After 32 Years at Elmira College, Athletic Trainer Dave Tomkalski Retires with a Lasting Legacy

After more than three decades caring for student-athletes at Elmira College, longtime Head Athletic Trainer Dave Tomkalski is officially retiring.

Tomkalski joined Elmira in 1993 and spent the next 32 years overseeing sports medicine services for the Soaring Eagles while also teaching sports medicine and physical education courses.

Over the years, his impact stretched far beyond tape jobs and rehab sessions.

“Dave was always there to listen to our athletes,” said Head Men’s Ice Hockey Coach Aaron Saul. “He always provided a positive and safe environment where athletes could talk about their success, failures and frustrations.”

Tomkalski’s career also included major contributions to the Athletic Training profession itself. He was one of the founders and first president of the District of Columbia Athletic Trainers Association and remained active in the Elmira community by presenting at clinics, symposiums, and Special Olympics volunteer trainings.

Colleagues and former students described him not only as a respected Athletic Trainer, but also as a mentor and father figure.

“Dave has meant so much more to me than just a mentor,” said incoming Head Athletic Trainer Maria Market. “He became like a father figure to me and played a huge role in shaping not only the athletic trainer I am today, but the person I am as well.”

Certified by the NATA and the state of New York, Tomkalski built a reputation for professionalism, compassion, and humor throughout his career.

After 32 years at Elmira, his legacy will continue through the countless athletes, students, and Athletic Trainers he influenced along the way. See more of the story here!