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In a profession where the impact often happens away from the limelight, Myranda Crump's dedication to her students and community has not gone unnoticed. Recently crowned the 2024 North Carolina Athletic Directors Association (NCADA) Athletic Trainer of the Year, Crump's journey in athletic training has been marked by professionalism, compassion, and a deep-seated commitment to the wellbeing of her athletes at Carrboro High School (CHS).
Crump embarked on her career at J.H. Rose High School in Greenville before finding her calling at CHS, where she has become an integral part of the community.
Her passion for her work is palpable, as she relishes the daily interactions with students, staff, and parents alike.
"My favorite part is always just getting to interact with the community, parents, kids on a daily basis — not one day looks the same."
Her tenure at CHS began amidst the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that demanded adaptability and foresight. Scarlett Steinert, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools’ director of healthful living, athletics, and drivers' education, praised Crump for her exceptional handling of these challenges.
From coordinating with EMTs and firefighters to planning for the safe resumption of school athletics, Crump's professionalism shone brightly.
Steinert emphasized the qualities that led to her nomination for the prestigious award.
"She cares about students first, and is great at communicating with coaches, parents, and kids, and just really takes her job so serious.”
The recognition by the NCADA is part of a broader initiative to highlight the essential yet often overlooked roles within schools, especially following the global pandemic.
With 37 nominations last year alone, the Athletic Trainer of the Year Award is among the highest honors, underscoring the competitive and revered nature of this acknowledgment.
Roy Turner, executive director of the NCADA, noted Crump's multiple nominations from various members of the Carrboro community as a testament to her positive impact.
"It was because of the descriptions, and the way other people spoke of her, that you know she's making a positive difference in their community."
The essential work of Athletic Trainers like Crump—ranging from emergency planning and CPR training to rehabilitation efforts—often goes unnoticed by the broader public. Yet, these behind-the-scenes endeavors are crucial to ensuring the safety and health of student-athletes.
Crump's humility and selflessness are evident, as she expressed surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award.
"This is a job where you don't do it for the recognition or the thank-you's — it's a very selfless job."
Myranda Crump's story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on their community through dedication, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
As she continues to inspire and support the athletes of Carrboro High School, her recognition serves as a beacon for the essential, yet often invisible, role athletic trainers play in shaping the lives of young athletes.
