Athletic Training News: New Hires and Honors Across Collegiate Sports Medicine
ASHLAND, OH — OhioHealth athletic trainers at Ashland University have been recognized with the Great Midwest Athletic Conference Athletic Training Staff of the Year Award for the 2024-2025 season — their first since joining the league in 2021. Led by Head Athletic Trainer Josh Wiemels, the seven-member staff supports 24 sports teams, ensuring consistent, high-quality care for hundreds of student-athletes. “The health and safety of student athletes is our top priority,” said Lisa Parker, AT, Manager of OhioHealth Sports Medicine. “We’re proud to see our team’s commitment recognized by the conference.” OhioHealth has partnered with Ashland Athletics since 2018, continuing to provide integrated care through its sports medicine team and physicians.
WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ — Monmouth University has appointed Lewis Young, MAEd, LAT, ATC, CES, as its new Director of Sports Medicine. Young brings more than a decade of NCAA Division I, professional, and clinical experience, including leadership roles with UNC Cary Orthopaedics and stints with Indiana University, Virginia Tech, and the Los Angeles Chargers. “His ability to build relationships, implement innovative care models, and lead will be transformative for our Sports Medicine team,” said Athletic Director Jen Sansevero. A former collegiate tennis player, Young emphasized his holistic vision: “My goal is to create a proactive, collaborative model that supports performance, recovery, and long-term athlete health.”
NORFOLK, VA — Old Dominion University has announced Janay Ward as the new Athletic Trainer for women’s basketball. Ward joins the Monarchs after serving at UMBC, Georgia Tech, and several Maryland institutions, working with a range of teams from men’s soccer to track and field. “I’m excited to be joining a program with a winning culture—one that embodies a true ‘championship effort,’” said Ward. A Towson graduate and former Outstanding Senior in Athletic Training, Ward’s diverse experience across Division I and III programs has prepared her to elevate athlete health and performance at ODU.
Across campuses nationwide, Athletic Trainers continue to advance the profession through leadership, innovation, and compassionate care. Whether earning conference honors, shaping sports medicine departments, or joining new teams, their work ensures that athletes not only compete—but thrive.