Seeking treatment, he turned to Biggerstaff, who had already established himself as a pioneering Athletic Trainer.
In 1997, Biggerstaff launched the Athletic Training program at Lindenwood University, which later earned accreditation in 2003. Reflecting on his career, he recalls discovering the profession as a high school team manager.
“I looked more like a snowman than an athlete,” he joked, recalling his short-lived attempt at football.
Encouraged by coaches, he pursued Athletic Training and later became the only certified AT in the Greater St. Louis area. In 1979, he helped establish the Midwest’s first sports medicine clinic and has since opened five more. His contributions led to his induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.
Inspired by Biggerstaff, Holtgrewe pursued Athletic Training himself.
“I didn’t know what I was going to do, and then I saw this amazing world where I could hang out with athletes, treat them, and get them back on the field,” he said.
After years apart, the duo reunited at Warrenton High School—this time as colleagues. Holtgrewe, who has worked there for six years, invited Biggerstaff to join him part-time.
“It’s great to work with somebody you know,” Biggerstaff said. “It’s like a machine—you know each other’s strengths and shift things back and forth.”
Holtgrewe sees Biggerstaff not just as a mentor but as family.
“I tell people that I’m becoming him,” he said. “His love for Athletic Training and the kids is what drove him, and now I get to teach the next generation at Lindenwood. It’s a cool dynamic.”
Biggerstaff, in turn, is proud of Holtgrewe.
“He’s a fine young man, and that’s a testament to his parents,” he said. “It’s rewarding to see him grow—not just as an Athletic Trainer, but as a person.”
From mentor to colleague, their journey highlights the power of mentorship, passion, and friendship in shaping careers and lives. Read the full story here!