized his training to coordinate time-sensitive medical treatment for the athlete, which
ultimately led to saving his life. Coaches, athletes, parents and medical doctors have praised
Dan for the work he did that night as well as every day at Union High School.

Nominated by
Emily Barkley from Union Public Schools
E: [email protected] | W: 9188144060 | P:

Dr. Debra Welsh, retired elementary teacher of 35 years and current Athletic Trainer of 23 years, is worthy of this recognition, because she goes above and beyond in all aspects as an Athletic Trainer. It is truly an honor to nominate Dr. Debra Welsh for this prestigious award. I have been able to work with Deb the past 7 several years as the MS/HS Principal, as a parent, and now as the Superintendent. During this time, I have witnessed first hand how she has made a significant impact on our students and our school. It was obvious to me that she has the unique ability to create and foster positive relationships with everyone in which she comes in contact with. Because of her knowledge and experienced background, she was able to quickly build trust with students, faculty, and staff. People who meet Deb realize that she is very knowledgeable and wants others to see her joy in seeing others become successful in athletics.
Not only does she care about the students/athletes here at McConnellsburg MS/HS, but she also works as a trainer outside of our district. She is the athletic trainer at a private school and has worked with teams at the collegiate level. Recently, she traveled to South Africa to work with a US team as their Athletic Trainer. With her experiences, Nationally and Internationally, I would think it would be hard to find someone more dedicated to this field. Deb continually takes courses and seminars to keep current with the latest and greatest techniques for improving her craft.
Even with the necessary/required coursework and ongoing training, there are desirable personal qualities and attributes that Deb possesses that puts her above others: decisiveness, trustworthiness, dependability, and adaptability. These are qualities that cannot be taught. She also has excellent communication skills and follow through with parents and families when she is working with their athlete. She comes early, stays late, and even comes in on weekends to ensure our athletes are at 100% when they step onto that field or court. Deb always puts others first which is why her services are requested at all levels of play. With 23 years of experience as an Athletic Trainer, Deb has earned the utmost respect of our staff, coaches, and athletes. Because of this, I would highly recommend Dr. Debra Welsh for “The Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award.”

Nominated by
Dr. Debra Welsh from McConnellsburg MS/HS School
E: [email protected] | W: 717-262-8508 | P: 717-262-8508

Dr. Debra Welsh, retired elementary teacher of 35 years and current Athletic Trainer of 23 years, is worthy of this recognition, because she goes above and beyond in all aspects as an Athletic Trainer. It is truly an honor to nominate Dr. Debra Welsh for this prestigious award. I have been able to work with Deb the past 7 several years as the MS/HS Principal, as a parent, and now as the Superintendent. During this time, I have witnessed first hand how she has made a significant impact on our students and our school. It was obvious to me that she has the unique ability to create and foster positive relationships with everyone in which she comes in contact with. Because of her knowledge and experienced background, she was able to quickly build trust with students, faculty, and staff. People who meet Deb realize that she is very knowledgeable and wants others to see her joy in seeing others become successful in athletics.
Not only does she care about the students/athletes here at McConnellsburg MS/HS, but she also works as a trainer outside of our district. She is the athletic trainer at a private school and has worked with teams at the collegiate level. Recently, she traveled to South Africa to work with a US team as their Athletic Trainer. With her experiences, Nationally and Internationally, I would think it would be hard to find someone more dedicated to this field. Deb continually takes courses and seminars to keep current with the latest and greatest techniques for improving her craft.
Even with the necessary/required coursework and ongoing training, there are desirable personal qualities and attributes that Deb possesses that puts her above others: decisiveness, trustworthiness, dependability, and adaptability. These are qualities that cannot be taught. She also has excellent communication skills and follow through with parents and families when she is working with their athlete. She comes early, stays late, and even comes in on weekends to ensure our athletes are at 100% when they step onto that field or court. Deb always puts others first which is why her services are requested at all levels of play. With 23 years of experience as an Athletic Trainer, Deb has earned the utmost respect of our staff, coaches, and athletes. Because of this, I would highly recommend Dr. Debra Welsh for “The Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award.”

Nominated by
Dr. Christina Ramsey from Central Fulton School District
E: [email protected] | W: 717485-7000 | P: 717-860-5971

Del Nance has been the head trainer at Castle High School for the last 16 years. He spends countless hours and goes above and beyond making sure that our nearly 600 student-athletes are safe and healthy each year. During his time at Castle High School, he has had close to 50 college students under his supervision as they worked towards their degrees in Athletic Training and also mentors trainers at other local high schools. Not only does he take care of student-athletes at Castle High School, but he also steps up anytime a trainer is needed for other events in the community. Because of his selflessness, I feel that Del Nance would be a very deserving winner of the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award.

Nominated by
Brandon Taylor from Castle High School
E: [email protected] | W: 812-853-3331 | P: 812-483-9214

Ed is a key part of St. Anthony’s athletics overseeing over 21 sports with multiple levels of play.
His countless hours of service include hosting a summer agility camp to help students understand how proper training keeps them physically healthy. He started the Friar athletic Training club to introduce students to the world of physical therapy and athletic training. They are live on the scene at games, training room events, and very hands-on for game day prep, day to day clinic set up, learning basic wrapping, and other beginner athletic training activities. Those are two aspects of how he continues to help the industry grow by introducing the younger generation to the field.

His services to the community goes beyond training allowing international students to stay at his residence during the school year for over the past seven years.

Ed’s knowledge of the health field also elevated him to have the honor of being SA COVID Coordinator and overseeing all the changes the school had to follow each week. He set up testing for all school staff and athletic teams in order to be in compliance to play and work. From 2019-2021 he set up parameters in order for SA students to have as close to normal school year as they could. Allowing for over 1900 students to be in the building during COVID.
Ed commitment to all these events comes from over 17 years of dedication to his field and to St. Anthony’s

Nominated by
Sharon Scubla from St. Anthony’s High School
E: [email protected] | W: 6312712121 | P: 6313395225

Ed is a key part of St. Anthony’s athletics ,overseeing over 21 sports with multiple levels of play, for the last 12 years.
His countless hours of service not only include attending all home and away football games, but also covering all home games for the remaining sports. This often requires coordination of multiple people. Ed also hosts a summer camp called VAST to help students understand how proper training keeps them physically healthy.
He also volunteers his time at school activities outside of athletics. He has been at events such as graduation, chorus concerts and school open house. He also helps students and families navigate obstacles along the way or even just provides rest areas and hydration. He volunteers his time at the special needs athletic camp offered at the school, giving children with physical limitations the opportunity to compete in sports that they may not be able to otherwise.
He started the Friar athletic Training club to introduce students to the world of physical therapy and athletic training. These children are given the opportunity to be on scene at games, training room events, and very hands-on for game day prep, day to day clinic set up, learning basic wrapping, and other beginner athletic training activities.
Ed forms bonds with the athletes and works with them to achieve their optimum performance both physically and mentally. The athletes often come to him before practices , games or even just big tests to get an “Ed talk”. From this, the students took the initiative to make a shirt to honor him. This shirt says “Ed in your head” on the back as his words help them to refocus and achieve their goals.

Ed has hosted international students in his home for the last seven years, giving them the opportunity to receive a world class education and submerging them in a new culture. He provides them not only with basic necessities but also with love and support, taking them with him to family gathering and truly treating them like his own children.

Ed’s knowledge of the health field and commitment to continuing education awarded him the position of SA COVID Coordinator and overseeing all the changes the school had to follow each week. He was tasked with weekly testing of the employees and creating protocols that allowed students to remain in school during this challenging time.
Ed has proven to be an excellent educator and communicator. Working in collaboration with the on-site physical therapy office and the school nurses office to provide the students of St. Anthony’s with the best care possible. This is evidenced by his willingness to meet with the nurse prior to athletic summer camps and discuss the students’ preexisting medical conditions ,such as diabetes, in order to truly understand each student and their individual needs.

The faculty, staff and students of St Anthony’s High School are fortunate to have Ed as our Athletic Trainer. As a nurse at St Anthony’s High School I can personally say that working with Ed has been a blessing. He always makes himself available when I have a question in regards to an athlete and their injury. He works in collaboration with me to provide these students with the best care possible initiating plans of care that incorporate both the athletic trainers goals and the nursing staffs goals. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition than Mr Edward Modica.

Nominated by
Margaret Nuccio from St Anthony’s High School
E: [email protected] | W: 6312712020 | P: 6319029368

Ed is a key part of St. Anthony’s athletics ,overseeing over 21 sports with multiple levels of play, for the last 12 years.
His countless hours of service not only include attending all home and away football games, but also covering all home games for the remaining sports. This often requires coordination of multiple people. Ed also hosts a summer camp called VAST to help students understand how proper training keeps them physically healthy.
He also volunteers his time at school activities outside of athletics. He has been at events such as graduation, chorus concerts and school open house. He also helps students and families navigate obstacles along the way or even just provides rest areas and hydration. He volunteers his time at the special needs athletic camp offered at the school, giving children with physical limitations the opportunity to compete in sports that they may not be able to otherwise.
He started the Friar athletic Training club to introduce students to the world of physical therapy and athletic training. These children are given the opportunity to be on scene at games, training room events, and very hands-on for game day prep, day to day clinic set up, learning basic wrapping, and other beginner athletic training activities.
Ed forms bonds with the athletes and works with them to achieve their optimum performance both physically and mentally. The athletes often come to him before practices , games or even just big tests to get an “Ed talk”. From this, the students took the initiative to make a shirt to honor him. This shirt says “Ed in your head” on the back as his words help them to refocus and achieve their goals.

Ed has hosted international students in his home for the last seven years, giving them the opportunity to receive a world class education and submerging them in a new culture. He provides them not only with basic necessities but also with love and support, taking them with him to family gathering and truly treating them like his own children.

Ed’s knowledge of the health field and commitment to continuing education awarded him the position of SA COVID Coordinator and overseeing all the changes the school had to follow each week. He was tasked with weekly testing of the employees and creating protocols that allowed students to remain in school during this challenging time.
Ed has proven to be an excellent educator and communicator. Working in collaboration with the on-site physical therapy office and the school nurses office to provide the students of St. Anthony’s with the best care possible. This is evidenced by his willingness to meet with the nurse prior to athletic summer camps and discuss the students’ preexisting medical conditions ,such as diabetes, in order to truly understand each student and their individual needs.

The faculty, staff and students of St Anthony’s High School are fortunate to have Ed as our Athletic Trainer. As a nurse at St Anthony’s High School I can personally say that working with Ed has been a blessing. He always makes himself available when I have a question in regards to an athlete and their injury. He works in collaboration with me to provide these students with the best care possible initiating plans of care that incorporate both the athletic trainers goals and the nursing staffs goals. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition than Mr Edward Modica.

Nominated by
Margaret Nuccio from St Anthony’s High School
E: [email protected] | W: 6312712020 | P: 6319029368

Liz Knight is the head athletic trainer at Meredith College. She has been in this role for the past two years and she has earned the upmost respect from our student-athletes and coaching staff. She genuinely cares for our athletes and has a great relationship with the coaches, always doing her best to keep athletes in the game, or to return to play as soon as humanly possible when injured.

This semester our assistant athletic trainer resigned in August and left her in a tough position serving all 160 athletes by herself. Despite immediate posting of the position, the timing was not good and the search failed. Thus, Liz was forced to take on many additional hours outside the normal scope of her work as the head trainer. When available, we did contract out folks to assist with game coverage, but she basically single handedly provided coverage for as many practices as possible. She definitely fits the meaning of the phrase “going above and beyond.”

During athletic trainer recognition week, she started a fund raiser at local restaurants to raise funds to support the sports medicine program at Meredith. She offers additional clinics for our athletes to help with rehabilitation and knowledge of how to care for physical athletic injuries as well as mental health awareness. She also always avails herself to anyone in the Meredith community that might need some assistance with medical issues, volunteering to provide help when asked.

During her time as our head athletic trainer, she has been a tremendous mentor to our assistant athletic trainer and any interns we hire. Our program has been, and is currently, a site for students pursuing training hours required for certification at the local colleges and universities. She fully supports her profession and goes out of her way to help those who want to work in the field.

I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this year’s Most Valuable Athletic Award. Thank you in advance for your consideration of her nomination.

Sincerely,
Jackie Myers
Athletic Director
Meredith College

Nominated by
Jackie Myers from Meredith College
E: [email protected] | W: 9196065787 | P: 9196065787

Emily builds relationships with her athletes and families going while going through the process. She is umbrella insurance for any school that she works for. Emily is very knowledgeable, calm under pressure, and very personable. Emily is reassuring to the athletes as well as the coaches.

Nominated by
Dan Hutchings from Coal City High School
E: [email protected] | W: 815-634-2396 x1713 | P: 815-651-1608

I want to Nominate my Wife and Myself (nomination submission to follow for myself and will have the same text below). We are both Athletic Trainers and work at the same school. We have without a doubt earned the respect of the staff students and the community through our hard work ethic and commitment to our students. Going beyond their job descriptions is something most Athletic Trainers do but we do this by making sure our athletes are taken care of through all aspects of their treatment course. We have driven athletes to appointments over a hour away and made phone calls on behalf of families. We have challenges our students from the moment we arrived by re-vamping the educational requirements and expectations we hold them to. We have had multiple students change their course in life to pursue Athletic training including some student athletes who “were inspired by how fun and exciting we make the job look”. In regards to advancing Athletic Training we are constantly educating our Admin, coaches and community on the benefits of Athletic Trainers and what we provide and do for our kids. For our community we are a big sports town and with that comes a lot of events and practices that happen on our facilities. We will help with and first aid or care for the kids and help parents decide what the best plan of care is for them.

Nominated by
Michael Sansing from Seminole ISD
E: [email protected] | W: 8062172050 | P:

Coach Swindler has taken an Athletic Training department at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic HS that had 5 head trainers in one year and stabilized that department and made it into one of the best in the state. She gained instant respect from the administration, faculty, staff, parents and students-athletes due to her professionalism, work ethic, and caring personality. She goes beyond the call of duty by painting, organizing and cleaning our weight room over spring break – by coaching softball and by developing and mentoring a student trainer program. She is constantly learning and promoting her profession. During the recent storms in Florida – she and her husband took their own boat into flooded areas in a rescue mission. She is what our Bishop mission statement is all about.

Nominated by
Jay Bowen from Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School
E: [email protected] | W: 727-857-2600 | P: 931-538-0447

She uses countless hours above and beyond her duty to ensure all our athletes are healthy and ready to compete. She has assisted young athletic trainers in growing and assisting them in finding jobs of their own. She is a vital part of our athletic program

Nominated by
Bruce Robinette from Roane County High
E: [email protected] | W: 18653766534 | P:

Erin Asteghene provides tremendous care not only for our athletes, but for the faculty as well. She is our only ATC and has to juggle covering all sports at multiple locations. She is always willing to come early or stay late as needed. She’s done this at Paideia for the last 22 years. She’s done this while also raising her two kids.
Erin provides a great service to our community. She mentors student trainers who work with her at various times of the year.
She’s a very loyal and dedicated member of our staff. We would suffer greatly without her.

Nominated by
Mike Emery from The PAideia School
E: [email protected] | W: 404-270-2663 | P: 678-910-7112

To Whom it May Concern,
Frank Parker has been the Head Athletic Trainer at Calhoun ISD for over 20 years. To say that his expertise in training was at a premium , this doesn’t even start to describe the experience and knowledge that Frank Parker has as an Athletic Trainer. He is a true professional in all areas of his job. The kids absolutely love him, the parents completely trust him, and the coaches cannot do with him. He makes everybody’s life a whole lot better with him being involved. I laugh with him all the time that he deserves the title Assistant Athletic Director because of have much I rely on him. He knows everyone in the community, he knows all the businesses in town, and knows the process and way to do anything associated with our great school district.
But more than all of his knowledge and experience , is what Frank does for our school District and community. Many years ago he started selling pink T-Shirts for cancer awareness for one of the Varsity Home Football Games. He goes out to our community and gets sponsors for the shirt, then he sells for about two weeks prior to a designated game. Our community has a large pink fire truck that will roll up to the school one day, and Frank Parker will have an awesome presentation to someone in our school district or community that is battling cancer. All the money raised from his Pink T-Shirt sell will be donated to these individuals. Our community has shown tremendous support behind Frank’s cancer fundraiser for years. This just shows the type of person that Frank Parker is and that he is definitely someone that goes above and beyond his training duties to help others. Frank also has recently been diagnosed with stage 1 pancreatic cancer himself. Our coaching family and school district will all be behind Frank in his fight against this horrible disease.
Frank also over the years has had many student trainers go on to college and pursue athletic Training. Many of these students have received assistance because of the Student Training Program. Frank Parker is one of a kind and is most deserving of an award like Trainer of the Year.

Sincerely,
Richard Whitaker
Athletic Director – Head Football Calhoun ISD

Nominated by
Richard Whitaker from Calhoun County ISD
E: [email protected] | W: 361-551-2696 | P: 361-920-1354

Gabby Beijer has been employed as our ATC since September of 2022. She currently is in care of 479 student athletes at our High School and Middle School here at Winnisquam Regional School District. During her short term here she has gone over and above her performance expectations. Students, parents and coaches have been impressed and appreciative of her attention to detail, communication and overall approach to the care of our student athletes in her care. She has been a strong advocate for positive change and the advancement of care for student athletes through the advocacy of a better space and equipment for treatment. So much so, we have added an inhouse rehabilitation service period for some of our student athletes, saving families the cost of services at rehab facilities. Abby is no stranger to a long work day often stay well after athletic practices and games are finished to do follow up phone calls with parents or to speak with coaches, the school nurse or myself about athletes in her care. She has worked diligently with our newly acquired athletic management system to update past and record new student athlete medical records, injury reports, concussion screening and physicals. This has been no small undertaking but she has taken on this challenge as she does with most that she faces, with a smile and professionalism. Due to her due diligence our athletic management system is currently up to date and we are better able to monitor our student athletes wellness over the long term while being able to treat them with knowledge of prior injuries. Should you wish to speak to me directly about Abby and her impact here at WRSD please feel free to call me at 603-286-4531 x1217. Respectfully, John Larsen, Director of Athletics

Nominated by
John Larsen from Winnisquam Regional School District
E: [email protected] | W: 6032864531 x1217 | P: 603-361-6212

Geoff Davis is the embodiment of service to our college and our student-athletes as well as a testament to the field of athletic training. He has been the athletic trainer at Moraine Valley since 1993, and everyone who has met him, worked with him, been treated by him or just been in his presence sings his praises.

Davis prepares the courts and fields for home games, manages the equipment, monitors the uniforms and takes care of all teams on campus. He even went to the hospital in spring 2021 to stay with an opposing softball player who was seriously injured during a home game. He stayed overnight to make sure she was okay (she was). He’s even had to step up to sing the national anthem before a basketball game when the recording malfunctioned on more than one occasion. In 2007 and 2008, he was a volunteer trainer for the Chicago Soldiers American Basketball Association. He also was a volunteer trainer for the Oak Forest/River Forest youth football league from 2008 to 2010.

His honors include the Moraine Valley Nancy Blane Guerra Service Award in 2016 for his dedication and extra hours he put in without complaints for the student-athletes. He also was inducted into both the NJCAA Region IV and Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference halls of fame in 2014.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Davis was still working on campus, taking the temperature of every player and coach who was on campus for practice or before they headed out to games/matches/meets. He made sure they filled out the health forms required to compete and that there was hand sanitizer and masks readily available. While most Moraine Valley employees were working remotely during that time, Davis rarely spent many days away from campus. He made sure the student-athletes could practice and compete safely when the college allowed it during this time.

Davis has been involved in the National Athletic Trainers Association, and given talks to other trainers. Area colleges, such as Lewis University and Northern Illinois University, often send students in athletic training programs who need hours to work with and learn from Davis because of his depth of knowledge and experience.

Moraine Valley has produced several short videos with Davis talking about work as an athletic trainer, helpful tips for reducing injury and advice for young student-athletes. Some of those videos have been used during National Athletic Training Month over the last few years to encourage those in the field.

Even if there are other students playing basketball on the college courts or staff who suffer an injury working out in the gym, if they know Davis, even as an acquaintance, they all feel comfortable enough to ask for his health advice or to examine an injury. Davis helps anyone and everyone in need because that’s the kind of person he is.

Davis is so well liked and admired by current students and staff as well as alumni, coaches, trainers and staff from other colleges and organizations. Anything that the Athletics Department posts on its social media pages (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) involving Davis is followed by a barrage of glowing comments on how great a trainer he is, how helpful he was listening to their woes, how well he treated their aches and pains or just how fun he is to be around. Even if it’s from 20 years ago, they still remember his care and kindness, which is a tribute to the quality of his work. His nominator is a Moraine Valley softball alumna, who fondly remembers the attentiveness, kindness and humor of Davis as trainer in the late 1990s.

If anyone goes above and far beyond their job description, it’s Geoff Davis. He’s kind and helpful to everyone he encounters, and is especially attentive to the students in his training room and out on the field/court/course. Whether they need an attentive ear, a wrapped wrist, a new uniform or a joke, Davis is there.

Nominated by
Maura Vizza from Moraine Valley Community College
E: [email protected] | W: 7089745742 | P:

Gina is amazing with my daughter
Emma plays three sports Volleyball, Indoor and Outdoor Track (Throws) and uses her shoulder a LOT
Gina is always there with the right decision to either rest, ice, specific exercises to allow her play her best more often!
Absolutely an amazing asset

Nominated by
Doug Reaves from Westminster High Maryland
E: [email protected] | W: 4436767870 | P: 4436767870

Gina’s love for her job shines through the top notch care she gives our kids/athletes.. She is the face of Westminster High Schools Athletic department.. Gina continues to go above and beyond on a daily basis making sure each and every athlete is healthy and able to give a 100 % on the field or on the court.. We truly appreciate Gina and all that she does for the athletes At Westminster High School.. I couldn’t think of a more deserving person for the Athletic Trainer Award!!

Nominated by
Sara Flinkman from Westminster High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4104094283 | P: 4104094283

Gina has made an immense impact on the students and staff at Westminster High School. I am the Head Volleyball Coach and just finished my first season at Westminster. The previous coaching staff left in a traumatic way, and Gina was there to support the team through it. Gina goes above and beyond taping wrists and ankles, monitoring return to play, and teaching athletes how to stretch. She knows every player on every sport by name. She watches practices every day. She genuinely cares about every member of our athletics programs. Several members of my program are interested in becomming ATs or PTs and Gina has made a huge impact on their learning. She helps the girls study, discusses their internships and projects, and shows them how she does aspects of her job. When I first arrived to Westminster, Gina greeted me and showed me around. She became a great resources for my program – she implemented a pre-practice dynamic stretch routine to better support our girls and prevent injury. She got to know each one of us, and even spent some time letting the girls teach her volleyball skills and play with us. She sat on the bench and supported us at home games and through our playoff run – home or away. She is easy to talk with and her open arms makes a huge impact on our student athletes, who love and value her opinion, advice, and direction. Westminster would not be as great as it is without Gina!

Nominated by
Serra Jarboe from Westminster High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4107513630 | P:

Gina is very attentive to each student athlete as well as coaches! Gina rushed to help me when I injured myself in a preseason practice with my JV girls soccer team. She was quick to preform necessary testing and get me emergency care and follow up appointments. Gina checks in on all of her athletes (including coaches) when an injury has occurred. This was my first year coaching and I could not have done it without her.

Gina has made it a point to always go above and beyond and make her athletes, parents, and coaches feel like they are her most important patient at the time. She creates a fun environment in which all can learn about injury prevention and treatment.

Nominated by
Erika Zawistowski from Westminster High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4435363989 | P:

Gina is very attentive to each student athlete as well as coaches! Gina rushed to help me when I injured myself in a preseason practice with my JV girls soccer team. She was quick to preform necessary testing and get me emergency care and follow up appointments. Gina checks in on all of her athletes (including coaches) when an injury has occurred. This was my first year coaching and I could not have done it without her.

Gina has made it a point to always go above and beyond and make her athletes, parents, and coaches feel like they are her most important patient at the time. She creates a fun environment in which all can learn about injury prevention and treatment.

Nominated by
Erika Zawistowski from Westminster High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4435363989 | P:

Gina always goes above and beyond to care for our athletes and is an expert in her field. Find me a better Athletic Trainer…and I’ll but ’em dinner!

Nominated by
Terry Molloy from Westminster HS
E: [email protected] | W: 410-751-3637 | P: 443-375-7599

Gina is amazing
I accidentally put the wrong Gina before. I meant this one

Nominated by
Doug Reaves from Westminster High
E: [email protected] | W: 4436767870 | P: 4436767870

Gina consistently goes above and beyond the normal call of duty. She’s stays late and shows up early to tend to kids who need her help both physically or emotionally. She works with kids that are at the student tech center in the AT program and shows them what it’s like to be a AT at the high school level. As a football coach there is no other trainer I would rather have at my school.

Nominated by
Chris Lang from Westminster High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4439740996 | P: 4439740996

Gina is always willing to go above and beyond for the students. She puts in a lot of extra hours to make sure that everyone is safe and protected. She is one of the best.

Nominated by
Mark Gogol from Westminster high school
E: [email protected] | W: 4103745886 | P:

Gini has been with Smithville School District as our Athletic Trainer since 2015. She has developed a great rapport with our employees, coaching staff, student athletes as well as other schools trainers.

Gini always ensures coverage of each sporting event. She is always present and ensures that EMS and a Sports Medicine Physician is readily available when needed.

Gini routinely goes above and beyond her contracted agreement to make certain all of our students are healthy and safe to participate. She has worked in leadership roles in Community Outreach Programs.

Gini works at Park University to educate and train future Athletic Trainers.

Gini is always looking at ways to improve the Athletic Training Services. She sits on the MSHSAA Advisory Board for Sports Medicine. Gini worked tirelessly during our pandemic to ensure policies and protocols were implemented and followed by our students and staff.

Nominated by
Darren Shaffer from Smithville High School
E: [email protected] | W: 8165320405 | P:

Gretchen takes the best care of our athletes here at the college and goes above and beyond her duties as an Athletic Trainer. Gretchen takes pictures at our games since we do not have a SID and she also helps our student-athletes with class advisement and getting registered for classes. Gretchen works in the community helping at baseball events and mentors the student-athletes that want to pursue a career in athletic training. She would make a terrific recipient of this award.

Nominated by
Greg Johnson from GateWay Community College
E: [email protected] | W: 6022868214 | P: 4802704929

Heather Arabitg has served Caldwell University student-athletes as their athletic trainer for ten years including five as the head athletic trainer and two as the athletic department’s Senior Woman Administrator. She was also recently promoted to Assistant Director of Athletics. During her tenure, the department has added seven sports and over 130 student-athletes. Her leadership has been instrumental in the development of additional athletic training space and organizational structure.

As head athletic trainer, Arabitg is responsible for the care of over 370 NCAA Division II student-athletes. Often described as a “mother hen,” she devotes the same attention and makes innumerable personal sacrifices as a mother would for her child. The student-athletes trust her in all ways, including as a medical provider and advisor.

Arabitg is self-less when it comes to her staff of four athletic trainers. She takes extra shifts and sacrifices time with her own family so she does not put a burden on her staff. She encourages her staff to seek extra education. In fact, a half her staff recently attended the Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association Convention while she stayed back to cover practices.

Arabitg has grown tremendously as a leader in the athletic department, expanding her influence well past the realm of athletic training. She oversees the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and has done a tremendous job empowering students to make a difference on our campus and in the community. Caldwell University was recently named a finalist for the 2023 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence for its Jared Box Project. This initiative, led by Arabitg and SAAC, is the assembly of small boxes of toys meant to entertain and put a smile on the faces of children staying in a local hospital. The group previously earned the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference’s Community Engagement Award for the same project.

Arabitg is also in the midst of planning for a large-scale event to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Title IX. She is planning an educational panel for our student-athletes that highlights powerful women and the role Title IX has played in their careers as well as a recognition ceremony for the top influential student-athletes, coaches, and administrators in the history of Caldwell University women’s sports.

During the pandemic, Arabitg was instrumental in the implementation of COVID-19 mitigation strategies for both the athletics department and the campus as a whole. She was an invaluable contributor on the Caldwell Return to Campus Task Force that sought to safely bring students back to campus for in-person learning.

In 2021, Arabitg was honored with the Mission in Action Award, which recognizes the extraordinary contributions and quality service of a University staff member and acknowledges their role in advancing the mission of Caldwell University.

Nominated by
Megan Bratkovich from Caldwell University
E: [email protected] | W: 973-618-3644 | P:

Helena has been at Lebanon HS for several years now. She has built a trusting and transparent culture with our coaches, athletes, and parents. As an Athletic Director, having a trainer of Helena’s professionalism, knowledge and communication skills removes so much stress and liability from often emotional situations.

When our district has major events, such as the district wrestling tournament, Helena is one of the trainers in our league that takes the lead on organizing coverage, and processes and making sure that all of the athletes receive the care they need and parent/coaches receive the necessary communication about the care of the athlete.

Helena’s dedication to our athletes and families is a testament to the pride she takes in her profession. She is available at all times to consult, advise or just listen. She not only provides top-notch care in the moment, but she also has the knowledge and ability to provide our athletes and families with rehab options that can save them a lot of money.

Lastly, it is Helena’s ability to develop relationships with people that qualify her most for this honor. Our community trusts her with our kids and as an AD, I have 100% confidence that all aspects of her job are taken care of and done so in a professional and quality fashion.

Nominated by
kraig Hoene from Lebanon HS
E: [email protected] | W: 5414518555 | P: 5414018257

Hide is a great Athletic Trainer, Leader and Mentor. He never stops learning and constantly teaches what he knows. He is the Head Athletic trainer at a D3 school with a football team and he has no assistant which we all know is a challenging situation to be in. Even with the challenges of the job and being so far away from his family in Japan, he brings the energy to the people around him. He’s even asked to give the pep talk in huddles. He is a promoter of championship hydration which helps the athletes realize how vital hydration is. Coming from the University of Houston he knows about championships!

Nominated by
Yvonnie Joseph from City College
E: [email protected] | W: 3475437429 | P:

Holli is the most deserving individual for this award. She is self-less in all that she does for Caldwell’s students and community. She is a shining example of what a team player looks like. She provides a safe place for our students that no one else provides and she does it while consistently teaching content about athletic training. She loves our students and she has made a visible impact in the lives of countless individuals. Holli came into CHS and transformed our process for paperwork, created a safe environment in the training room, created the schools Emergency Action Plan (EAP), helped to develop the return to school/play protocols for CHS and has grown interest in athletic training exponentially. Holli lobbied in Washington D.C. and in California for Athletic Trainers. She advocates for Athletic Training whenever possible. Holli paved the way for CHS to earn the NATA safe sports school award. She advocates for students by communicating with staff, parents and administration about student’s needs and accommodations needed while they recover from their injuries. Holli handles all the concussion testing for our nineteen sports programs. Holli reaches out to our community doctors at St. Luke’s to have a free physical night in the spring that all athletes at CHS can attend. Our community members do not have many resources, so this evening has become vital to many of our students being able to participate. If not for it, we would have much less buy in for our programs. In the process, this allows us to communicate with our community members about other needs for their children, such as paperwork and financial responsibilities. She is creating avenues of communication that have been much needed in our community. She has built relationships with Boise State University as she is now a preceptor, so we now have interns who are under her wing. While BSU benefits from this, our students see that they can have the same type of future if they push themselves to learn and ultimately they know they can rely on Holli for any help they might need in the future. Our students have never been safer than in her very capable hands. Holli gives of her personal time because it is who she is, not because she is asked. She communicates with our coaches and players about their needs and responsibilities to their health and follows up on a daily basis. Holli is nothing if not a leader. She leads by example every day. She puts others before herself and she helps others to see their incredible value. As an athletic director, I could not ask for a better peer. The first question she always asks is “What can I do to help you?” Holli’s day to day is a mountain and yet she puts others before herself. St. Luke’s and Les Schwab recognized Holli as a community hero at a Boise State University football game and as a “Sparkling Angel” for her work with helping a family in a car accident. She saw a need an took it upon herself to save a family who’s car had slid into a ditch during a car accident. The lives of those family members have been forever changed because of her willingness to step in and help. In the process, Holli brought about community interest in Athletic Training. Both our school and St. Luke’s used that as an opportunity to speak about the importance of Athletic Trainers in our community and the value they provide to our students, parents and patrons. The NATA is lucky to have someone like Holli advocating for them every day. She loves her job and it shows in her dedication to those around her and to the growth our athletic training program has seen because of her.

Nominated by
Jon Hallock from Caldwell High School
E: [email protected] | W: 208-455-3304 | P: 208-963-2214

Jamee has worked for the Omaha Public Schools district for almost 25 years. During that time she has been instrumental in implementing new safety standards and emergency action plans not just for her own school but for the entire district. She has taken on Student-Athletic Trainers from local universities and helps the new employees to the district with policies and procedures.
Jamee loves the students she works with and goes above and beyond her “office hours” when is comes to treating her athletes to get them back to competing.

Nominated by
Jarod Meysenburg from Omaha Westview High School
E: [email protected] | W: 531-299-7153 | P: 402-301-7525

Jamie Best has many strengths and we are lucky to have him here at Hillsdale. Jamie knows his craft exceptionally well. His people skills are equally outstanding. Jamie does an outstanding job for us. Jamie’s knowledge, experience, time commitment, reliability and quality of service are some of his strengths.

Nominated by
Jodi Long from Hillsdale High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4193688516 | P:

James has quickly become an invaluable part of our school. In fact, he is so valuable, we hired him to also teach PE! James works tirelessly to cover all of our sports, many times going from one sport to another at the same time by himself. When building a new athletic facility, James guided us in the design of the equipment needed to advance the level of care that our athletes require. Whenever a student is injured, James personally makes immediate contact with the parents and works with them to set up the necessary appointments and follow up for therapy. He goes above and beyond to take care of our student athletes every day. He sacrifices time with his family in order to take care of our students. The students absolutely LOVE him!

Nominated by
Mark Dunn from South Gibson County High School
E: [email protected] | W: 731-783-0999 | P:

Jamie Waterman has been the Athletic Trainer at Marin Catholic for over 20 years. In her time at MC she has been a part of countless practices and competitions for thousands of Student Athletes. She has spent an immeasurable amount of hours on the fields, courts, track, and pool decks helping athletes prep for events and recover from injuries. She has even been an integral part of several championships, including 2 team and 2 individual State Titles.

Being a Certified Athletic Trainer with over 20 years on the job, plus continuing education, Jamie is one of the most experienced athletic trainers in our area. As a result, she is often the one that new AT’s come to for advice, problem solving, and help. One of Jamie’s most amazing qualities is that she’s never too busy to help her fellow Athletic Trainers or student athletes at other schools. She will find a way to offer her assistance wherever she can, whether it is at a game on the sideline, covering for a colleague at another school, or consulting with the other AT, parent or student if they need help after an injury. Specifically, she was integral in creating dialogue between many schools in our area during a challenging time for everyone where COVID rules and regulations were ever changing and people were confused and scared. Thousands of students were able to play a sport, even if the seasons were abbreviated, as a direct result of her hard work. By developing and disseminating procedures that enabled return to play for every school and every sport in our league, Jamie Waterman was an unsung hero for athletics in Marin County in the spring of 2021.

This sense of community service goes beyond just her job as an Athletic Trainer. She has been volunteering with local organizations such as 4H and making meals for families in need for years.

Jamie has been a pioneer for student safety, having advocated for the State of California to require licensing for Athletic Trainers, and partnering with a neuropsychologist for over a decade to create one of the first comprehensive high school concussion testing programs in the nation. She was also asked to create, administer, and maintain the health and wellness policies for our entire school during the pandemic, which she did with no hesitation, but with plenty of grace. What Jamie has done for the students from an Athletic Trainer standpoint is incredible, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed by students, parents and her colleagues. Our athletes feel cared for, safe and prepared to compete. When asked, one of our athletes said, “I wouldn’t be a State Champion if it wasn’t for Jamie helping me recover and strengthen.”

Jamie’s job performance is unmatched and truly incredible, but that’s not what makes her stand out. She does far more than just put out water and tape injuries (though she does tape a heck of an ankle!). What makes Jamie standout is the role that she plays in the lives of her students outside of any practice or competition. She’s a confidant, a counselor, a cheerleader, a shoulder to cry on, a friend, and sometimes even a knucklehead wrangler. Jamie has her finger on the pulse of our school community and she is constantly ensuring that when kids need extra support, a check in with a counselor, or just need someone to talk to are cared for. Being at a multitude of athletic events puts her in a unique position to know and monitor things that teachers, counselors and even parents sometimes don’t see. When alumni come back to visit MC, usually their first stop is Jamie’s room because they remember her warmth, her smile, her encouragement, and her heart. I am lucky to experience that every day.

I am proud to nominate Jamie Waterman for Most Valuable Athletic Trainer, and I hope that I have shown you even a tiny glimpse of how amazing she is.

Nominated by
Lynn Maloney from Marin Catholic High School
E: [email protected] | W: 415-233-2032 | P:

Janelle Jones has been a trainer at Logan High School for the last 7 years.
She is not only an amazing trainer but also an extraordinary woman. Her work ethic is beyond the call of duty. She works an average of 40-60+ hours per week which includes almost every Saturday during the school year. She is a one woman wrecking force keeping 40+ high school teams and over 600 student athletes healthy and safe. This doesn’t include the numerous junior high athletes she tends to as needed. She covers everything from pre season football conditioning to every practice and game scheduled and then finishes it off with servicing all the post season tournament games our school host (which this fall alone was 15 OHSAA events) year.
Her communication with athletes, coaches, parents, administration and staff is remarkable, always keeping everyone involved and informed. Her rapport with the athletes is beyond words, always having the respect of each one she comes in contact with. Janelle is truly invested in her position and cares deeply for each and every student athlete providing them with the quality of care she sets her standards to. She is their biggest supporter and cheerleader and in some cases their best listener. Her door is always open providing a welcome environment for whoever needs her services or at times her caring and kind personality. We have tried for years to get additional help for her but are still working on making that happen. Even as her workload increases year after year, her performance and responsibilities never slack and she never complains. Janelle also serves as a preceptor for Ohio University athletic training students always welcoming them to observe and work alongside her giving them a great hands on experience. She stays on top of her field and training requirements attending professional development sessions as well as working closely with OhioHealth to stay current on any new or changing requirements. Janelle also works additional hours at a doctor’s office assisting OhioHealth when they are short handed.
She not only supports “Chieftain Nation” but gets involved in numerous community events and fundraisers. She is invested in our kids, teams, school and community.
We have had past trainers but none compare to Janelle. I don’t know what our school, teams and athletes would do without her. She is truly like no other trainer I have worked with.
Janelle is very worthy of this award.

Nominated by
Theresa Schultheiss from Logan High School
E: [email protected] | W: 7403852069 | P: 740-974-4374

I would like to take a moment to nominate JD Burgess for either the Athletic trainer of the year award.
JD has been a heavily involved athletic trainer in the state of Arizona, from opening schools and building programs, to working up north on the reservations, a contributing athletic trainer and preceptor with GCU and NAU. JD has been a voice within the Agua Fria High School District, a mentor to me as a young athletic trainer and was a huge contributor behind the scenes the past 2 years dealing with covid protocols in Arizona and taking backlash from the community. Making phone calls, and contributing to come up with a system that would work to ensure the health and safety for our athletes across the state.
All that aside, JD has been an athletic trainer in the state of Arizona for the last 20 years, making connections, helping young athletic trainers, and contributing to the profession on all levels.
I would hope that this nomination is considered and I think he would be extremely grateful to see all of his hard work recognized as he is much more worried about the profession and health and safety of athletes.

Nominated by
Jamal Bechri from Canyon View High School Arizona
E: [email protected] | W: 6239327600 | P:

My name is Tilmon Clark, I’m the Athletic Director at Delta High School in Muncie, Indiana. I’m nominating Jen Detweiler for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award!

Why? Because she is an absolute rock star as our Head Athletic Trainer! Jen constantly goes above and beyond to take care of our athletes in all 18 sports that we offer here at Delta High School! Not only does she earn the respect of the student-athletes but also the coaches and parents here at Delta High School. Trust is the key word that comes to mind when thinking of the relationship between Jen and her patients. Student-athletes and parents trust that Jen will give them the best care, rehabilitation and ability to return to action the quickest! Caring is another incredibly important attribute that Jen has. That trust is built on the fact that Jen cares for all of the student-athletes and wants them to be able to succeed; not only on the courts, fields and mats but also in life.

Jen also pays it forward for the Athletic Training profession. It’s not uncommon for Ball State University to send students to observe and complete clinicals with Jen. This type of commitment from Jen truly shows that she cares about her job and the future of the profession. One of the Ball State students said, “I couldn’t be more thankful for Jen, she allows me to be immersed in the job, which prepares me for my future career in Athletic Training.

Jen’s career in athletic training is very impressive; as she has been an athletic trainer at the college level prior to arriving at Delta High School. Jen is well known to help those in her community and not just “punch the time clock”, she has developed great relationships with community members, which often leads to phone calls asking for advice on what to do with a student-athlete in our community that has been injured. I witnessed this first hand, as a parent frantically came to the high school and asked Jen to evaluate his younger (non-high school) student-athlete. This parent echoed my words, “we are very lucky to have Jen Detweiler in our Delta Community!”

Thank you for considering this ROCK STAR of an Athletic Trainer for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award! I’m sure you have many excellent nominees, but Jen would be a very worthy recipient of this award!

Nominated by
Tilmon Clark from Delta Athletics
E: [email protected] | W: 7655461497 | P: 7655461497

Jena gives selflessly to our student athletes. She is mentoring a student now in the athletic training profession. She works with our softball players on her free time. She is always willing to do whatever it takes for our kids. She is a valuable addition to our school family.

Nominated by
Eric Crabtree from Cornersville High School
E: [email protected] | W: 9312464170 | P: 9316196157

Jenn Dorman has been at Harding Academy for three years and has quickly established herself as one of the best athletic trainers in Memphis. She routinely goes above and beyond the minimum of an athletic trainer. She is intentional and frequent with her communication with students, parents, and coaches. She focuses on both injury treatment and prevention. After treating an injury, she focuses on developing an individualized treatment plan to help the athlete return to action as quickly and fully as possible. In addition to her duties as a trainer, she has worked to improve our CPR certification rate, to increase the number of AEDs, and to develop Emergency Action Plans for our athletic facilities.

Outside of the world of health science, Jenn has established incredible relationships with our athletes. Rarely is the training room empty; there are almost always groups of students present, even if they aren’t being treated. They value her friendship and mentorship. She has also intentionally built relationships with the University of Memphis and has hosted 4 interns over her three years, to allow them to finish their clinical and practicals.

Jenn Dorman is the best athletic trainer I’ve ever been around, and Harding Academy is a better place for her work and her presence.

Nominated by
Seth King from Harding Academy
E: [email protected] | W: 901-767-4466 | P:

It is with great pleasure to nominate and write about our Athletic Trainer Jenna McCurdy, MS-ATC. She has been at Bonny Eagle since 2016, and has had a great impact on our student athletes. Jenna comes in everyday and checks in with the school nurse to see how some of her student athletes did during the day, and then she will check into the athletic office to see how things are going. After those two check ins, she goes down to her office and eats lunch with students. The students love to be in her office with her.

During the season, Jenna is constantly working with student athletes and their parents, helping prevent and/or rehabbing from injuries. She attends as many contest as her schedule permits. Many days she will go to multiple facilities to support our student athletes.

In the off-season, you can always find Jenna working with our student athletes to get them ready for the upcoming season. This past fall, everyday I would be walking out the door, Jenna had a group of student athletes that would be in the hall working out with her.

Jenna is very flexible with her work and work space. A couple years ago, our school had undergone a major construction project to our heating system, and during that construction part of her room had been damaged. Jenna never once complained. When we had to move her to a temporary location outside of the school, she never said a negative word about it. She went about her business in stride. She is also always willing to help out in other capacities; many times she will cover an event for myself or greet an official for me if I am late to a contest or at another location.

Eric Curtis, CAA
Bonny Eagle High School Director of Athletics and Activities

Nominated by
Eric Curtis from Bonny Eagle High School
E: [email protected] | W: 207-929-3833 | P: 207-281-2484

Jen is the only AT at our high school. She has formed a special relation with each of her athletes built on respect and trust. Jen has become a sidelines Mom to everyone she encounters. Because she covers all the sports at our school and there is only one of her, she is often working on her own time outside of her contracted hours. Caring for student athletes is so much more than a job it’s a calling . Jen is able to connect with the athletes she is caring for from the perspective of once being an injured athlete who turned that into her life’s work. Jen meets no stranger and is the first one to completed the tasks everyone else has overlooked. Every year Jen chooses a student to shadow her so she can ignite a passion for the athletic training profession in the next generation. When Jen is not on the sidelines she is volunteering with FCA Fellowship of Christian Athletes and FCA MX as well as HOSA the Health Occupation Students at the school. Jen helps prepare the HOSA students for completion in sports medicine. Last year our Loudon High School student won first place in the state. I think it’s obvious why Jennifer Rossi is our most valuable Athletic trainer at LHS, and I think she should be yours also.

Nominated by
Kylie Hawkins from Loudon High School
E: [email protected] | W: 8654584326 | P: 8657659965

Chief Warrant Officer Two (CW2) Jeremy Howard is an outstanding Athletic Trainer that is both a steward and ambassador of his profession. He was the Florida Army National Guard’s (FLARNG) Holistic Health & Fitness (H2F) State Coordinator, but his action in this role were so exemplary that he was selected to operate in a regional capacity. Now, Jeremy is the National Guard Bureau’s (NGB) Region III Holistic Health & Fitness (H2F) Integrator. Operating at the regional level, he has positively shaped the H2F initiatives and efforts for each H2F entity within the Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. He has created industry partnerships with the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) and CultureSync to provide higher quality educational opportunities for Soldiers across the National Guard; these accomplishments were best practices shared across the 54 State and Territories National Guard H2F Programs and were shared with the Active Duty Army counterparts by NGB to better enable success across all aspects of this program. He developed a multi-faceted Body Composition Leaders course designed to empower direct-level leaders to help their soldiers maintain healthy levels of lean body mass and has trained over 400 soldiers in that curriculum. He developed and implemented a highly successful seven-day Wellness Camp training event for Soldiers struggling with fitness and readiness, which directly resulted in $540,000 of cost avoidance for the FLARNG. Working as a member of an action group, he developed the Suicidality, Thoughts, Attitudes, and Resources (STAR) Discussion program designed to help Soldiers in crisis create connections; this program was implemented across the 10,000 Soldier total force of the FLARNG and highlighted by the Army’s Consortium for Health and Military Performance (CHAMP) to be shared Army-wide. He was selected among four other members from across the entire Army and Air National Guard from all 54 States and Territories forces, to be a Cadre member for the Comprehensive Health & Wellness Executive Leader Course, helping to shape culture change and healthy habits at the executive-level of military leaders including multiple generals and the senior enlisted advisor for the National Guard. Jeremy is a servant leader, he taught in an unpaid status to aid his Alma Matter as a Volunteer Adjunct Professor for three different courses across the upper-level Athletic Training program curriculum. His altruistic nature does not end there, he has served for the last five years as a member of the National Strength & Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) Tactical Strength & Conditioning Professional Development Group (TSAC-PDG), where his efforts have been to improve the educational offerings of various institutions through implementing the NSCA’s Tactical Strength and Conditioning curriculum and to further tie NSCA materials into the Armed Forces. He created an industry relationship between the FLARNG and the NSCA to improve Soldier education on safe practices for strength and conditioning. Jeremy also takes time to mentor Athletic Training Students interested in the emerging military setting of Athletic Training. He has also taken the time to mentor multiple Soldiers in their pursuits of career advancement and educational achievement. His Doctoral dissertation on the effects of the Army’s resiliency program was selected to be published in the Advanced Journal of Education and Social Sciences highlighting how Soldiers’ lives can be changed for the better through resiliency training. Jeremy’s work ethic, personality, and accomplishments have earned him the respect of leaders at all levels from the National Guard Bureau to the Florida Army National Guard; but he is also well respected by his peer Warrant Officers in the military and Athletic Trainers in the civilian world. The Soldiers he trains always know they can reach back to him if they need help and that speaks to the Athletic Trainer, Soldier, and professional that is CW2 Jeremy Howard. It is my belief that he is deserving of recognition for his accomplishments and a solid candidate to be selected for the Training & Conditioning’s Most Valuable Athletic Trainer award.

Nominated by
Connor Foy from Florida Army National Guard
E: [email protected] | W: 405-822-0552 | P: 405-822-0552

Jesse Biggins is the ultimate professional as an educational leader and an athletic trainer. Jesse was selected as Bergenfield High School’s Teacher of the Year in 2017-2018. Jesse teaches physical education/health/driver education to the 1226 students at BHS. He is the leader and advisor of the Student Congress at BHS and the students respect and admire him. He has led the Student Congress in running blood drives and many other community service projects throughout his career. He has mentored future athletic trainers and guided students toward careers in athletic training. He has had students follow his path while becoming teachers and athletic trainers in their school districts. For example, former BHS student Robbie addon is now the athletic trainer at Suffern High school in NY, and Robbie gives all the credit to Jesse. Again, Jesse is the ultimate professional and is very worthy of recognition. Jim fasano, Principal of Bergenfield High school.

Nominated by
JAMES FASANO from Bergenfield High School
E: [email protected] | W: 2019239618 | P: 201-923-9618

Jessie Loch exemplifies all the attributes needed to be nominated as the most valuable athletic trainer award.
She is one of the hardest working individuals I have ever been around. Her combination of great work ethic, personabiliy,
and, leadership skills combined with her wide knowledge of supporting and educating our atheletes in their athletic endeavors is elite.
Jessie has taken the time to get to know and understand our athletes beyond their sport. She always looks after our
athletes, and is a great support to our strength and conditioning program. Jessies skills and knowledge has created a
culture in which our athletes sport performance has increased due to her ability to get them back in the field of play,
and provide resources in which to limit and prevent future limitations in thier sport. Jessie’s contribution to the Raytown South
program has changed it for the better. She consistenly demonstrates dedication and patience when working with students/athletes from all of our
programs. Jessie has also helped to establish accountability and respect within our various programs. All of our student-athletes
look forward to seeing her smiling and cheering them on. With the pleasure of working along side Jessie in the safety of the athlete
I highly recommend Jessie Loch for this award.

Nominated by
Monte Yancey from Raytown South High School
E: [email protected] | W: 7135143832 | P:

Jim Stepanich has earned the respect of student-athletes, coaches and school Admin at York. He goes beyond expectations to provide our student-athletes with the best care and support. He is currently mentoring another new staff member on the athletic training staff at York as we hired Jim and another trainer this year last second to fill two positions after our previous athletic trainers left to take on new positions. Jim has provided our student-athletes and coaches with a smooth transition during a time of panic. Jim is also a parent and community member and gives back so much. He is a genuine and humble resource to our athletic department and school.

Nominated by
Rob Wagner from York High School
E: [email protected] | W: 630-617-2403 | P: 630-617-2437

I would like to nominate Joel Luedke for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer award. Joel has worked in both the athletic setting while serving as the Director of Athletic Training at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and in the clinic setting with his new role in the Sports Medicine Department at Mayo Clinic Health System. During his time at the University, Joel oversaw the Athletic Training Center, provided rehabilitative care and coverage to hundreds of athletes, and also mentored undergraduate athletic training students. In his new role, he continues to mentor the younger athletic trainers and works to provide a unique perspective to our patients in sports medicine. Additionally, he has been instrumental in launching a new community partnership between our sports medicine department and the local firefighter department to initiative a new fitness and rehabilitative care program to all the local firefighters. Lastly, he has created a podcast dedicated to help the field of athletic training by providing valuable insight to young professionals in the field, discussing common problems athletic trainers face on a daily basis and how to be an effective athletic trainer while leading others and giving back to the community. Joel is very well respective among his peers and works very well in a team setting. Joel continues to go above and beyond and is always looking for ways to expand our department, improve efficiency and ensure patients and/or athletes get the care they need. He cares deeply about the profession and is doing what he can to move the field forward.

Nominated by
Andrew Jagim from Mayo Clinic Health System
E: [email protected] | W: 608-392-5280 | P: 701-730-4842

Joel has been an athletic trainer with us in various settings for almost two years now. He has been an innovator for our practice. He functions as a physician extender in our busy sports medicine and orthopedics practice. He has also started a firefighter fitness collaboration where he does exercise programming and injury prevention screening for our local fire department. He has even put on the fire gear and gone through the training courses himself to better understand the demands they go through. He also started a youth sports symposium, which is a free educational event for parents, coaches and athletes to learn from our Mayo Clinic and local university experts on various topics pertaining to sports injury and performance. He also obtained academic rank as assistant professor at the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine for his teaching and research experience. To my knowledge he is the only athletic trainer with the rank of assistant professor. Thank you for considering Joel for this award.

Nominated by
Jacob Erickson from Mayo Clinic
E: [email protected] | W: 608-392-5001 | P: 608-792-3172

It is with great pleasure that I nominate Joel Luedke for this honor. No individual I have had the pleasure of meeting embodies the idea of a clinician more than Joel. I first met Joel in early 2016 and, despite holding two demanding Director positions (Director of Athletic Training and Director of Sports Performance) at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, I personally witnessed, and experienced, Joel’s mentorship to a number of young professionals. During that time, I was competing internationally in the sport of powerlifting. I often sought Joel’s input on strategies to mitigate and recover from overuse injuries. Through this time in the training room, I had plenty of opportunity to watch as Joel shaped and helped to develop young trainers early in their career. In his mentorship, Joel was wise, kind, and patient. He possesses a special ability to communicate effectively and give the perfect balance of guidance to challenge and improve those around him. Moreover, the student athletes loved him. He developed a great relationship with the athletes and they trusted and respected him immensely. Beyond helping others to succeed, Joel consistently seeks to hone his own skillset and has successfully completed a number of certifications, ultimately allowing him to better serve his patients and student athletes alike. However, Joel’s contribution doesn’t end at his mentorship or clinical practice. Joel has been a major contributor to the launch of a number of community programs, including a Youth Sports Health Symposium and program aiming to aid firefighter health and performance, expanding his contributions to as many as he can. Joel is always searching for ways he can contribute to the health and wellness of his community and never passes up an opportunity to serve those who could benefit from his services. Along these lines, Joel aims to spread high-quality information through digital media via his podcasts Clinically Pressed and Athletic Training Chat and through his daily blog Total Athletic Therapy. These outlets offer young and established professionals beyond his immediate community the opportunity to develop their approaches, learn new information, and to hear perspectives that may help to improve their own skills/practice. While these undertakings would be enough on their own, Joel also aims to be involved in scientific research as much as possible and has several publications in reputable scholarly journals. Joel is a clinician, mentor, academic, and practitioner of the highest caliber and I cannot imagine any individual who is more deserving of this honor than he is.

Nominated by
Andrew Askow from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
E: [email protected] | W: 6086300237 | P:

John Michael has been an incredible addition to our staff. Extremely sharp and career-minded. He has built a staff of 8-10 student trainers at the high school and has does a great job guiding and mentoring them. He seems to have a great relationship with other trainers in the area.

We’ve had several incidents outside of the realm of typical sports injuries since John Michael has joined us that have never happened anywhere I’ve been. Toe amputations due to dropped weights, several seizures, and then the typical broken bones, torn ACLs, and sprains. John Michael has handled it in stride and was fully prepared in every situation.

He’s made himself available not only to our student athletes in all sports M-F, but also makes it a point to be at weekend events. I believe he has also made himself available to community youth sports that occur on campus.

We’re very fortunate to have him and, in my opinion, he’s deserving of the highest award given to athletic trainers.

Nominated by
Tommy Chandler from Hueytown HS
E: [email protected] | W: 2053794150 | P: 2567494041

Oakcrest High School administration nominates Mr. John Yacoub for the “Most Valuable Athletic Trainer” award. Mr. Yacoub is most deserving of this honor in more ways than we can share. On a daily basis, he goes above and beyond what is expected of him in his role as Athletic Trainer. Mr. Yacoub’s greatest strength is the personal connections he forms with our athletes. He is often looked at as not only “Trainer J”, but a role model and mentor to our students, someone they feel comfortable with, and can turn to, both on and off the field. He is well known in our school, and has earned the respect of students, parents, coaches, teachers and our entire community at large. Mr. Yacoub consistently explores ways to connect his role as athletic trainer to our own biomedical program, expanding on the student opportunities to further their education in this field. He recently has signed an agreement with Thomas Jefferson, making our school a host site for athletic training graduate students to complete their observation rotations, deepening the partnership with the University. Additionally, he is working to develop a specialized pathway in our science department for students interested in an athletic training career. He has organized multiple planning meetings with school administration to set up additional partnership opportunities for students to gain the hands-on and shadow experience at local professional facilities in the field of orthopedics and sports medicine. He also has planned many opportunities for students to meet with various professionals in the field, taking it upon himself to facilitate the interactions. Mr. Yacoub plays a key role in a variety of school-wide events, making himself visible and available, familiarizing himself with students and parents in attendance. He works hand in hand with coaches, teachers and administration to create an environment where students feel safe, comfortable and motivated to participate and excel in not only athletics, but academics as well. We are so lucky to have an Athletic Trainer like John, who brings his passion for the field to all areas of the school, motivating others to follow his lead. Please consider awarding our “Trainer J” for this wonderful honor so that he can be recognized for his hard work and dedication to our students.

Nominated by
Michelle Mesghali from Oakcrest High School
E: [email protected] | W: 856-498-0092 | P: 856-498-0092

Jon McCutchen has been a part of the St. Louis University High Athletics Medical Staff for approximately a decade, beginning his tenure as an ATC hired to oversee venues we use in nearby Forest Park during our spring season.

Following a stint as our lead trainer during maternity leave for our full-time trainer, Jon increased his role to be a year-round trainer and the leader of our strength and conditioning program.

In the summer of 2021, Jon transitioned his role to Director of Sports Medicine and Performance.

In his 18 months in this role, Jon has elevated the care for our student-athletes by connecting with them, their coaches and their families to:
– lead us through our 2nd year of the pandemic, including city mandated bi-weekly COVID testing and state mandated return-to-play protocol
– onboard and mentor a new Head Athletic Trainer
– oversee an upgrade of equipment in our weight room, including the removal of 12 single purpose pieces of equipment and the assembly and installation of seven multi-purpose squat racks
– develop new routines and curricula for our 20 programs and individual users of our weight room based on the new equipment
– shape and equip a motion/speed room across the hall from our weight room
– create curricula for the teams and individual users of our weight room so that they also benefit from the opportunity to engage in speed/motion training
– streamline our ImPACT Concussion Baseline Testing process so that student-athletes have more opportunities to complete the baseline testing on campus, as well as are provided access to complete the baseline from home, if desired
– expand the understanding of our process to upload physicals and medical records to PRIVIT by communicating with coaches beginning in June and attending sessions of summer camps to explain the process to student-athletes and parents in attendance at the camps
– decrease the number of student-athletes held out of the first day of a season’s activities due to incomplete PRIVIT accounts or ImPACT tests

Jon’s impact on our community has been significant. Thank you for considering him for the truly deserving declaration as Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award.

Nominated by
Chris Muskopf from St. Louis University High
E: [email protected] | W: 314-531-0330 | P: 314-482-4254

Joe has been head trainer at Lockport High School (our only trainer) and serves over 1200 student-athletes a season! We are a large High School with over 4000 students and Joe also teaches a sports med class and uses these students to enhance game day experiences for our Student-athletes

Nominated by
Michael Dwyer from Lockport High School
E: [email protected] | W: 8155888151 | P: 8156511825

Justin is the athletic trainer for Jonesville Community Schools – both high school and middle school athletes.

1. Communication with coaches, student athletes and parents is constant and accurate.
2. Goes above and beyond checking on athletes when they are injured (goes to the hospital to meet athletes if they have been sent there)
3. Has taken classes and seminars to keep up on the latest information in athletic training including testing wrestlers
4. Works tirelessly to promote healthly lifestyles/ role modeling for athletes by participating in and attending 5K, 10K, iron man events.
5. Has built great relationships within the community.. parents/athletes trust and know him.
6. His work on the field, court, course is exemplary. His attention to detail when evaluating an athlete in different injury situations is exceptional.
7. Trustworthy, kind and willing to go the extra mile for anyone in our district. When I broke my ankle at an event he went with me to the hospital and made sure I had the best care. He does the same for our athletes.
8. Has mentored student’s that had an interest in athletic training. Previous students have gone into the medical field because of their experiences with him.
9. Replaces nurse when she is unavailable.
10. In my 17 years at Jonesville, Justin is the best trainer we have every had. Hard to replace. Been with Jonesville Community Schools for 9 years.

Nominated by
Kathy Bondsteel from Jonesville Community Schools
E: [email protected] | W: 517-826-7024 | P: 517-425-8355

I have known Justin since he was an undergrad at Emporia State University in 2001. We have leaned on each other at various times throughout both our personal and professional lives. We have pushed each other to grow as professionals, and have challenged each other to succeed. He has always made a point to leave things better than he found them, and I am confident that as he assumes the reins as KATS president in the near future, our organization will flourish.

Justin has continuously striven to find ways to leave his mark on our profession. From professional presentations to other allied health professionals, to advocating for our members legislatively in both Topeka and Washington DC, Justin has actively looked for ways to improve our professional standing. Justin is a member of the Kansas State High School Activities Association’s Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. He was the driving force behind Kansas being the first state to complete the ATLAS survey. His service to Kansas has spanned well over a decade.

He is a member of Abilene High School’s health pathway advisory committee, committed to helping educate future healthcare providers. He has been instrumental in getting various sports medicine courses started at his school. His commitment to secondary school athletes extends far beyond his own school. He has covered events from various KSHSAA events to the National High School Final Rodeo in Wyoming. In addition to working with secondary school kids, he has served as a preceptor for Kansas State University and Fort Hays State University, helping to mold future athletic trainers.

I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for recognition. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Thank you for your consideration, have a great day.

Nominated by
Mark Padfield from Tonganoxie High School
E: [email protected] | W: 913-416-1460 | P: 785-640-4437

He always goes well above and beyond while working to promote and deliver in the context of safety and care for our kids. He is available 7 days a week and can be called on at any time. Justin wants what is best for our athlete’s but promotes the idea of top performance as well. I trust him in ever since of the word. In my 48 season as a wrestling coach I’ve never had a better more reliable trainer to work with. Coach Herb Stinson

Nominated by
Herb Stinson from Aztec High School
E: [email protected] | W: 5053349414 | P: 5053307896

Kathy has been an integral member of Mercyhealth’s Sports Medicine Program, as well as the Janesville, Wisconsin community, for the past 3 decades. As the first Athletic Trainer hired by Mercyhealth, she laid the foundation for the Sports Medicine and Athletic Training Services, both outreach and in-clinic, that we offer today, and has consistently been a part of the expansion and remodeling of that department.
Currently, Kathy works with Craig High School and the Janesville Jets, a Tier II Juniors Ice Hockey Team in the NAHL. In addition to practice and event coverage, Kathy leads yoga sessions for the Janesville Jets and Cougar Gym for Craig High School. Always devoted to those she serves, Kathy spends her summers working in the weight room at Craig High School, helping athletes participating in Cougar Gym with proper form and technique when lifting, as well as injury prevention techniques and rehabilitation exercises.
Kathy’s devotion to Cougar Gym is also a phenomenal tool for Mercyhealth, as it allows us to start new hires off working with her at Cougar Gym. This allows new staff to utilize Kathy as a mentor in their new positions, while observing Kathy’s work ethic and devotion to her craft, and those she serves.
A staple within Janesville, Wisconsin, Kathy’s name is synonymous with Mercyhealth’s Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, Craig High School, the Janesville Jets, and the success of those programs. Always an advocate for the profession, Kathy has also taken the time to serve as a Clinical Preceptor at various times throughout the years, and to mentor high school students and point them in the right direction when they show an interest in the Sports Medicine field. I can confidently say that Kathy has had a huge impact in shaping our staff and department at Mercyhealth, as well as the lives of thousands, if not millions, of young people throughout the greater Janesville area. To this day, Kathy continues to serve as a professional and personal role model for myself and so many others. I do not know another Athletic Trainer more deserving of this award than Kathy Calkins.

Nominated by
Jeremy Clausen from Mercyhealth
E: [email protected] | W: 8152894233 | P: 8152894233

I give my highest recommendation to Kathy Calkins, LAT/ATC for the most valuable athletic trainer award. I have known Kathy for over 12 years and can say that she is genuinely one of the most compassionate and caring athletic trainers I know. Kathy has worked at the same high school for over 30 years. She has achieved NATA Safe Sports School award for her school and works hard to stay at the forefront of best practice and educating coaches and school event personnel. Kathy is also team athletic trainer for a local NAHL hockey team.
Kathy is highly respected amongst her peers and someone who is well established as a leader and role model in our profession. Kathy has played a role in mentorship for all of our new athletic trainers and also takes on job shadows and athletic training students.
Kathy has always found time to both educate and support the middle school athletic programs. She has helped the middle school with educating staff on how to handle concussions and the return to play protocol and offers injury prevention education/training to all coaches. She also assists with local youth sports by preparing pre-season medical kits and offering parent/coach education on pertinent topics.
Kathy is one who certainly shy’s away from attention and would say she does not need to be recognized. It is all the more reason why she deserves this award. She is humble and truly cares about our profession and doing everything she can to keep athletes safe.
There have been countless times that I have seen Kathy volunteer to help her peers in other areas/communities when we’ve been short staffed in our sports medicine outreach program. Kathy is one who knows that our presence makes things safer for athletes and truly goes out of her way to help when needed.
I proudly nominate Kathy Calkins for MVP athletic trainer award.
Sincerely,
Dannielle Koran
Athletic Trainer Supervisor

Nominated by
Kathy Calkins from Mercyhealth
E: [email protected] | W: 608-754-6000 | P:

Kathy Calkins has served Janesville Craig High School as our Athletic Trainer since 1990. In that time she has not only been an outstanding athletic trainer, but a role model for our student-athletes as to what it means to be a caring professional. Kathy works closely with our athletes, their families, coaches, and administrators to provide outstanding service and is universally respected by all. She is incredibly dedicated and knowledgeable and always puts student athletes first.

She has made my life as a head varsity basketball coach and athletic director much easier. Her organization is second to none. She created Emergency Action Plans (EAP’s) for every different athletic venue we have. This is not a small task as the only outdoor sport we play on our own campus is boys and girls soccer. We also host one of the largest cross country meets in the Midwest (approximately 2500 runners) and Kathy has worked with local EMT’s and medical staff to develop a plan to keep all of our athletes safe and cared for.

Most recently Janesville Craig has been identified as a National Athletic Trainers Association Safe School due to the work Kathy has done. Beyond that, she attends all of our annual coaches meetings and runs meetings for our coaches to ensure proper care for both our athletes and coaches. This involves emergency planning, ensuring all our AED locations are known and meets with specific coaches who have athletes who have special medical conditions.

Jansville Craig has also participated in the University of Wisconsin-Madison Health research studies regarding high school athletes (ankle brace study, soccer headgear study, cross country and volleyball injury studies) provides further evidence of her desire to be involved in prioritizing the health and safety of our student athletes through evidence based research.

She has two daughters that both attended Craig High School and has been actively involved in our community. She is well-liked, has a good sense of humor, and a great demeanor when doing her job. She is also an incredibly selfless individual as evidenced by her work as a pilot Cycling Without Age program of the Rock County Mobility Management Council on Aging where she volunteers her time to pilot a trishaw bike to give rides to the elderly and disabled. She has also volunteered for our community food drive organized by our school district to deliver groceries around the holidays to those in need.

As a veteran LAT (NATA BOC certified in 1989), Kathy has worked cooperatively with the many athletic trainers over the past 32 years from our second high school in town, Janesville Parker, and numerous other trainers in the area. She has been an outstanding mentor to those athletic trainers.

One page cannot give a true picture of what a fine individual Kathy is and the amount of respect that I have for her. It is clear to me, as I hope it is to you, that Kathy Calkins is deserving of this recognition. If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything further, please feel free to contact me.

Ben McCormick, CAA
Janesville Craig High School
Athletic Director / Head Basketball Coach

Nominated by
Ben McCormick from Janesville Craig High School
E: [email protected] | W: 608-743-5245 | P: 608-931-5982

While Katie isn’t technically an Oceanside employee and works for our local hospital network, she is 100% a Landshark! She keeps our teams as healthy as possible and was part of 7 state championships last school year. She designed and implemented a Student AT Program where students shadow her and learn about the skills needed and whether they pursue Athletic Training as a college degree.

Nominated by
Mark Meyer from Oceanside Collegiate Academy
E: [email protected] | W: 8439367128 | P: 8434082164

Kelsi is an amazing trainer who goes above and beyond for the students she works with. She is a great communicator who works extremely well with coaches, administrators, students and parents. She is always willing to do everything she can to provide the best care for all students. She currently works for Greater Regional and provides training services for our school district and 1 other school district. She is able to provide both school districts with top notch care and always has a great working relationship with the students. We are extremely lucky to have Kelsi as our trainer!

Nominated by
Allen Naugle from Southwest Valley School District
E: [email protected] | W: 6413224020 | P: 6414181983

Kern Fitzgerald has dedicated his life to his alma mater and to the league within which he works. Over forty years ago, Kern fell in love with sports at St. Sebastian’s School outside of Boston, and still, in 2022, he is the Wise and Caring eye of all athletes that play at and visit St. Sebastian’s.

If you ever find yourself on a field or an ice rink or a tennis court or a wrestling mat or a . . . in the Boston area, you will know that Kern Fitzgerald’s expertise has been there.

A legend.

Deserving.

Edmund McCarthy
[email protected]

Nominated by
Edmund Joseph McCarthy from St. Sebastian’s School
E: [email protected] | W: 6172756197 | P: 6172756197

Kevin has helped to shape Performing Arts athletic training. He is the president of the PAAT society, he works hard at the high school and professional settings, he helps to educate and train new AT and AT students. Kevin has worked so hard to be a mentor and a friend and is overall an amazing AT. I am a better AT because I know him. He is kind, smart, hardworking and is an incredible leader. He demonstrates the best kind of Athletic Trainer.

Nominated by
Megan Holton from Feld Entertainment
E: [email protected] | W: 7345162321 | P: 7345162321

Kevin Lagrange took over the Chaminade-Madonna Athletic training role “officially” in June 2022, but has been instrumental in providing the highest quality care and detail to all of our school and student-athletes’ athletic training needs, since he knew he would take over the position in November 2021. Kevin has implemented a secure online portal where we house all of our athletic paperwork, has help secure a relationship/contract with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital so we have adequate care with game supervision by doctors for all home football games, has brought in a licensed physician to conduct athletic physicals prior to school starting to ensure all athletes are eligible, and has upgraded the daily care of our student-athletes.

Nominated by
Matthew Bishop from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory
E: [email protected] | W: 9549895150 | P: 5853302418

Kimberly has been an assistant athletic trainer for 3 years at Greenwood. During that time, she has served as the middle schools main trainer along with high school athletic duties. She goes above and beyond to make sure her athletes are healthy. Working with coaches to improve the athletes’ strength and conditioning, she has helped to build the foundation that we are trying to build with our middle schoolers. Kim also works with our injured athletes to get them back on the field quickly and safely. She has worked to get our schools nominated for the “safe school” award. Kimberly has also constructed our emergency action plans for each of our venues. She has reached out to the emergency crews to make sure they have the information that they will need when we summon them to our facilities. Kimberly is a vital part of the Greenwood sports medicine team. Her work for Greenwood ISD is above and beyond her normal duties, She is a young trainer, and she has embraced the role with the determination of a seasoned veteran. Greenwood ISD is proud to call her a “Greenwood Ranger”!

Nominated by
Brad Brown from Greenwood ISD
E: [email protected] | W: 432 853-6551 | P: 432 853-6551

Krisi is our Head Athletic Trainer at Ohio Northern University. She is in charge of 5 other trainers and helps keep our 24 sports up and running. She is a part of our weekly Athletic Administration meetings, and brings great ideas to the table to continue moving forward our teams and training.
Her communication is out of this world, and many coaches have even come back to her after leaving our University saying how great our training department is ran. She truly puts the athletes first and always has their best in mind when it comes to putting in new directives.
Krisi sets aside time to have weekly meetings with her team to discuss their schedules and any concerns they have for their athletes/teams, and she also holds monthly discussions with our coaches on different topics like ACL prevention, concussions, and nutrition.
Krisi does an amazing job using her time wisely and still has the ability to run her department efficiently.
We are proud of our trainers here at Ohio Northern, but Krisi is the person who keeps this train moving forward on a day to day basis.
It is with great polar bear pride that I recommend Krisi Hatem for this awesome recognition.

Nominated by
Kourtney Wilson from Ohio Northern University
E: [email protected] | W: 419-772-2725 | P: 330-933-1512

Krista Taylor has worked at our high school for about 10 years. She is always energetic, with a great attitude and loves being around our athletes. She has earned everyone’s respect by being very knowledgeable, professional and does everything that she can do to help our athletes return to health or stay healthy. Krista goes above and beyond by taking time out of her teaching day or personal life to help not only our athletes, but teachers or family that need medical training attention. She is active in the athletic training profession, pushing for more help and supplies to help her continue to do a great job at our school. Finally, she loves our athletes and will do anything to help them regain their health. She puts their needs above her own and has earned a reputation as one of the best ATs in the state of Utah. I highly recommend Krista Taylor for this recognition.

Nominated by
Brad Burtenshaw from Maple Mountain HS
E: [email protected] | W: 801-794-6740 | P: 801-455-0828

Lance goes above and beyond for all teams on campus as well as clubs. There is not a time when a student had a question that he does not help to assist in getting quality services to each and every athlete. He mentors students in the field of athletic training, and my team has confidence in their knowledge and skill to handle issues they are trained to handle.

Nominated by
Daniel Milbauer from Hamilton High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4808835164 | P:

Best training I have ever worked with. Cares about the kids and is the hardest worker.

Nominated by
Mike Woods from Hamilton
E: [email protected] | W: 4802151079 | P:

Lance Michael has worked at Hamilton high school for 20 plus years. He is one of the most well-respected athletic trainers in the state of Arizona. The list of parents and students that Lance has assisted not only in regard to injuries but also student development, is too many to list. Lance goes above and beyond for student athletes, patient’s, parents’, coaches and the student body at Hamilton. His team of student athletic trainers is second to none and many have gone on to continue in this field in their adult lives. He is at the cutting edge of his profession. He is a leader in his field, and he is always in motion. In 20 years, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Lance sitting down. He’s always willing to help, always involved, always supportive and always a Hamilton Husky. I am proud and honored to be able to nominate Lance for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer.

Nominated by
Richard Baniszewski from Hamilton High School
E: [email protected] | W: 480-883-5050 | P: 480-694-2493

I have known LaRena for 3 years now. She was placed at one of our local high schools that is known for having a bad reputation. She was given almost no budget to work with, over 300 athletes and no time off, yet she always gives 110 percent into her job. She has saved many lives by early diagnosing/ emergent situations of not only her students but mine too. LaRena fights for the safety and well-being of the kids even when the coaches push back, and has always stood her ground when she knows something is wrong. Each year she takes students who are interested in athletic training and gives them as much hands on experience as the school will allow. She has even worked with other schools in the county to either start student programs or allow her students to shadow there to get different experiences. She is a positive role model, and many of her student trainers have continued athletic training in college because of her. LaRena has been the assistant to our director for 2 years now, and head lead for almost all of our coverage work outside the schools. At one time she was overseeing 15 athletic trainers and their schedules to coordinate equal coverage. LaRena has also volunteered to help with our administration for our clinic by teaching students who come on field trips, maintenance behind company events and commercials aired on local TV. On top of everything, she is assisting our orthopedic doctors in groundbreaking research.

I believe she goes above and beyond, and deserves the recognition for something she would call “a normal day”.

Nominated by
Kaele Lawless from Hughston Clinic
E: [email protected] | W: 813-326-5904 | P:

Lindsey serves our entire community as not only an athletic trainer, but also as our staff Wellness Ambassador. She is tasked with providing health-conscious information to all staff and works to provide engagement opportunities for staff both on and off campus, including workshops for social, emotional, and mental wellness and community events like walk-a-thons. Lindsey’s commitment to our athletes is seen daily as she effectively communicates student injury concerns with staff, including timelines and necessary follow ups. She works closely with coaches to ensure they and their teams feel supported, frequently updating coaches on players return to play protocol. Her collaboration in crafting a thorough and efficient Emergency Action Plan was incredible; having permanent signs printed throughout the athletic facilities and holding space to review the plan with staff each athletic season.

Lindsey currently mentors 2 athletic trainers and will continue with additional trainers next semester. Her mentorship has proven successful with Phoenix Union having hired her previous graduating trainers for the 2022-23 school year. Her desire to grow student potential does not stop with developing professional athletic trainers. Lindsey also runs a robust Sports Medicine Club where our students are trained on the basics of athletic training, sports-related injuries, and treatment options. At each athletic event she has a team of students who assist with small tasks like preparing ice while learning from her with first-hand experience.

Lindsey’s commitment to her profession is evident in her willingness to not only mentor those around her, but to also serve on leadership councils at both the district and state level. While serving on the State Board of Directors for Arizona Athletic Trainers Association, she completed a term as the Secretary and now as Vice President. Previously she served on the Governmental Affairs Committee for 7 years. In that time, she collaborated to reintroduce the state licensure that was set to expire and worked to add dry needling as a skill for athletic trainers to use legally. She also coordinated the Lunch on the Lawn event, which brought together the Legislative stakeholders and Athletic Trainers to provide education surrounding the importance of licensure.

Lindsey maintains a close working relationship with her supervising physician at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, as well as with the Arizona Interscholastic Association and the National Federation of State High School Associations. She is involved at all levels of the work, on the field, legislatively, and serving her community with countless volunteer hours for fundraisers, scholarships, association events, and more. Her relationship-making skills are superior.

Lindsey’s demonstrated commitment to her entire community make her an excellent recipient for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award. She is respected and revered by students and staff, serves as a wellness champion for her peers, mentors trainers and continues to mentor them after graduation, engages with her community through walk-a-thons, events, and educational opportunities, and still manages to find time to run a Sports Medicine Club for the student leaders here at Metro Tech High School.

It is without hesitation that I recommend Lindsey Loughran for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award.

Nominated by
Chad McCluskey from Metro Tech High School
E: [email protected] | W: 6027648003 | P: 6026091914

Liz is amazing! She is available for student-athletes and coaches pretty much 24/7. She holds a keep high standards for herself and the coaches she is working with. And she supports our student-athletes with training/rehab outside of season.

Nominated by
Adam Reynolds from Cazenovia CSD
E: [email protected] | W: 315-415-0429 | P:

Liz goes above and beyond for all of our student-athletes and coaches. She is constantly evolving and helping our student-athletes even outside of their sports seasons. For example, in the off-season leading up to last spring, she did multiple sessions to emphasize injury prevention, which was a huge asset for our student-athletes.

Nominated by
Caitlin Byrne from Cazenovia High School
E: [email protected] | W: (315) 655-1314 | P:

Liz Sherman is all about supporting our student-athletes and coaching staff. In nearly 20 years of coaching she is the professional and prepared ATC I’ve ever encountered. Our school’s student-athletes trust her without question, our coaching staff see’s her as a resource, and she has a calming effect on parents.

Liz is the unsung hero of our athletic programs. There is no “ego” with Liz, it’s all about keeping kids safe and healthy.

In addition, she has gone above and beyond to teach players about hydration, nutrition, injury prevention, and safe exercising techniques.

Nominated by
Bob Oldfield from Cazenovia High School
E: [email protected] | W: 315-655-5301 | P:

Liz is an outstanding trainer and puts forth an enormous amount of time and effort supporting our athletes. She is an outstanding candidate for this award.

Nominated by
Liz Sherman from Cazenovia High School
E: [email protected] | W: 3156551358 | P: 3152258238

Liz does an awesome job making sure every team in our district is properly equipped for the season. She goes out of her way to connect with students and develop relationships. She communicates with coaches, parents, and student-athletes on a regular basis, and is an awesome resource for our school athletics program!

Nominated by
Sean Condon from Cazenovia CSD
E: [email protected] | W: 315-655-1325 | P:

Liz is an outstanding trainer and puts forth an enormous amount of time and effort supporting our athletes. She is an outstanding candidate for this award.

Nominated by
Liz Sherman from Cazenovia High School
E: [email protected] | W: 3156551358 | P: 3152258238

For the last ten years, Liz has attended ALL of our school’s games AND practices attending to the many needs of our school’s athletes, coaches and parents. In the fall, winter and spring Liz can be found traveling from field to field in the rain, heat and/or cold to do whatever needs to be done. She attends to our athletes, makes appointments when we need them, and supervises rehab and return to play protocol for each and every athlete who needs it. Our school community trusts and relies on her judgement and we literally put the health of our kids in her extremely capable hands every day.

Nominated by
Calvin Skelton from Bel Air High School
E: [email protected] | W: 401-638-4600 | P: 410-212-3471

Liz is the best Athletic Trainer I have worked with in my 25+ year career as a coach. She is proactive, not just treating injuries, but educating athletes about prevention and long-term solutions. She exhibits incredible professionalism and has raised the perception of athletes, parents and coaches about the valuable role that athletic trainers play in our program. Liz is exceptionally collaborative and coordinates the efforts of other trainers and the full range of other medical professionals (doctors, school nurse, physical therapists, etc.) to better serve our student athletes. She beloved by our athletes, appreciated by our coaches and instrumental to the success of our entire program.

Nominated by
Kurtis P. Wheeler from Cazenovia Central School
E: [email protected] | W: 315-655-1314 | P: 315-440-9458

Liz has worked so hard to establish such positive relationships with both coaching staff members and students. Everyone respects her knowledge and work ethic. She is someone who is always there when you need her and put everyone else first. She finds students when they forget to go see her for treatment, she is proactive with injury prevention for all of our athletes and runs clinics after school to participate in injury prevention exercises. She is a welcomed member of our community and someone who deserves all of the credit in the world. Even when Liz is not at your practice or game, she is always at the ready with her cell phone and follows up on everything. She has been a stabilizing force in our school and is someone that makes an impact on everyone that she comes into contact with!

Nominated by
Timothy Mascari from Cazenovia
E: [email protected] | W: 3152637301 | P:

Liz goes above and beyond for our student athletes. She has built a great rapport with the athletes, coaches, and nurses. She is extremely knowledgeable, and always has up to date information to pass on to us. She takes every injury seriously and is a strong advocate for our athletes. She makes sure parents get the proper care for their children when they are injured, and follows up with coaches and the nurses. I feel priveleged to work with Liz and l always know our athletes are getting the best of care!

Nominated by
Kathy Hudson from Cazenovia High School
E: [email protected] | W: (315) 655-1337 | P: (315) 708-3073

As soon as Liz became our schools trainer she immediately reached out to all sports and made sure every sport understood that she was there to support every student athlete regardless of what sport they played. In the past student athletes often felt the athletic trainer was only there for major sports. Liz met with all teams and is constantly touching base with all athletes by stopping by practices and games when possible. Her open door policy in addition to her friendly attitude usually finds her training room full of athletes seeking her advice. I coach tennis and I know that both my girls and boys tennis players now feel very comfortable and confident with treatment and advice they get from Liz.
Liz is committed to the school and keeps all coaches current on her schedule and sends out important articles pertaining to high school athletes.
Liz is well deserving of this award.

Nominated by
Ken Garay from Cazenovia school district
E: [email protected] | W: 19087973398 | P: 19087973398

I have been a coach at Cazenovia for 8 years. Liz goes above and beyond for our student athletes. She has held training sessions to prevent injuries, she has provided support for students who have been dealt a season ending injury and as well as many other roles where she has gone above and beyond. She is an asset to our athletic programs.

Nominated by
Kaleen Sessler from Cazenovia High School
E: [email protected] | W: 3156631848 | P:

Liz is an outstanding trainer. She is knowledgeable and professional. She cares about our athletes and is well respected by them. She makes things easier for our coaching staff. She is consistently working with our coaches and athletes to improve overall performance and limit injuries. She is a very caring person and you see it everyday in the help and advice she gives to our athletes and our coaches. She is a mentor to her colleagues and younger people going into the profession She goes above and beyond the call of duty and it is evident in all she does.

Nominated by
Lorraine Scheftic from Cazenovia Central School
E: [email protected] | W: 3156551358 | P: 3155592189

Mary Leafblad has spent her career devoted to the Athletic training profession. From day one of being the AT here at The Covenant School, she has devoted countless hours to her job and caring for the health and safety of the athletes at our school. Our students and families consider her invaluable. She is an asset to our campus and is one of the many reasons the Athletics Program at Covenant continues to flourish.

Nominated by
Jesse Olvera from The Covenant School – Dallas
E: [email protected] | W: 2143585818 | P:

Matt Owens has been the heart of the Cedar Ridge High School athletic training program for the last 7 years. Matt leads a team of 3 athletic trainers including himself. He has successfully championed the addition of the 3rd athletic trainer at Cedar Ridge. Matt also hosts and mentor’s undergraduate athletic training students and physical therapy sports residence at his clinic. He continues to run a high level of rehab and care to a population of over 1000 athletes at Cedar Ridge High School. His athletic training student aid program combined with their Sports Medicine elective runs on average 12-15 great high school students. Matt not only helps organize sports medicine care at his campus but is vital in the organization of middle school football athletic trainer coverage, district wide CPR certification, and the district point person for Rank One athlete management software. This past year he has also been a lead in the successful partnership of Round Rock ISD and Ascension Seton Hospital Group. In addition to his professional duties he’s very active in his church and being a dad to his high school senior athlete.

Nominated by
John Horsley from Round Rock Westwood High School
E: [email protected] | W: 5124644053 | P: 5127891480

Our athletic trainer, Matt Simok, is literally the standard in his field. In our state of California and throughout the United States, he is well-respected among his peers in his field of work. Under general direction, he performs a variety of activities involved in the prevention, recognition, evaluation, management, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries. He administers preventative and
rehabilitative treatment to students and athletes engaged in various high school sports on our campus and provides information, in-service, and guidance to coaches and faculty. He also serves as a liaison between the students, parents, coaches, and physicians in evaluation, management, treatment, and long-term
rehabilitation of athletic injuries as well as working a flexible schedule performing related duties as assigned.

He attends home and away sports events to monitor athletic activities and provide medical treatment services including identifying, evaluating, and providing immediate first aid in response to athletic injuries. He responds to medical emergencies; refers student-athletes to physicians or the hospital as
appropriate. He has actually been seen on national television and the news for once saving the life of a soccer coach in a playoff contest on our school property.

Our athletic trainer provides assistance to students in the prevention of athletic injuries and prepares students for practice and competition; tapes, stretches, massages, and wraps athletes to prevent injury or re-injury. He also supplies and assists students with straps, braces, and other adaptive equipment to provide protection from injury.

He also assists students with special therapeutic exercises by performing demonstrations and ensuring students’ understanding of proper exercise techniques and procedures; assists in educating students, coaches, parents, and faculty in nutrition, health, weight management, concussions, and
heat illnesses. Implements physician instructions related to rehabilitation; consults with physicians and other medical personnel in determining and monitoring the appropriate course of treatment for injured students. Our athletic trainer evaluates, determines, and recommends appropriate timelines for sidelining and returning injured student-athletes to playing status; advises student-athletes, coaches, and others regarding potential health risks of athletic participation to prevent injury and re-injury. He also plans, organizes, and coordinates the transportation and care of athletic safety equipment,
uniforms, supplies, and materials for home and away events. He also assists with physical examinations and physical fitness screening. He prepares and maintains a variety of records and reports related to students, injuries, treatment, progress, supplies, and assigned activities. He also always follows Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) regulations regarding confidential student information. We ask him and he orders and maintains adequate inventory levels of first aid, bracing, and other treatment supplies as needed inspects and assures the safety of athletic equipment, uniforms, and facilities; identifies and provides recommendations for resolving potential hazards. In addition, he supervises student assistants and provides work direction and training, operates a motor vehicle to conduct work, and assists in off-season conditioning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of physical fitness.

Here are a few lists of his employment standards:
KNOWLEDGE OF:
Principles, practices, procedures, techniques, and equipment used in the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries.
Diagnostic symptoms of various athletic injuries and appropriate methods of treatment.
Practices, procedures, and techniques involved in taping, stretching, massaging, and wrapping athletes to prevent injury or re-injury.
Medical practices, procedures, and terminology related to athletic training.
Principles and theories of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and diet.
General principles of return to play protocols.
Operation of a variety of first aid, therapeutic, and adaptive equipment.
Safety guidelines and regulations in athletic and therapeutic activities.
Individualized rehabilitation and reconditioning techniques and procedures for injured students.
First Aid and CPR techniques.
Oral and written communication skills.
Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.
Record-keeping and report preparation techniques.
Inventory methods and practices.
Disinfectant and clean and sterile equipment techniques.
General principles of supervision and training.
ABILITY TO:
Perform a variety of activities involved in the prevention and treatment of student athletic injuries.
Attend sports events to monitor athletic activities and provide medical treatment services.
Develop and implement individualized rehabilitation, therapeutic, and reconditioning programs for injured students.
Identify, evaluate, and provide immediate first aid in response to athletic abilities.
Understand, recognize and carry out directions issued by physicians and physical therapists related to concussions and other related injuries.
Tape, stretch, massage, and wrap athletes to prevent injury or re-injury.
Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.
Learn, interpret, and apply applicable laws, codes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Assist students with specialized therapeutic exercises.
Inspect and assure the safety of athletic equipment and uniforms.
Operate a variety of first aid, therapeutic, adaptive, rehabilitation, and weight equipment.
Determine and recommend appropriate timelines for sidelining and returning injured student-athletes to playing status.
Provide information, education, and guidance to students, parents, coaches, and faculty.
Work flexible hours as needed by the assignment.
Provide work direction and guidance to student assistants.
Plan and organize work.
Meet schedules and timelines.
Work independently with little direction.
Maintain records and prepare reports.
Perform basic arithmetical calculations.
Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
Establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with others.
Promote team building and a positive work environment.
Work confidentiality with discretion.

Matt currently has almost completed his doctorate and serves as an ambassador and pioneer in his field within our area and beyond. He is the kindest, most generous, and most dependable person I know and has gone as far as not only does he treat our student-athletes but his fellow colleagues and family members throughout the community. Candidly, he is more qualified and better suited to be at the highest level in his field but is gracious and decent that he has built a winning and successful program in our own community priding himself in serving a socioeconomic that does not and would not have the resources without him fostering and nurturing generations of kids and adults. At the very least, this recognition would validate and value his service to our community and recognize and reward him for the selfless acts he performs every day. Matt Simok, our athletic trainer is most deserving of this award, and the joy this recognition would bring him and our community we would embrace and celebrate for him doing the noblest of professions mending and healing children so they can do what they love and what we are here for education-based athletics and giving to children and their education. We are a better school for the life skills and social skills he models and teaches are children and the joy he brings to his community.

Nominated by
Dominic Farrar from Charter Oak High School
E: [email protected] | W: 626-915-5841 | P: 626-665-8466

Meagan checks off all of the “criteria boxes” and more in her capacity as one of our Certified Athletic Trainers here at Worcester Academy. In addition to her duties with direct supervision over Football in the Fall, Basketball in the Winter and Baseball in the Spring, Meg is our school-wide, on call “go to,” to fix the aches and pains of students, faculty, administrators and even area alums. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her PT experiences and combines a sense of calmness and empathy to everyone she works with. Meg is absolutely adored by our student-athletes and spends time – pool rehab in the early morning; cold baths in the training facility into the early evening hours; stretching and balance exercises for those on the mend & more. Additionally, Meg finds time to engage in Community Service projects here in the Greater Worcester area (St John’s Food Pantry) and does it all with a smile and a sense that she is truly enjoying her work. She is passionate about her profession and has mentored numerous Worcester Academy students who work closely with here in the training room and on the sideline during contests. Inspired by Meg’s caring oversight and witnessing the positive impact Meg has on our athletes and our community, a number of our college bound students have opted to pursue a course of study to prepare them for this noble profession. Meg is “all-in” with our school initiatives to bring awareness to causes that need attention; i.e October Breast Cancer Awareness games; Play for K games in the Winter; Strike out Cancer game during the baseball season. In an era where it is easy to forget or downplay the need “to serve others”, Meg does it on a daily basis without fanfare, without the need for recognition and is an absolute treasure in every respect.

Nominated by
Edward A Reilly from Worcester Academy
E: [email protected] | W: 5087545302 | P: 5082945289

Megan is hands down the best Athletic Trainer in our state. This is my 26th year as a head coach and have worked with 9 different trainers and Megan is the best. She not only is very good at her job but to watch her build relationships with our student-athletes, parents, staff, and our community is inspiring. Megan has her Bachelor degree in Public Health and her Masters in Athletic Training. She is on the board for the Sam Day Foundation which organizes several events that raise money for children cancer. She is also an advisor for the Alpha Gamma Delta chapter at Oregon State University. Megan is the “go to” trainer for Pacific University students who are working at earning their Masters in Athletic Training. Her “work day” here at school is from 2pm-10pm but she is often here for morning practices or students who need treatment (as well as all weekend practices). You’d be hard pressed to find someone as well liked and respected as Megan Sarles.

Nominated by
Shawn from Tigard High School
E: [email protected] | W: 5034315477 | P: 5039132028

Our trainer is very deserving of consideration for the Most Valuable Trainer Award. She has been an outstanding pillar in the Carolina Athletic department for 15 years. Melanie mentors coaches, sits in on interviews in addition to providing care for our athletes. She has a solid relationship with the athletes and the parent community. Our athletic budget is not as grand as most schools, and Melanie understands our financial restrictions and she budgets and prioritizes needs and still makes sure that the care and service the students receive is equal to the other athletes in Greenville County. Although she lives an hour away from the school, she has never complained about staying late waiting on the parent of an injured athlete or arriving early to cover non-school day practices scheduled by coaches. Melanie may not have to cover 3-4 levels of sports that some do, but her efforts given to our 22 teams does not go unnoticed and is deserving of greater recognition. When she is not tasked with events on Carolina’s campus, Melanie covers at other high schools and community events.

Nominated by
Thomas Fair from Carolina High School
E: [email protected] | W: 8643552318 | P: 8643031551

Missy Portela is one of Athletic Trainers at O’Connor High School. She has taken the lead role in our AT department. She plays a vital role in our athletic department and in our Career and Technology Education department.
Missy attends our monthly Athletic department coaches meetings. Within those meetings, she keeps our AD and coaches update on processes and procedures relevant to the treatment of student athletes. Missy also connects with in-season coaches through email and face to face conversations.
Missy teaches our Sports Medicine curriculum as well as our NSAM class. In both of those classes she has her students active in the training lab teaching, demonstrating and having students practicing their skills related to athletic training/sports medicine. As well as, her NSAM students in the weight room to put to use their class learning. Students in these classes often want to volunteer hours in the Training room after school and at athletic competitions.
Missy also is a preceptor to GCU Athletic Training students. She takes on 2-3 of the clinical students each semester and provides the opportunities to use their skills and work on the proficiencies. She creates an environment for those students to be successful and debriefs with them after patient care opportunities. Missy instills confidence in her students and interns by the way she gives them instruction and feedback specific to what they are doing.
Speaking specifically for my team, Missy has used her personal time to travel with us to a three day softball tournament. She has shown up early, 6:00 am, to make sure that my athletes get what they need prior to leaving for a game or tournament. Along those lines, she is present in supporting our athletes at state tournament games and championships. Missy also has taken on designing and facilitating mobity workout for injury prevention, strength workouts for performance and recovery workout for our female athletes in Power Training classes. Missy definitely goes above and beyond her duties in the classroom and training room.
When it comes to community service, toy drives, can food drives, Childhood cancer awareness and diabetes awareness campaigns are a part of her culture in her program. She rallies her students to get behind and support these campaigns. Missy also reaches out to our community through her communication with parents of student athletes, connecting them with our team doctors, or The Core medical facility for physicals and treatment beyond the training room.
Missy is an excellent representation of Athletic Trainers.

Nominated by
Melissa Hobson from O’Connor High School
E: [email protected] | W: 623-445-7142 | P: 623-210-8141

Mike has been the trainer at Shikellamy for over 20 years. I have worked with my as both a coach and as the AD at Shikellamy. He is passion and desire to make our athletes the best they can be. He helps them in all areas of being an athletes, he gives them advice in nutrition, training, and rehab. He is an asset to our athletic program.

Nominated by
Tim Foor from Shikellamy High School
E: [email protected] | W: 570-286-3702 | P: 570-898-2824

It is my great pleasure to write on behalf of Michael (Tony) Giordano, Jr., L-ATC. A graduate of South Portland (Maine) High School and the University of Southern Maine, Tony has served for the past eleven years as an athletic trainer at Thornton Academy in Maine following stints at nearby Cheverus High School and Bonny Eagle High School . In that capacity, he has assumed a leadership role in sports medicine in the southern Maine region, and his work has benefited scores of young athletes who have performed on the courts and playing fields of this school.

In his work at Thornton Academy, Tony Giordano has a proven record of excellence and dedication to his profession. His greatest asset is his ability to work with young people. He is committed to the safety and well-being of all youngsters involved in the interscholastic athletic program and uses both preventative as well as rehabilitative approaches to that end. A student of his craft, he keeps abreast of the latest methodologies and utilizes a progressive approach in his athletic training practice. He has excellent knowledge of his chosen expertise and demonstrates competence and confidence as he diagnoses injuries and prescribes remedial measures. At all times he employs a highly professional yet friendly approach that is reassuring to students and their parents and inspires their confidence in him. He is committed to his professional development and regular attends events offered by the National Athletic Trainers Association.

An excellent communicator, Tony excels at both oral and written expression. He interacts with student-athletes, parents, and coaches in a professional manner and has an open door policy for all. He articulates his ideas clearly and concisely that meets the needs of his audience. His ability to write has made a lasting impact on the Thornton Academy athletic landscape. In particular, he was a regular participant and contributor to the Pandemic Project Task Force, a 21-session on-line forum for managing the pandemic. In addition, he has worked with the athletic administrator to develop site-specific emergency protocols for all of the school’s facilities. These works are positive exemplars for other athletic trainers to emulate and will form a lasting legacy established by Tony for the school.

Tony’s commitment to the future of his profession is clearly demonstrated by his work with the sports medicine programs at both the University of New England and the University of Southern Maine. Each year Tony works closely with three to five student athletic trainers from that program. He oversees their work and provides direct instruction and feedback on a number of areas, including delivery of service, observing all HIPPA and FERPA regulations, and meeting professional standards. In his work in this area, he has served as a positive mentor for young people aspiring to the profession and enhanced the breadth and depth of the athletic training services that Thornton Academy has been able to offer to our own students and those of other schools in the region.

Tony Giordano is a significant contributor to the athletic department at Thornton Academy and to the athletic training profession as a whole in the southern Maine region. The experiences of the student-athletes and coaches has been enriched by his presence and his work at our school. A former student-athlete himself, he clearly understands the importance of athletics to student life in the school and always puts the athlete’s best interests in mind. At all times, he is cognizant of the importance of safety and precaution and lives the mantra that the health and well-being of the youngster is the most important factor in making decisions about his or her ability to participate. He is a trusted friend and colleague who plays a significant role in the lives of the people whom he serves.

I can think of no candidate more deserving for consideration of this honor than Tony Giordano. I encourage your consideration of his qualifications. If I can be of further assistance to you, please feel free to contact me at (207)-602-4406.

Sincerely,
Gary R. Stevens
Director of Student Activities
Thornton Academy
Saco, ME

Nominated by
Gary Stevens from Thornton Academy
E: [email protected] | W: 207-602-4406 | P: 207-671-4578

I provided a text nomination for me and my wife Emily Sansing.

Nominated by
Emily Sansing from Seminole ISD
E: [email protected] | W: 9154725184 | P:

One of the most important attributes that a successful certified athletic trainer needs to possess is the ability to build relationships with student-athletes, athletic coaches and the community as a whole.
I have personally witnessed how Ms. Fitzgerald creates those types of relationships and how the young men and women who come under her care have benefited from that connection.
There is a minimum number of athletic physical and ECG screenings that each school is required to complete each year, and Ms. Fitzgerald doubles that amount to ensure that not only every Boone student-athlete has the ability to become cleared to participate in athletics, but the surrounding middle schools and neighboring high schools as well.
She is leader in the Orange County Public Schools athletic trainer consortium and sits on numerous committees to make sure that all student-athletes in the district have the best possible opportunities.
The hours that she puts in at Boone is not surpassed by other individual on campus and her integrity, dedication and commitment to excellence is on display for all to see on a daily basis.

Nominated by
Kevin Demer from Boone High School
E: [email protected] | W: 407-893-7215 | P: 407-406-4692

It gives me great pleasure to nominate our Head Athletic Trainer, Ms. April Gonzalez as a nominee for the Most Valuable Trainer Award. Not only is she an excellent Head Athletic Trainer but in some ways also an integral extension of our Athletic Department and Coaching Staff. She always prioritizes the safety of all of our student athletes and is a phenomenal asset to our school and community alike.

Nominated by
Ms. April Gonzalez from Miami Southridge Senior High School
E: [email protected] | W: (305)238-6110 | P: (305)720-8554

Nancy is truly dedicated to the profession and her colleagues. She is always welcoming. She is highly respected and revered on her campus and by many throughout the district. She has often been there for me through many trials. She is highly involved in campus and community events including FCA. She is well loved in and around her community. She has built a solid Athletic Training program at Parkland H.S. where she mentors her student trainers not only in the training room, but in all aspects of life. I have had student trainers work with her and they could not say enough good things about her upon their return. She welcomes everyone’s students with open arms and is willing to share her knowledge and love with them.

Nominated by
Ineka Olbrisch from Eastwood Middle School
E: [email protected] | W: 9154344300 | P: 9154713822

I’ve been involved in high school coaching for 27 years and I have worked with several athletic trainers. Nate is by far the best that I have worked with for many reasons. I recently took over as our schools Athletic Director and when speaking to our coaches about Nate, it is always about what a great job he is doing. He goes far beyond the call of duty. We had a football player get a concussion and Nate felt the athlete needed to go to the emergency room. We had three lightning delays during the game. It started at 6:00 in the evening and ended at 11:30 p.m. Nate stopped at the hospital on his way home to check on the athlete. he could have called….he chose to stop by in person. Nate also is a mentor to five other AT’s in our area. He travels to them one day a week to shadow and advise them, and of course is in contact via text and calls. Nate constantly communicates with athletes’ parents. Anytime he is treating an athlete, he will call their parents so there isn’t any miscommunication. He knows high school students sometimes don’t give the parents the whole story. It might sound cliche, but Nate is loved by the student athletes, parents, and coaches here at Simon Kenton High School.

Nominated by
Troy Roberts from Simon Kenton HS
E: [email protected] | W: 859-960-0179 | P: 859-240-4999

1X Indiana Athletic Trainer of the year
Started a student athletic trainer program
Brought in College athletic trainer interns to Highland
Working with Central Office to bring a full time trainer to Highland Full Funded by STOH and not outside sources.
As the athletic directors w/ no assistant, Patrick is my Right Hand Man, doing duties not in his job description but doing what is needed for our athletes.

Nominated by
Ryan Harrington from School Town of HIghland
E: [email protected] | W: 219922-5611 | P: 219-406-5499

I am pleased and honored to nominate Paul Widner MsEd, LAT, ATC for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award. I have had the pleasure of working with Paul for just three short years; however, I learned very quickly that Paul embodies the athletic training profession in everything he does. Paul joined the Beacon athletic training team two years ago after he retired from teaching and decided to only hold 1 full time
job. For many years, Paul juggled being a full time educator at the school and the full time athletic trainer. Beacon struck gold when he became an addition to our team. Paul has been a certified athletic trainer for 34 years and has been an NATA member for 36 years, during that time he has done nothing but lift up the athletic training profession in his local community. Paul has been the athletic trainer for Northwood High school for 34
years and during that time has brought nothing but pride to the profession. The Northwood school district has looked to Paul as an educator in the medical community and has leaned on him for guidance as an athletic trainer throughout his tenure there. He developed the athletic training student aid program at Northwood High School, which has flourished over the years and provided future athletic trainers locally and nationally. He has graciously hosted Beacon undergraduate athletic interns. He created the schools official concussion return to play policy long before it became law in the state of Indiana. He has been an educator about the profession of athletic training to his community and spoken to local news, school boards, local EMS, and anyone he can to educate on the profession and what services athletic trainers are able to provide. He was also a staple in helping determine COVID protocols and provided much needed guidance and leadership through the current pandemic. He has worked hard to get Northwood the safe sport school first team award recently, and continues to grow and adapt with the changing times, all while providing comprehensive medical care for Northwood and the Michiana area. It is apparent that Paul was a stand out from the beginning of his career. He not only won the “Sayers J Miller Jr.” scholarship in 1986, was the NATA student writing contest second runner up in 1987, but also was recognized as the GLATA certification achievement award winner in 1987. From the beginning, Paul had passion and embodied everything about athletic training. Paul has gone on to serve his community in many ways as a respected allied health care provider. He served on the IATA communications committee in the late 90’s and early 200’s, provided medical coverage for the North and South all start football team. He has volunteered for GLATA meetings, and served as an exam proctor through the late 80’s and early 90’s. Outside of athletic training, Paul has made a name for himself by working with the Boy Scouts of American as a committee member, tiger leader, and
cubmaster. As the Coordinator of athletic training at Beacon, and head athletic trainer at Indiana University South bend, I have worked with many athletic trainers across the state of Indiana, and have worked with many more across the country in my service nationally through the NAIA-ATA. I have had the pleasure of working with and being
mentored by many veteran athletic trainers Paul is among that group. I view Paul not only as a leader of this profession but also as a mentor, not only do I learn how to be a better athletic trainer, I learn how to be adaptable to the changes through him. I have never met a veteran athletic trainer more willing to learn and grow. He inspires other athletic trainers around him to be better, and motivates those in his ATSA program, and Beacon undergraduate interns to go into the profession. Paul’s wisdom, professionalism, insight, communication, passion, dedication, and experience is above the rest to say the least. He has served not only his community but the athletic training profession in more ways than many will know.

Kara Werner-Sanders, MAC, LAT, ATC, CSCS
Head Athletic Trainer
Indiana University South Bend
Athletic Training Coordinator
Beacon Bone & Joint Specialists
Associate Faculty EDUC U100 IU South Bend
Associate Faculty IU South Bend Vera Z. Dwyer College of Health Sciences: Sport and Exercises Science
Program
Office: 574-520-4283
Cell: 630-987-9687
Fax: 574-520-5231
Email: [email protected]
Kara Werner-Sanders

Nominated by
Kara Werner-Sanders from Beacon Health System/IU South Bend
E: [email protected] | W: 6309879687 | P: 6309879687

Peyton Lee is a teacher/athletic trainer at Fairfield High School (FHS). He has served as an athletic trainer for four years and has been teaching in the career prep program for two years. Peyton is the epitome of a secondary school athletic trainer. He has excelled in athletic training, community service, fundraising, and leadership/administration. As a teacher/athletic trainer, Peyton teaches five classes at Fairfield high school and provides healthcare to the high school and middle school. Peyton goes above and beyond. He frequently travels with all sports.
Peyton has a student aid program which allows him to shape future healthcare professionals. He gets so many applicants every year, he must turn some students away. He has a rigorous application process. Peyton provides the students with spirit packs, so they always look professional. He teaches his student aides the importance of prevention, first aid, and emergency care. For National Athletic Training Month, Peyton takes his HOSA students on a field trip to the University of Alabama to expose them to an accredited athletic training program; he is an alum of the program.
Peyton is very involved in the Fairfield community. He hosts a sports medicine camp every summer at FHS. This camp is open to all high school students; however, the demographic of the camp is predominately African American/Black. The two-day event encompasses training in first aid, taping, splinting, spine boarding, and CPR. Peyton has numerous health care professionals such as doctors, nurses, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and EMS share their experiences with the students. The students are given the opportunity to ask questions about different career fields.
Peyton is an active member of the Alabama Athletic Trainers Association (ALATA). He is a member of the ALATA Ethnic Diversity Advisory Committee (EDAC). While Peyton is not ethnically diverse, he is an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. He invited members of the ALATA EDAC committee to participate in the sport medicine camp.
Last year, Peyton was able to secure the Stop the Bleed program. Each student went through Stop the Bleed course and was gifted a Stop the Bleed kit. These kits were also provided to the athletic training volunteers. During football season, Peyton had to unfortunate opportunity to utilize his Stop the Bleed kit. A male was tailgating during a game and was shot in hip/butt from a stray bullet. Peyton was the only medical personnel in the vicinity. He had to activate EMS because they do not cover Fairfield High School games. Peyton packed the wound and the kept the man stable until EMS arrived approximately 20 minutes.
Peyton is well respected and known in the Fairfield community. He has grown so much as an athletic trainer. He is very open, empathetic, organized, and has great communication skills. He is not complacent. He always wants to get better. Peyton excels at fundraising. He has raised money for his athletic training program in creative ways such as calendar squares. This year, he was awarded the “One Classroom at a Time” grant for $1000 for excelling as a Career Tech Health Science Teacher. Peyton has done numerous media engagements and interviews involving athletic training and HOSA. He is not camera shy.
One of his biggest accomplishments was pursuing the Fairfield administration to knock down a wall in the athletic training facility so that he could expand the space to properly care for his patients. Additionally, Peyton was able to get his athletic training contract switched from Encore Sports Medicine to Drayer Physical Therapy Institute. Peyton advocated for himself and his patients.
Peyton recently completed his Master of Science degree in Sports Management from Jacksonville State. This year, Peyton was named the Assistant Athletic Director at Fairfield High School. This duty was previously held by the former football coach. Peyton applied and interviewed for the job. The principal at Fairfield honored him with the role on Feb. 10, 2022. This is a major accomplishment for a secondary school athletic trainer. As a leader in the profession of athletic training and within Fairfield’s athletic department, Peyton exudes the ability to multitask. In this short time, Peyton has been successful in all three roles.
In summary, I highly recommend Peyton Lee for the Training -Conditioning Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award. Peyton has excelled in athletic training, community service, advocacy, fundraising, and leadership/administration. Peyton truly deserves this honor. I have no doubt he will continue to do great things in his roles within the Fairfield Community and ALATA EDAC.

Nominated by
Ciara Taylor from Oak Mountain High School/ATI Physical Therapy
E: [email protected] | W: 205-682-5386 | P: 205-538-6069

Rebekah is very actively involved in our school athletic system. Not only does she are for the athletes injuries but she truly cares about their well-being and works well with the coaches and staff at PCHS. She administers their ImPACT testing and follows up with all types of injuries. However, she also includes the students as “team managers” that want to be involved but cannot physically participate. I have seen students with autism and Down’s Syndrome be an active part of the her “team”. It is heartwarming to see EVERYONE being a part of athletic community. Rebekah speaks with athletes, coaches and parents at any time to answer questions and promote the best care pan for that student athlete. Her goal is a safe and steady return to sports; she views the athletes as a “person” and not just an “athlete”. She has attended different non athletic school programs to support our athletes; some of our student have poor support systems and her care and compassion for them is evident.

Nominated by
Julie Koberstein from PCHS/NGSC
E: [email protected] | W: 18123852591 | P:

Has earned the respect of the staff that they work with and the student-athletes or patients they care for.
Rob has been a mainstay as a consistent, wholly-dedicated athletic trainer in our community’s high schools for more than two decades. Rob was promoted to Program Manager for Athletic Training and Sports Medicine in 2009. Rob has been tireless to promote the healthcare and well-being of student-athletes through athletic training and his team. Rob truly has demonstrated that athletic training is more than a day job. It’s a lifestyle. He is “at work” for athletes, parents, physicians and providers, coaches, administrators, the athletic training profession, and his colleagues, wherever he is and whenever the need calls. Rob is literally a 24-7-365 person. Even while hunting, one of his personal passions.
With a consistent drum beat and leadership over the past many years, Rob has accomplished shaping Columbus Community Hospital’s athletic training department from reaching a couple of high schools and community college to now to a staff of athletic trainers numbering seven. Athletic training services in our community today are provided by Columbus Community Hospital to our three high schools locally (one Class A, two Class C), each of their middle schools, our community college with a continually expanding athletic program, and six other secondary school systems in our rural communities within a regional radius of 40-45 miles from Columbus.
Elevate the athletic training profession at the secondary school level and maintain a presence in the secondary school setting. One could argue that Rob has spent his career elevating the athletic training profession at the secondary level. Since he graduated in 1995, he has been a face on the sidelines, the wrestling mats, and courtside for Columbus High School as well as other schools that he provides outreach services to. Through that time, he has been a consummate provider of athletic training services at state championship events and is a trusted confidante of members of the Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA). In 2021, Nebraska experienced our first and only fatality from a heat related condition. In 2022, Rob led the charge to bring the Nebraska State Athletic Trainers’ Association (NSATA), the NSAA, the Korey Stringer Institute, and other stakeholders together to take steps to help ensure that all that can be done, is being done to help prevent a tragedy like this from occurring again. Through all of this, the strongest representation of elevating the athletic training profession at the secondary school level is what Rob has done over the past nine years at Columbus Community Hospital as the Program Manager for their Athletic Training Program. In the past nine years, Rob has been the driver in developing what is looked at as a model program and a devoted team of professionals. The program has successfully added five athletic trainers during Rob’s time as program manager, each of whom provides services in the secondary setting. Rob has been a leader in demonstrating the value of athletic trainers to the schools that he works with and to the hospital that he works for. Schools that once received part time coverage now have full time services because they recognized the value of the athletic training coverage being provided by Rob and his team and wanted more. The hospital recognized the value of the athletic training services provided to those secondary schools and the surrounding communities and wanted to do more. Through it all there are now 11 high schools in rural Nebraska receiving athletic training services. This doesn’t happen if the hospital, schools, and communities don’t recognize the value of athletic trainers. This value, recognition and elevation of the profession in the eyes of parents, administrators and community members doesn’t happen without a devoted and committed team of professionals. That devoted team of professionals wouldn’t have come together without the vision and passion behind Rob’s leadership. Not only has Rob elevated the athletic training profession at the secondary school level in and around Columbus, Nebraska he has been a model for others to follow around the state through what he has done individually and what his team has done collectively.

Goes beyond their job description to support their student-athletes or patients
As Program Manager of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine at Columbus Community Hospital, providing public awareness, promotion and education about the athletic trainer’s role in their local community is a part of the job description. Part of Rob’s responsibility in his current role is to market the athletic training program at Columbus Community Hospital. However, even before that was part of his job description, Rob was doing this. To this day he continues to do far more than what his job calls for. In his various roles at the state, district and national level Rob is a spokesman for athletic training. He constantly looks for opportunities to place athletic trainers at the forefront of healthcare in the public eye. He wants parents to experience what athletic trainers can do- so he speaks to parent groups at schools and within the community. He wants other healthcare professionals to know the skills that athletic trainers possess so he leads interdisciplinary education events about concussion and the pre-hospital care for spine injuries in Columbus and the surrounding communities. He wants students to know about the profession, so he is a guest lecturer at the local community college and other high schools and universities around the state and region about the athletic training profession. Rob doesn’t just work at Columbus High School. Rob is a part of the Columbus Community. He has invested in the school and the community, and the community has invested in him and his family- two of his three children have graduated from Columbus High School and his youngest will soon be a part of the school system, as well. He is known and respected throughout the community and although that respect runs much deeper than his work, the gateway for much of this is the initial respect he earned as the athletic trainer for the children of many residents of the Columbus Community.
Rob provides an exemplary level of patient care. The student-athletes at Columbus High School and other high schools that Rob provides services for are not just his patients and his job isn’t just a job. Rob cares for all of these student-athletes like they were his own. The late-night calls, the Sunday trips to the High School just to check on a student and put the parents at ease. These are things that almost every athletic trainer does. Some because we want to, some because we feel we must. Rob does it because it’s the right thing to do for the patient. Rob’s longevity at the high school is a testament of his commitment to them and of the school’s commitment to him. Rob has been employed by several different organizations during his time in Columbus. Through it all, the school has remained committed to him. If he changed groups, the school changed with him. That doesn’t always happen and is a direct reflection of the value that the school places in the quality of care that they know their students receive.
Mentors other athletic trainers in terms of career development
See above:
He wants students to know about the profession, so he is a guest lecturer at the local community college and other high schools and universities around the state and region about the athletic training profession.
Rob has had many students follow in his footsteps. One of those including his own son!

Has taken action to advance the athletic training profession
Rob was a large force in crafting, promoting and passing concussion legislation when Nebraska’s LB 260 Concussion Awareness Act became statute in 2012 (Nebraska Statutes 71-9104 and 71- 9105). He developed Columbus Community Hospital’s concussion management protocol to include XLNTBrain, providing hundreds of baseline and post-event concussion assessment every year and implementing Return to Play protocols. He and his staff also collaborate with Columbus Community Hospital’s Concussion Management Clinic in Columbus, created to provide multidisciplinary services for athletes and adults from our region. Rob also has been instrumental in working with our schools’ educators, administrators and nurses to address the academic needs of concussed students, developing a model Return to Learn protocol that has been adopted by other health systems and schools with athletic trainers in our state. He has also led several provider and community presentations to educate our area about concussions and concussion management in the past several years. Rob’s efforts for quality healthcare coverage and safety for athletes onsite at Columbus High School where he primarily provides services gained the attention of the NSAA (Nebraska School Activities Association), resulting in CHS being awarded the state’s first Safe Sports Schools Award from NATA.
While the focus of this award is on what Rob has done at the Secondary School level, what Rob has accomplished personally and professionally can’t be overlooked. As can be seen through his list of accomplishments and leadership positions held, Rob is a shining example of what a secondary school athletic trainer can accomplish. He has a beautiful family, is devoted to his community and those with whom he works, and he will go through a wall for the athletic training profession. He has made many sacrifices to accomplish what he has professionally, but I don’t know that he has ever shared any regrets.
Rob prides himself in all that he has accomplished for, on behalf of, and while working as a secondary school athletic trainer. He is constantly looking for ways to advance what athletic trainers in secondary schools do and for ways to improve the access to care for the student-athletes at these secondary schools. The body of work that he has done rests upon his time in the secondary school setting but his passion has permeated the profession of athletic training and hopes that what he has done inspires others to do the same.

Prioritizes community service
Rob Contributes to his communities beyond their athletic environments. Rob should run for Mayor! As indicated before, Rob is invested in Columbus beyond athletics because Columbus is his home. He is involved in leadership at his church serving on the Board of Elders and he serves in the Columbus High School Booster Club.
Rob and many from his staff provide athletic training services to our area’s youth football program, of which he is director along with being director of athletic training services for USA Wrestling of Nebraska. Rob is also annually invited to provide athletic training coverage to NSAA State Championship Events. He is a member of the United Way’s Big Pals/Little Pals in Columbus.
Through his membership and involvement in elected leadership roles on the boards and executive teams of NSATA, the Mid-America Athletic Trainers Association (MAATA) and National Athletic Trainers’ Association, he has been recognized with honors and awards including 2009 NSATA Athletic Trainer of the Year, the 2014 NSAA’s Distinguished Service Award, inducted into the NSATA Athletic Trainer’s Hall of Fame in 2015, and 2020 inducted into the MAATA Hall of Fame. In 2017, Rob was awarded NATA’s Servant’s Heart Award for his exemplary level of service to student athletic health care in secondary schools, to his profession and to his community.

Nominated by
Tim Kwapnioski from Columbus Public Schools
E: [email protected] | W: 402.563.7050 | P: 402.640.9235

Robert Jones has been the AT at Queensbury for 17 years and has over 25 years of experience. He teaches physical education/health during the day and serves as the AT for over 70 teams throughout the year. He continuously promotes health and wellness activities, healthy lifestyle choices, and parent information nights.

Coach Jones has developed trust with our student-athletes, parents, and coaches to ensure that the care and treatment needed are first and foremost with our students. Bob’s teaching day begins at 7:30 am and ends at 2:00 pm. He then opens the training room to athletes until he is out on the fields and courts supervising games and providing care to both home and visiting athletes until all contests are over. For many nights, this is between 7pm and 9pm. On many occasions, his quick-to-respond and calm approach have saved student-athletes, spectators, and officials from further injury or illness.

Coach Jones started an Athletic Training class at our high school that earns students SUNY College credit. Students are exposed to many different sports-medicine-related occupations and participate in an athletic training practicum. We now have several students who are pursuing athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other related fields in college.

Bob Jones is one of the greatest assets we have within our entire 500-plus employee staff. His knowledge, compassion and care for everyone who comes onto our campus are well known. I can not accurately describe the number of compliments and emails of appreciation I have received over the years. I would not be able to complete the duties I have as an athletic administrator if it were not for the efforts of Bob Jones .

Nominated by
Richard S Keys from Queensbury UFSD
E: [email protected] | W: 15188245687 | P: 5187965980

Ross, after many years as our Head Athletic Trainer assumed the additional duties of Associate Athlete Director which he has been doing for 10 years. in his role as A.D. he is directly responsible for all scheduling, hiring and budgeting for half of the schools sport offerings in the high school. Again, he is still our Head Athletic Trainer and manages that entire staff and department as well. Frankly, it is because he can, that he manages both jobs. He is truly unique in my opinion, in his ability to excel at all these responsibilities.
In both roles, he goes above and beyond what is required in terms of relating to student-athlete coaches, teachers, parents and administrators and his fellow athletic trainers. He is a superior relationship person because he is such a genuine person. He always is one step ahead in all of his roles because he anticipates by combining an uncanny knowledge of what has happened and what might happen. He cares deeply for all his constituent groups and fights hard for all of them. He has been blessed with the gift of common sense from his upbringing that he uses in all of his roles which includes being the father to 3 young sons.
He has a gift for detail, including all the nuances of the technology age which he uses to help him perform his job better and serve all the people he serves. He takes great pride in his work, no matter what it is and it is a lot.
On the Athletic Training side he uses all his years of experience and his vast array of contacts( along with his terrific people skills) in the medical professional community( many of whom are parents in our school) to provide exceptional care for our student body who are all required to participate in athletics ( they cannot graduate if the do not participate). In addition, his relational ability has aided him to assist the launching of many an outstanding young athletic trainer by first demonstrating what great care is and what it looks like in practice.
He is a great friend and trusted confidant to so many in our school community that it makes you tired jus thinking about it.
He has a terrific ability to remember to the names of everyone he meets, it is truly astonishing to someone who is so terrible at it and I think that is at the heart of all the success in all he does. He makes a personal connection to people that creates trust and allows him develop personal relationships and make such a lasting positive impression. Please contact me if I can provide more detail to my somewhat rambling narrative here.
Very Truly Yours,
Dan MacLean
Executive Director of Athletics
Detroit Country Day School.

Nominated by
Dan MacLean from Detroit Country Day School
E: [email protected] | W: (248) 430-1673 | P: (248)5145023

Ryan started with us in the middle of a pandemic and the middle of gymnastics season. She did an outstanding job handling both and raised the standard of care for her student-athletes. She’s earned the respect of the student-athletes, AT staff, coaches and administration. She mentors several AT students and is currently working on her DAT degree.

Nominated by
Kevin Addison from Temple University
E: [email protected] | W: 8034679652 | P:

Ryan started with us in the middle of a pandemic and the middle of gymnastics season. She did an outstanding job handling both and raised the standard of care for her student-athletes. She’s earned the respect of the student-athletes, AT staff, coaches and administration. She mentors several AT students and is currently working on her DAT degree.

Nominated by
Kevin Addison from Temple University
E: [email protected] | W: 8034679652 | P:

Since coming on board at Lindale ISD, Coach Wilhelm has become a favorite among players and coaches alike. His attitude constantly exudes positivity. His first-to-work/last-to-leave work ethic is it’s own testament to his willingness to complete his job to the best ability in the industry. Ryan has built personal relationships, not only with student-athletes and coaches, but our administration within the school district, and with parents of players who come to him with question after questions. Ryan’s staff works well together, and that is in part mostly to his leadership in the training room, the office, and on the field of play. Ryan finds time outside of work to help coach his kid’s youth teams, and spend as much time with family as he can; not giving priority to any one thing, but making sure his family knows he is still prioritizing their time, while making sure student-athletes, coaches, and parents feel like he is not overlooking any issue.

Side note: Coach Wilhelm has built such a relationship, that he was asked to go on a Division I recruiting trip to Alabama University back in November 2022.

Coach Wilhelp doesn’t do what he does for notice or accolades, but he is definitely deserving of all the awards and recognition that he does get.

Nominated by
Justin Mason from Lindale ISD
E: [email protected] | W: 9038814050 | P: 9036817447

Samantha Cherry is without a doubt one of the finest additions to the staff at Herricks High School. Ms. Cherry joined us during a very challenging time; we were in the midst of the COVID pandemic. The moment she entered the doors of Herricks High School, Samantha’s impact was felt! This individual immediately developed positive relationships with the students, staff and parents of the Herricks community. Ms. Cherry quickly learned, followed and assisted in the following of the DOH and the Herricks School District COVID guidelines.
This person always goes above and beyond her daily duties. Students will often seek Ms. Cherry for medical and non-medical concerns. It is a rare moment that Samantha is not tending to a student, consulting with a coach or updating a parent on thier child’s progress.
Samantha’s professionalism and work ethic are excellent and valuable to the Herricks School District. Ms. Cherry checks in with the Health Office, the Nurse and the District Athletic Director (me) on a regular basis; all accident/injury reports are completed in a timely fashion and followed up on; she assists in the rehabilitation process; she has administered various fitness related activities for our sports teams;Return to Play (RTP) procedures are carefully administered and documented-both high school and middle school; all contests are covered; Ms. Cherry is always accessible to our students and coaches; they always rely on her to tend to their every need.
Samantha Cherry continues to keep up to date in her profession, attending confreneces and consulting with her colleagues. This individual has invited other new and veteran Athletic Trainers to attend a Herricks football game to afford them the opportunity to experience actual Herricks game experience.
Samantha has done a wonderful job of connecting Herricks High School to Northwell Health Athletic Training services and Northwell Hospital for the various offerings they provide to our students; our students in turn have benefitted from this.

Simply put; our kids truly love her. Her kind and caring manner complement her professionalism. Samantha was actually asked to attend the High School prom! She is without a doubt a favorite of the student-body. Parents love her as well. The parent of a struggling student-athlete requested to have her child connect with Ms. Cherry when he becomes anxious, because “My son has the utmost respect for Ms. Cherry.” Samantha Cherry is a tremendous asset to the kids of Herricks High School; I am thrilled to have her working with our kids and we put our complete trust in her as the Head Athletic Trainer of Herricks high School.
Samantha Cherry is, without a doubt, very desreving of the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer award.

Nominated by
Jim Petricca from Herricks High School
E: [email protected] | W: 516-305-8769 | P: 516-807-0491

Sami is employed through IRG, and due to the national shortage has done a phenominal job of juggling coverage at her clinic, with Everett Community College and Everett High School. She communicates weekly with her schedule (as it is always changing) and makes time every day to work with our athletes who are injured or recovering from injury. She coordinates care with our team physician through Seattle Children’s hospital, and if there is ever a conflict in coverage, she has found replacements so that we are never left without an athletic trainer at our athletic events. On average we have about 90 home contests a year with our different sports and she has either covered herself or arranged coverage for all of them in addition to office hours in our training room on campus.

Nominated by
Garet Studer from Everett Community College
E: [email protected] | W: 425-388-9328 | P:

Sami has come to EHS to provide ATC services as a contracted Employee for IRG. She not only serves our Athletes and the Clinic but also contracts for our local Community College, Everett CC. They way she balances all of our needs with the highest level of service has been incredible. I have worked with many Athletic trainers both at the high school and college levels and Sami is among the best I’ve seen in her customer service, her quick ability to form rapport with coaches, athletes and families, and her willingness to support our other programs at all times. She was quick to take on students in training and provide them with a mentorship opportunity that their sports medicine class has been longing for. The joy that she has brought to the students of EHS who have the opportunity to intern and be mentored by Sami is visible.

Sami is new to our area from out of state and came into a tight knit community and immediately made it her home. She cares for each student athlete as her number one priority and the families are so grateful to have someone caring so greatly for their athlete with care that they have never been able to seek for their athlete due to financial hardship. I can’t say enough about Sami and her deserving this award.

Dani Mundell
District Director of Athletics

Nominated by
Dani Mundell from Everett Public Schools
E: [email protected] | W: 4253854269 | P:

Sandra Miyasaki has been a trainer at Aiea High School since 1993 (30 years) and I have been the head football coach for 31 years. Sandra has always been great with our players and players in other sports. She is kind, gentle, and truly cares about the well being of our student/athlete. She also gets along well with coaches from all of the team sports at Aiea High School. We have two trainers now, but prior to that, maybe 8 years ago, it was only Sandra who covered all of the school sports and she did a great job by herself too. Now she has Nate to assist her with all the sports teams and she has helped and mentored him, to transition to out school. Sandra has also helped me and other coaches when we go injured during practices. I guess the older I get, more little injuries occur. I appreciate all that Sandra has done for our football program and myself as a coach. Thank you.

Nominated by
Wendell Say from Aiea High School
E: [email protected] | W: 808 305-6534 | P: 808 429-9734

LAT Sara Smith is greatly respected by all staff and student-athletes at Muskego High School for many reasons. Numerous student-athletes of today feel hesitant to reach out to an athletic trainer for help because they feel that they do not ‘know’ the trainer. Upon Sara’s arrival at MHS in 2018, she immediately began changing that culture. She is visible in hallways before and after hours and is always seeking opportunities to learn more about the student-athlete as a person rather than “just work.” She has created an environment in which student-athletes feel comfortable reporting injuries to her and following her advice on rehabilitation measures to get them back into competition.

Sara goes above and beyond her job description to support student-athletes by making herself available at all hours. She checks in with student-athletes on weekends, holidays, and outside of her structured working hours. Sara also navigates family relationship constructs professionally and ensures that her communication is top-notch. She is constantly in contact with student-athletes, their parents or guardians, and coaches to ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to injury prevention, injuries, treatment and rehabilitation.

Sara has had the opportunity to mentor numerous current and future athletic trainers in her profession. Sara mentors 2 or 3 undergraduate students every year, helping them learn to give excellent care and support to student athletes. This opportunity is invaluable for these students as they get to experience the profession in a real world setting outside classrooms and clinics. Even her current colleague, Jake Gray, appreciated learning from her during his first year at Muskego.

Sara has been able to take action in the advancement of the athletic training profession by advocating for having sufficient medical staffing available to schools in Wisconsin. Athletic programs with enough trainers have a safer and better opportunity to excel in competition – both for the individual athletes as well as for the team. Sara’s work in mentoring undergraduate students is a crucial part of her passion, because those students are able to experience high school athletics and develop a love for the specific job setting. Sara also takes on the responsibility of scheduling athletic trainers from Ascension to specific events and days at nearby schools in need, all to ensure that every program has the presence they need to compete safely.

Sara prioritizes her Muskego community by encouraging the profession to build relationships with students at younger levels in order to create familiarity when they are older. Sara helped Ascension enter the Muskego-Norway School District first through Muskego’s Youth Football program. Now at the high school level, Sara continues to make priority the relationships with the athletes in her school as well as the wider community.

Nominated by
Ryan McMillen from Muskego High School
E: [email protected] | W: (608) 712-5227 | P:

Sara has gone out of her way to help all of our student athletes each and everyday. This year she has stepped out of the athletic realm and helped our HOSA club. She went out of her way to find supplies and sponsorships to assist this group in their health profession endeavors. Sara knows the work force of health care positions needs the next generation to step up and enter the field, as society depends on it. Please consider Sara for this award as she is a rock star in our community!

Nominated by
Ryan McMillen from Muskego High School
E: [email protected] | W: 12629711790 x4517 | P:

Sarah has recently taken a maternity leave. While at Eastern, she worked up to her due date covering each sport offered as well as practices. Sarah also has taught 2 classes throughout the day as part of our pathways for graduation. Each class dealt with medical/health field. She has a great relationship with our student/athletes and is trusted by our parents.

Nominated by
Scott Newcomb from Eastern High School
E: [email protected] | W: 8129673931 | P: 8128962499

Scott is the greatest of all time. He mentors young, old athletic trainers, students athletic trainers and even student athletes. He takes pride in his craft and is a valuable resource to myself among others. I can’t express how much it has meant to work with him at games and in overall life.
He is long overdue on an award for his life achievements…. However I couldn’t see someone more deserving than Scott.
Norman North is lucky to have such an amazing AT onboard.
Respectfully,
Bryan Smith ATC/LAT – Mercy Sports Medicine/Piedmont High School

Nominated by
Bryan J Smith from Piedmont High School – Mercy Sports Medicine
E: [email protected] | W: 17852507597 | P: 17852507597

Scott Braid became our interim head athletic trainer prior to COVID, and showed exemplary leadership during that time. Braid was a key part of the entire university’s COVID response team, and helped develop and implement a return to play program that allowed safe and engaging training to take place as early as 2020. Braid had the interim tag removed in 2021, and since then has expanded and enhanced the athletic training department into a true sports medicine program, including adding sports psychology and mental wellness professionals, programming in sports nutrition, and overseeing strength and conditioning for all teams. In 2022 Braid collaborated with the SSU Center for Inclusive Excellence to develop and implement Viking Pride Days to show allyship and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community at home games. Braid’s focus on student-athlete experience and humility and positive attitude have helped transform the sports medicine facility into a welcoming and safe place where student-athletes and coaches know they will receive the best possible care, support, and counsel. As a trusted and respected leader in the athletics department and SSU community, Braid was elevated to Assistant Director of Athletics for Student-Athlete Wellness in December of 2022.

Nominated by
Nicolle Wood from Salem State University
E: [email protected] | W: +19784905662 | P: 9784905662

Everyone can care for their athletes, but Sely sacrifices her time to make sure her athletes get the best possible care, whenever needed. The athletes are her number one priority – not her status, pay, or any other surface-level achievement. In fact, she may not even be thrilled to get nominated and receive an award (should that happen).

Her incredible relationship-building skills and “hard-nosed” but empathetic professional persona encourages athletes to pursue getting into treatment and getting back onto the field as quickly and safely as possible.

She is constantly in pursuit of bettering herself educationally in order to be able to serve her athletes as best as she can and works to serve others first before herself.

Sely Patrizio would be the best individual to receive this award because she embodies what everyone else struggles to pursue as an athletic trainer.

Nominated by
Aaron Dugger from In Extremis Performance
E: [email protected] | W: 9728320380 | P:

Shannon has worked at Boulder HS for over 20 years and is not only a athletic trainner but works as a game manager to ensure that all Soccer and Basketball run smooth. All of the students love her. She is the breath of fresh air at Boulder HS. She runs a program called March maddness and they raise money for students without medical insurance.

Nominated by
Jenni Bernstein from Boulder HS
E: [email protected] | W: 720-561-5747 | P: 3037099471

Shannon is the glue for Boulder High athletics. Beyond helping student athletes’ physical needs, she is always available to chat and many athletes enjoy just hanging out in her office. She also runs all of the Boulder High Athletics social media accounts, and really keeps up with what is going on with each team. Shannon is also one of the most senior athletic trainers in the area and is a resource for those that are less experienced.

Nominated by
Courtney Geib from Boulder High School
E: [email protected] | W: 303-898-9260 | P:

When it comes to the respect that Shannon has earned with not only the coaching and administration staff, her players absolutely love her! She constantly goes above and beyond the call of duty as an athletic trainer and is an incredible mentor to her students. She has a motherly vibe as she cares about the person, not just the student or the success of the athlete. She cares beyond words and each athlete that comes through her doors feels that love. As for community service, career development, and expanding her professional career, her body of work speaks for itself. She mentors numerous other athletic trainers, is constantly working with CU med to better our options and treatments, and is a staple in the community. She organizes, hosts, and recruits teams and businesses in the area for her May Madness tournament. The proceeds of this tournament goes towards underprivileged schools in the district to provide some sort of athletic training to their athletes that might otherwise not have access to care. She is actively providing care to people she cannot even see. Shannon embodies everything that this award is and would be a complete miss to not recognize her and her accomplishments over the years. A true pillar of support and strength in our school and someone that all of our athletes and coaches love. She lights up a room when she enters and no one ever leaves not knowing how good a care they received. I cannot recommend Shannon enough to receive this award. I appreciate your consideration.

Nominated by
Matthew Smith from Boulder High School
E: [email protected] | W: 3032494479 | P:

Shawn Urton better designated as Doc Urton has worked with AISD for twenty-eight years, no one could have known the major impact that this trainer and educator would have on all aspects of our community. Doc has influenced and assisted multiple generations of students, coaches, and community
members in his time as an Athletic Trainer. I can personally attest that Doc has had an impact on my own family, and the girls’ basketball program, along with assisting all Caprock high school students when any emergency situation happens. I have witnessed Doc Urton sprint from a softball field to the track behind our AC because we had a junior high kid break his leg. Anytime a student or athlete is injured he is always there to calm them and get them the appropriate medical treatment. Doc Urton will always go above and beyond for our athletes to ensure that they are ready to perform when we need them in games. Doc Urton is always on top of our student’s health and cares
deeply about getting them healthy. No one puts in as much time for our students and coaches as Doc Urton, he shows up before practice starts and does not leave till practice is over, this includes holidays,
weekends, and summers before school even starts. Doc Urton will also show up to coaches’ and student houses just to make sure that no emergency exists or to evaluate the situation to put all at ease, he defiantly goes above and beyond his required duties with the staff and students here at Caprock High School. I want to express my gratitude for how hard Doc Urton has worked for my program and the students of Caprock High School. He has sacrificed lots of his time to help our community and school, and there is no better way for this than to nominate him for such a prestigious award as the Most Valuable Trainer Award because he is one of the best I have ever had the privilege to work with.
Shawn Urton has left a legacy at Caprock High, and he will continue to do so until the day he decides to leave Caprock. Please consider this great man, father, trainer, teacher, and overall outstanding person to represent AISD.

Nominated by
David Ray Smiley from Caprock High School/Amarillo ISD
E: [email protected] | W: 8063262200 | P: 8066811579

Spencer has been with our school now for over three years. He is an excellent athletic trainer and provides wonderful care of our athletes. He is one of the most professional and respectful people on the entire school staff. His number one goal is for the care, well being, and mental health of our student athletes. He is always willing to go the extra mile to help our kids in any way he can. Below I will list some of the ways he does this.
1. Spencer typically brings on 5-6 students trainers every year. He mentors these kids in more than just athletic training. He meets with them weekly asking how they are doing in school and out of school. He checks their grades bi-weekly and makes sure they are in a good place both mentally and physically. He empowers them to be their own individual, but at the same time teaching them how to work in cohesive team environment. He has guidelines they must follow or their can punishment if they are not.
2. Spencer will also consult with any faculty member here at SCHS. If a staff member is having a physical issue, Spencer will meet with them and discuss treatment options he could help with or point in the right direction. He will set up appointments and recommend places for them to go. This is not necessarily part of his job description, but he feels our whole school is a community and that Smoky Bears are equal.
3. Spencer also has his athletic trainer students participate in community service activities. They work bi-annually at physical days for our student athletes. Not just at our school, but at other schools in our county. He then encourages them to get involved in other school activities and to become involved as many ways as they can in the community.
4. Spencer also mentors other athletic trainers in our county. He is constantly communicating with them on how they are doing and if they need anything. He also meets with them periodically to discuss ways they can improve in their profession. He also does this own his time, seeking ways to become a better and more advanced athletic trainer. Trying to find ways that he can help better take care of our student athletes.
Spencer is a top notch athletic trainer, but more than that he is an outstanding person. His love and care for his profession and this school is next level.

Nominated by
Bryan Atchley from Sevier County High School
E: [email protected] | W: 865-453-5525 | P:

Staci epitomizes the definition of an exemplary Athletic Trainer.
She is knowledgeable, compassionate and deliberate in her approach. She is very sensitive to student-athletes and their families in crisis situations. She handles difficult situations with empathy and understanding. Staci is the most popular person in our school district because of her kind demeanor and friendly personality. Many of our student-athletes say in touch with Staci after graduation. She contributes to the improvement of our athletic department in many ways. Staci was part of our NIAAA National Quality Program Accreditation Team. Our school district is the only high school in the state of Ohio to earn this award. Staci’s contribution played a significant role in our achievement. Staci has mentored several students from Kent State University. She exceeds the necessary and required Professional Development Standards for Athletic Trainers. She attends fundraisers sponsored by our athletic teams and supports all of our programs. Staci Bohannon is an excellent and deserving candidate for Most Valuable Athletic Trainer!

Nominated by
Randy Tevepaugh from Streetsboro High School
E: [email protected] | W: 330-626-4902 | P: 440-759-9870

Stacy Garceau is the epitome of a certified athletic trainer and her approach to the students she cares for. She has been with us at East Catholic for 10 years. Through that time she has helped numerous students, teams, coaches and our overall school tremendously. She works long hours, as common in athletics, but never complains when a time or date changes due to weather, etc. She coordinates other trainers in the area for her company, Integrated Rehabilitation Services as well so she is a leader in the athletic training community even beyond our school.
Stacy assists with teaching CPR, First Aid, and AED usage to our coaches before every season. She also took on the task of certifying our teachers in the building this year as well. She has helped us transition to an online form of medical clearance as well, which was a challenge. She’s helped produce weight room programs for teams, attends fundraising events, assists with orders, and is key in prevention of injury work as well with our teams. She’s always up for new and improved ways to service or athletes!
I worked in college athletics before my time here at East Catholic and I can say she is second to none. People choose to work in different areas of athletic training or rehab and she has chosen the high school setting as her purpose. We are so lucky and thrilled to have Stacy here and be that calming voice for our Eagles. I cannot say enough about Stacy and the work she does so please giver her a chance at this award, she deserves it and more! – Jon Dahlquist (Dean of Wellness & Athletics)

Nominated by
Jon Dahlquist from East Catholic High School
E: [email protected] | W: 8606478627 | P: 443.388.6735

As a first year AD in the Syosset Central High School District, I knew I had a strong athletic trainer to rely on, but Mr. Tozer is so much more than an athletic trainer to our students and community. He is the go to guy for all athletic issues that relate to our students physical and social/emotional needs. He oversees the return to play protocol for our entire district (k-12) and is heavily involved with our wellness committee. His influence on his students and his advocacy for his profession has prompted the District to expand our Athletic Training Program by hiring a second athletic trainer to make sure all of our athletic teams have the appropriate coverage. Our second athletic trainer is one of his former athletes, that he obviously made a strong impression on. He has done all of this while holding a second full time job as a health educator at our high school teaching both health and principles of athletic training. So many of our students (not just athletes) respect and admire Mr. Tozer that many of them go on to pursue careers in the medical field, many hoping to become trainers like him. Most of the schools in our area of NY, hire part time trainers or contract with an outside service. Mr. Tozer has met with many school districts and trainers advocating for them to consider our model of teacher/trainer as the level of service is exceptional. He has developed many integral professional relationships that students who suffer an injury can quickly be seen by the appropriate medical doctors and works with these doctors to rehab our students to get them back on the fields safely. He’s affectionately knows as “Tozer” to our students and our parents, and it’s safe to say he is them most known man in our District. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any further assistance as you try to identify and acknowledge a person who is deserving of this honor (631) 219-1265. I am confident that Steve Tozer is a person you would want to consider. In addition to his numerous responsibilities here at Syosset, he his the father of two high school age daughters and is married to one of my physical education teachers (Terri). Over the past year, Terri has been battling breast cancer, and Steve has been the rock for his girls while still ensuring the student-athletes are well taken care of. I would also recommend reaching out to Mr. Drew Cronin, my predecessor who recently retired. Mr. Cronin could elaborate much more on Steve’s abilities and his many skills as a trainer, educator, coach, mentor, and friend. Drew can be reached at (631) 827-8256

Nominated by
Scott Stueber from Syosset High School
E: [email protected] | W: 516-364-5749 | P: 631-219-1265

Our Athletic Trainer Mr.Lough is by far the best athletic trainer i’ve ever been around. He is efficient and takes so much pride in his work. Mr.Lough has inspired me to want to go into the Athletic Training field, and he is one of the best role models at Ripley High school. He goes above and beyond and does so much more for Ripley High school than what meets the eye. You can always count on him to be there at events ,and as an Athlete I feel so much safer on the field when he is there. If anybody deserves to be nominated, it’s Mr.Lough.

Nominated by
Cassidy Cummings from Ripley High school
E: [email protected] | W: 3043737747 | P: 3043737747

Our Athletic Trainer Mr.Lough is by far the best athletic trainer i’ve ever been around. He is efficient and takes so much pride in his work. Mr.Lough has inspired me to want to go into the Athletic Training field, and he is one of the best role models at Ripley High school. He goes above and beyond and does so much more for Ripley High school than what meets the eye. You can always count on him to be there at events ,and as an Athlete I feel so much safer on the field when he is there. If anybody deserves to be nominated, it’s Mr.Lough.

Nominated by
Cassidy Cummings from Ripley High school
E: [email protected] | W: 3043737747 | P: 3043737747

Steve currently serves as the Athletic Trainer for Ripley High School, where he has been for the past 17 years. He covers all athletic events for the high school including sectional and regional events. He also provides services to the feeder middle school. Recently, the neighboring high school was unable to fill the athletic trainer vacancy for football season, so Steve agreed to help and was able to provide coverage for both schools. He also works with Marshall University Sports Medicine Institute in Athletic Training providing coverage for Eastern Regional Cup Soccer Tournament, WSAZ Wrestling
Tournaments, and other events for local high schools. For the last 15 years he has also been the head
ATC and medical overseer for the WV North South Football Classic. He was selected as the WVATA
Athletic Trainer of the year in 2012 and 2015. Ripley High School has also been selected as a First Team Safe School for the National Athletic Trainers Association from 2014-2017, 2017-2020, 2020-2023. Only a select few schools in the state of West Virginia have received this distinguished award.
Steve has also been given the opportunity to provide educational lectures to the leaders and coaches of several youth football and baseball leagues in his community regarding sports injuries, safety protocols, and the use of Wet Bulb Globe Thermometers. Safety is the number one priority for our youth in sports, so it is important that coaches know how to provide a safe environment while teaching the fundamentals of the game.

Nominated by
Cindy Daniels from WVSSAC
E: [email protected] | W: 304-485-5494 | P:

Tania is completely dedicated to the students of MVRHS. She truly cares about the pre-habilitation, training and re-habilitation of our athletes. Her personality and friendliness when working with her sets the tone for the athletic department.

Nominated by
Gary Simmons from Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School
E: [email protected] | W: 5089898154 | P:

Has earned the respect of the staff that they work with and the student-athletes or patients they care for:
– Tanya makes it a point to build a positive relationship with all coaches by attending their practices, following up with them, and being visible in her office and at games. If we have an athletic event happening, she is on campus. She is always available for questions or to help all our teams in any way. She is always talking with our athletes and makes it a point to check in with visiting coaches and athletes.

Goes beyond their job description to support their student-athletes or patients
– Tanya is often available outside her posted office hours and responses to text messages and calls at all times from coaches and parents. She works to make sure injured athletes can be seen as quickly as possible by the team doctors or at Penn State Health. Tanya also helps students with their injury rehabs and provides important advice about proper training programs and nutritional aspects of being an athlete.

Mentors other athletic trainers in terms of career development
– Tanya serves as a resource for Lebanon Valley College to place students to complete their on the job hours. She will come in early to meet with these students and review different scenarios to make sure they are having a valuable experience that is helping prepare them to be an athletic trainer in the future. She has also served as a resource for high school students to complete a job shadow, which is a requirement for graduation. This gives HS students a glimpse at a day in the life of an athletic trainer.

Has taken action to advance the athletic training profession
– Tanya has proactivity working with the athletic department to create opportunities to provide rehab to injured athletes in the training room, allowing them to complete their rehab at school instead of having to travel to a site off campus. She has budgeted and has been able to purchase the necessary equipment to provide these services without having a major impact on the athletic budget. This has received a lot of positive feedback from our parents.

Prioritizes community service
– Tanya is always willing to donate her time to many different school events that our outside her duties. We host a major “mini-thon” event and Tanya is always willing to help get medical supplies ready, donate her time, and just help in any way needed. We also host 5K and other community-related events and they can always count on Tanya to help in any way needed.

Nominated by
Tommy Long from Annville-Cleona S.D.
E: [email protected] | W: 7178677700 | P: 7176796528

Tara has been our trainer for the last couple of years. Not a day goes by that Tara does not put the needs of her athletes before hers. She makes sure she is available to all athletes . She will be on one end of campus and the other end of campus at the drop of a dime. She will go out of her way to give athletes advice and tips to help strengthen their muscles and/or joints. While participating in these extremely intense high schools sports.
Not only is Tara a great athletic trainer, she is an amazing teacher. She is extremely patient with her athletic trainers “in training.” She makes sure they are involved in all aspects to experience first hand what it takes to be a great trainer.

Nominated by
Melissa Wilson from Paradise honors high school
E: [email protected] | W: 6234557400 | P:

Taylor is the backbone of our Athletic Department. She currently enters her 5th year at Ritenour High School and continues to grow her craft and awareness of sports medicine to our teams and community. Taylor is a self-starter and takes initiative to constantly improve things. She is always here for our students outside of normal hours helping ensure our kids are healthy and return to play when ready. Taylor also helps out by providing coverage for our junior programs along with starting a sports medicine club to engage students into the profession. She is constantly building relationships with students, staff, and parents and has solidified her value to the district. Taylor is our first line of defense and is always proactive in taking on more responsibility. Without her passion on campus every day it would be impossible to have the current growth and improvement in our department, staff, and kids. Her connection to stakeholders across multiple levels makes her priceless to Husky Nation.

Nominated by
Lee Laskowski from Ritenour High School
E: [email protected] | W: 314.493.6136 | P: 573.268.1566

Tiffany is a tireless worker, covering all of our sports. She is willing to come in on her own time to evaluate athletes or students. Very organized and efficient.

Nominated by
Steven Kueter from OGorman High School
E: [email protected] | W: 6052014005 | P: 6052014005

Tiffany is a the current Head Athletic Trainer at Grapevine High School and has been for the last 4 years. During this time, Tiffany has put on a display of top tier abilities within the athletic training realm and has become a known commodity to the parents, coaches and administration of Grapevine High School, never hesitating to reach out to her with questions or situations that need to be solved. Coaches will attest to the fact that after injuries occur, due to her strong rehabilitative knowledge, that athletes return to the field quickly. Since her arrival to Grapevine High School, Tiffany has put a focus on growing the athletic training program. Her student athletic training program averages anywhere from 15-20 kids per year and Tiffany is quick to teach and explain to students with questions or when they see something of interest in the athletic training room or game field. Also under her watch, Grapevine High School has become a NATA Safe School. As her time at Grapevine has gone on, she’s been given the opportunities to handle more responsibilities and thrived in those roles, such as currently being the head of football operations for the high schools football program. Within this role, she’s only further expanded her relationship with parents within the community. Not only does she help to coordinate meals and beverages for student athletes of all levels, but she also has helped to provide student athletes with community service opportunities, such as this year’s team taking part in Compass Church’s Meal Marathon. All in all, Tiffany’s impact on Grapevine High School and the Grapevine community as a whole can be found everywhere. She’s well respected, trusted with any task and is always in search of ways to make the experience of high school sports better for student athletes, along with the day to day work of student health within the athletic training room. I believe she would be an excellent candidate for the 11th annual Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award, as would Grapevine High School and the Grapevine community as well.

Nominated by
Kamden Phillips from Decatur High School/Fit-N-Wise
E: [email protected] | W: 940-210-2130 | P: 940-210-2130

Timothy Doane is a certified and licensed athletic trainer who has served the student-athletes at Lehigh University since 1997. After moving through the ranks, Tim currently serves as the Assistant Athletic Director & Director of Sports Medicine for Lehigh University. With a goal of promoting the utmost quality of health care for all student-athletes as an allied health profession within Lehigh Athletics and the Patriot League, Tim keeps his department focused on objectives to ensure the physical, mental, emotional, and educational wellbeing for all Lehigh student-athletes. Their model program and their We Care Philosophy are integral components to ensure all Lehigh student-athletes’ have a positive experience during their tenure as a student-athlete at Lehigh.

In the last 2 years, Tim has been a key member of various Lehigh University COVID response teams to establish the policies and procedures aiding management of this most complex condition. Tim serves as the Co-Chair of the Athletics’ COVID Steering Committee. In this role he has oversight for 12 working groups (protocols, facility logistics, budgets, returning to sport safely, etc.) of varying athletic staff to develop and manage Lehigh’s COVID management plan – all from scratch! While that role is for the department, Tim is also the representative on behalf of athletics on a larger scale with Lehigh University.

For his staff, Tim has championed for key issues such as balance of lifestyle and increases in pay scales while also serving key roles within the athletics administration.

In support of student athletes, Tim has been integral to Lehigh Sports Medicine’s presence in media. A key component to care in this day in age is “technology”. With a presence on YouTube and other media, Tim initiated the development of education videos to assist athlete care, especially in their off seasons. The peroneal stretch video posted by Lehigh Sports Medicine on YouTube has had more than 72K hits to date with total YouTube video hits being greater than 131K!

One other consistent thread in Lehigh Sports Medicine is their department’s support of local student athletic training interns. Lehigh sports medicine receives interns from local athletic training programs and Tim has personally mentored many students from various educational programs in the Lehigh Valley area – Moravian College, East Stroudsburg University, West Chester University, Lock Haven University and LIU Brooklyn.

Professionally, Tim has previously served on the PATS board as well as fostering CEU opportunities and collaboration among Patriot League certified athletic trainer’s. Tim has represented Lehigh sports medicine at patriot league meetings esp. related to topics of safe return to sports participation as well as best practices for conducting a league schedule.

Tim has also been a speaker at various NATA AME, PATS and Patriot League CEU events throughout his years in the athletic training profession.

Tim has earned the respect of colleagues, co-workers and student-athletes alike through his professional skill, hard work and dedication to the profession that drives his practice. Due to all of the above factors, it is with great pride that I would nominate Tim Doane for the Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award through Training & Conditioning.

Nominated by
Jennifer Doane from Advantage Nutrition & Wellness
E: [email protected] | W: 6103920084 | P: 610920084

Tony is not a full time trainer at our school. He works part-time as a trainer with his full time job working for Riddell. Even with the amount of time it takes for him to travel around the state for Riddell, he still finds time to be at our place at least 2 times a week and on game nights. He’s not required, nor paid, to be here during the week, but he goes above and beyond to be here especially when we have players that need extra attention with injury recovery. He makes sure that our football managers are well trained in practice responsibilities and game day responsibilities. His efforts to help our kids and to be there when needed by balancing his other responsibilities is to be commended. Not sure what we’d do without him.

Nominated by
Jeff Craig from Blanchard High school
E: [email protected] | W: 4054853392 | P:

Tyler Golden has been a hugh asset to Fluvanna County High School and our athletic dept. From the day he waled in the school as an assistant trainer he has been more than willing to jump in and be a part of the Athletic dept. He has since gotten a teahing certificate to teach, taking on Athletic Training classes. He has also started an internship process as well as working to cover all games. Tyler is always here and continues to go above and beyond all expecations. I certainly find him worthy of this award.

Nominated by
Scott Morris from Fluvanna County High School
E: [email protected] | W: 4349960127 | P:

Tyler or TK is not only a trainer but also a mentor and friend to our student athletes. He is one of their biggest fans who puts in countless hours to both support these athletes and help them stay healthy.

Nominated by
John Hancock from West Branch Local School District
E: [email protected] | W: 3304283873 | P:

Tyler joined our staff in December of 2021 and hit the ground running. Moving to and working in an island community is no easy task. Tyler moved to Nantucket from Connecticut, after five years at Orville H. Platt High School, in the middle of a winter athletic season and got started right away working with our student-athletes and coaches. Wiithin a few days, anyone who watched his interactions would’ve thought he has known our athletes for years. Our kids look up to him as not only an athletic trainer but also a member of the U.S. Army Reserve. Tyler is a combat medic in the Army Reserves. This also gives him a unique background and knowledge base that not many other athletic trainers would have. Tyler carries himself as professional as you would imagine.

Tyler continues to find new ways to make professional development accessible to him on our small island. He is currently enrolled in a Health Science masters program through American Military University and, he also finds as many “CEU” opportunities as he can to stay up and current in his practice. Being an athletic trainer myself, I know the difficulties of finding these opportunities while living on an island. He makes it a point to find and share any opportunities he finds and always has an idea of how these opportunities will benefit not only him but Nantucket’s Athletic Training Department.

In terms of mentoring other athletic trainers, he has taken our “school to career” program and implemented a student athletic trainer option. Our students are required to pursue an “internship” like experience and for a period or two of their school day, they will go to that “internship” and work daily in whatever setting they choose. Tyler not only pursued creating this option for athletic training but is continuously trying to grow and improve it. We now have more students and staff that understand and respect the athletic training profession, are interested in pursuing the profession and are starting conversations around athletic training!

Tyler strives on making connections with our athletes, coaches and other athletic trainers throughout the state. He feels this is the best way to continuously improve rapport, build his skills and improve himself personally and professionally each and every day. Tyler keeps our student athletes, coaches and athletic program at the forefront of his mind every day. Athletic training can be an underviewed, undervalued, underappreciated and underutilized profession and Nantucket’s Athletic Department would love to show Tyler how much we value and appreciate him with this MVP AT Award.

Tyler would be an amazing recipient of the MVP AT Award and would benefit greatly from attending the 2023 NATA Convention. He would bring his enthusiasm and expertise to Indianapolis, create nationwide connections and take every second of the experience in!

Thank you for your consideration of Nantucket’s Athletic Trainer – Tyler Konopka!

Matthew Hunt
Nantucket High School Assistant Athletic Director
508-228-7280 x1218

Nominated by
Matthew Hunt from Nantucket High School
E: [email protected] | W: 5082287280 | P:

To Whom It May Concern:

It is with high regard that I draft this letter of support for Wes Patterson for the School Health Sports Medicine Most Valuable Athletic Trainer Award. I have worked with Mr. Patterson for the past four years in the Department of Athletics for St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS). I can personally attest to his tenacious work ethic and his sincere concern for all students, student-athletes, and staff. He brings an indomitable spirit to his job as the Director of Athletic Training Services for ProFlex Physical Therapy and as the Athletic Trainer for Chopticon High School.

Mr. Patterson is employed by ProFlex Physical Therapy and SMCPS annually contracts with ProFlex for their athletic training services. Although he works for ProFlex, he is considered part of the family in SMCPS and is revered and respected at Chopticon High School by students, staff, and parents. Mr. Patterson also serves as a substitute teacher at Chopticon High School. He often attends school events outside of athletics and supports the student body on and off of the field and beyond the training room. He has fully immersed himself in the culture of the school and in the community. Mr. Sapp, Athletic Director at Chopticon High School, and every other staff member, student, and parent will tell you that we are the direct beneficiaries of Wes’s immersion into our school and community.

Mr. Patterson was instrumental in his coordination and leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and he continues to lead the way for all of our school system’s trainers. He has led our athletic department, schools, and school teams through very trying and taxing times over the last two to three years. He is a mentor to our other contracted athletic trainers and supports their professional development. Wes has also taken on the teaching of our Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries Course. This course is mandatory for all coaches in the state of Maryland. Wes annually teaches this two day course to coaches from our county and to coaches from two or three of our neighboring counties. He has supported many community events including an annual football recruiting event held for athletes in Southern Maryland who are seeking college admission and hoping to continue their playing career. He also supports our Corollary Sports program for students with disabilities. He volunteers his time at our cycling, bowling, and bocce events each year in support of our students with disabilities who cannot participate in the mainstream athletic programs and sports. He has gone above and well beyond the call of duty and continues to do so on a daily basis. Wes’s dedication, devotion, and service to his profession, school, and community are truly unmeasurable.

Mr. Patterson is always seeking to learn more about his profession. Wes is a lifelong learner and he incorporates that mindset into his daily work. He has had great experiences throughout his career that have made him a better and more productive leader. These experiences include leadership and athletic training experiences in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders. Notwithstanding, he also serves on and displays his leadership on state and national associations including the Maryland Athletic Trainers’ Association.

Frankly, Wes is ahead of the collaborative learning curve for the county and state in regards to athletic training especially when it comes to leadership, mentorship, and the development and enhancement of his peers and colleagues. Mr. Patterson has supported new and master athletic trainers in all facets of their positions. He supports and guides staff with developing meaningful goals and provides individualized professional development.

Simply put, Mr. Patterson is a dynamic leader who leads by example. Wes’s tireless commitment to ProFlex Physical Therapy, St. Mary’s County Public Schools, and Chopticon High School is unparalleled. Mr. Patterson has my highest recommendation and would surely represent School Health Sports Medicine as the “Most Valuable Athletic Trainer” with humility and dignity.

Respectfully,

Michael A. Watson

Michael A. Watson

Nominated by
Ray Sapp/Mike Watson from Chopticon/ SMCPS
E: [email protected] | W: 3014750215 | P: 301-904-8149

Will has been with us here at Neumann-Goretti for a few years and has built lasting relationships with our staff and our student-athletes past and present. The care he provides doesn’t end with assessing the injury, he also monitors the well being of the student-athletes through the injury and after. Besides the description of the work Will does, he’s part of our family down here at Neumann-Goretti and is a pillar in the Athletic Community. After battling through the adversity of life and continuing to be a role model he is the example for every student, staff member, and coach to lead while always being there. He is still a student of his craft and works to better himself each and everyday. Will is deserving of this award for all the hard works he puts in, but what is some times unrecognized is his devotion and care for the student-athletes at Neumann-Goretti!

Nominated by
Pat Devenney from Neumann-Goretti HS
E: [email protected] | W: 7322849152 | P:

This young lady is a very dedicated and well liked and hard-working Athletic Trainer. She volunteers to keep our athletic trainers that we compete against well informed of things going on in our district. She is always willing to lend a helping hand when needed and she does not see a color of uniform but a kid that is injured and needs care. I am happy that she is a friend and colleague of mine and its always a pleasure to be on opposite sidelines from each other and have each other’s back when we need to.

Nominated by
Andy WIlson from Harker Heights High School
E: [email protected] | W: 254-336-0862 | P: 254-702-9776

Zack puts in tireless hours and has earned the respect of coaches, teachers, students and parents. He has a great relationship with the medical community as well. Zack will see students with injuries when it works for them, he will come on weekends to ensure students are receiving the services they need to improve.
Zack serves as am internship site for the University of Nebraska @ Kearney and mentors 1-2 student Athletic Trainers each year. Zack is active in our community by showing up to help with tasks that need extra assistance. Zack is amazing and we hope you will consider him for this award!

Nominated by
Amber M Burson from Lexington High School
E: [email protected] | W: 13086312925 | P: 308-631-2925