20 Years of Care: Liza Sylvia Builds More Than Athletes at Maple Shade

For Maple Shade High School Athletic Trainer Liza Sylvia, the job has never just been about injuries—it’s about people.

“I do tell a lot of parents I’m going to treat your kid as if they are my own,” Sylvia said. “I’m going to love on them… but I’m also going to love them with all my heart.”

Now celebrating 20 years in the profession, Sylvia’s journey began with her own challenges. As a high school soccer player, she endured six knee surgeries and feared her career had ended.

“I thought my career was over… hang up the cleats,” she said. “But the physical therapy team… showed me there was a light at the end of the tunnel.”

That experience inspired her to give back—helping others find hope during their toughest moments.

At Maple Shade, Sylvia has gone even further, creating a student trainer program to mentor the next generation. Students gain hands-on experience while learning something even more important: how to care for people.

“I love Mrs. Sylvia… she’s like a mom to everyone here,” said senior student trainer Rachel Loomis.

For Sylvia, the impact isn’t measured in wins, but in relationships.

“It boils down to feeling safe, loved,” she said. “There’s no bad days in here.”

Two decades in, Sylvia’s mission remains the same—supporting her athletes, building trust, and creating a community where everyone feels they belong. Read the full story here!