Jun 16, 2020
Texas Athletic Trainers Honored After Saving Student’s Life

It was back in January when three Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District (Texas) athletic trainers worked together to save the life of an injured student-athlete during a wrestling event.

Alain Dorval, from Cypress Park High School, Heather Smith, from Cypress Lakes High School, and Ross Little, from Cypress Falls High School, were recognized by the Greater Houston Athletic Trainers’ Society with the G”HATS” Off Awards — recognizing actions taken by athletic trainers under unusual circumstances to protect those in his or her care.

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Cypress Park High School Head Athletic Trainer Alain Dorval (left), Cypress Falls High School Assistant Athletic Trainer Ross Little (center), and Cypress Lakes High School Head Athletic Trainer Heather Smith (right). Photo: Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District

According to a press release from the school district, the trio of Texas athletic trainers helped stabilize a student-athlete who suffered spinal and neck injuries. The release stated that Little stabilized the athlete’s neck while sending another athletic trainer to notify Dorval, who reached the mat alongside Smith, Dr. Randall Camarillo — the supervising physician — and emergency medical services personnel.

Dr. Camarillo determined the best course of action was to stabilize the athletic to a backboard for transport to a nearby Texas hospital, the release read.

» ALSO SEE: Role of Ohio Athletic Trainers Changing Amid Return to Sports

The medical team worked together to get the student-athlete on the backboard, stretcher, and in the ambulance, according to the release.

“Their actions led to the life of a student-athlete being preserved. Their actions highlight why the profession of athletic training is of such importance,” R. Joseph Hebert, Langham Creek High School head athletic trainer and GHATS honors and awards committee chairman, said in the release. “Professionals such as this help make safe sports participation possible. On behalf of the executive board and membership, we thank these individuals for representing the profession of athletic training so well.”

To read the full release from the Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District on these three athletic trainers acting fast together, click here




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