AT Erin Young Leads the Charge in Athletic Care at Aspen Valley Ski Club

As you may now know, we love to cover Athletic Trainers in unique settings and here's another great story from the slopes! We found this article on the Aspen Times and it was written by the AT, so go check it out! 

Injuries are an inevitable part of the demanding world of skiing and snowboarding, but at the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club, a proactive approach towards injury prevention and management sets the standard.

Erin Young, the dedicated Athletic Trainer at AVSC, plays a pivotal role in this effort, bringing her expertise and passion to the forefront of athletic care in a sport where every day presents a new challenge.

"I love what I do because I get to incorporate all the things about athletic training, in a 'non-traditional' setting of skiing and snowboarding: injury evaluation, injury management, rehabilitation, sports performance, and so much more."

With five seasons under her belt at AVSC, Young has been instrumental in implementing comprehensive year-round strength and conditioning programs, alongside innovative injury prevention strategies.

Her work is supported by a collaboration with The Steadman Clinic, offering a wealth of resources for professional development and athlete care. This partnership allows for a seamless integration of world-class orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and specialists into the recovery process, ensuring athletes receive top-tier care.

"Teamwork is one of AVSC’s core values, and while teamwork comes into play in many ways, we are able to truly collaborate with the best caregivers and specialists in the country to assist in our athlete recovery."

One notable example of this integrated care approach is the recovery journey of Hanna Faulhaber, a professional halfpipe skier, reigning world champion, and AVSC alumni.

Following a knee injury, Faulhaber's swift and comprehensive treatment plan was orchestrated by Young and her team, demonstrating the efficacy of AVSC's athlete care model.

From immediate evaluation and surgery at The Steadman Clinic to intensive rehabilitation efforts involving both AVSC and the U.S. Ski Team’s performance and medical staff, Faulhaber's path to recovery underscores the exceptional resources available to AVSC athletes.

"Her favorite rehab tool at both PT and at AVSC is the blood flow restriction exercises. This rehab and strength progression will continue until she’s ready to return to skiing late this summer or fall."

What stands out in Young's narrative is not just the elite level of care provided to top athletes like Faulhaber but the accessibility of these resources to all AVSC athletes, regardless of their status.

The club's commitment to preventing injuries, managing recoveries, and ensuring a safe return to the slopes reflects a broader mission to support athletes both on and off the hill.

"Whether it be a major injury or a nagging minor injury that is still holding back an athlete from their full potential, we never want to lose anyone to an injury."

Through a combination of expertise, teamwork, and a shared commitment to athlete health, they are navigating the complexities of injury prevention and recovery, ensuring that every athlete has the support they need to excel on the snow and beyond.

Thanks for all you do, Erin!