Central High School Athletic Trainer Enterline Named Secondary AT of the Year

When Mackenzie Enterline arrived at Central High School in 2019, the sports medicine program was “pretty small.” Five years later, she’s transformed it into a thriving, student-centered hub of learning and care — and the state has taken notice.

Enterline has been named the Virginia Athletic Trainers’ Association Secondary Athletic Trainer of the Year, a statewide honor recognizing excellence in care, leadership, and service.

The award, presented by the VATA Executive Council, came through a nomination from Rocktown High School Athletic Trainer and regional representative Siaura Saville, who said the decision was effortless.

“The students are in good hands,” Saville said. “They trust what she’s doing. They trust what she says. They really just feel like she’s being a lot of good to Central.”

She described the program’s growth as “a big 180,” adding that Enterline has drawn interest not only from athletes but from students across the school.

Central High Principal Elizabeth Bereczki echoed that impact.

“Mackenzie is incredibly deserving of this honor,” she said. “Her leadership of the Central High School Sports Medicine Club has created meaningful opportunities for our students to learn and grow.”

Enterline launched the club in 2024–25, now in its second year with 30 members. Students complete 20 annual observation hours, shadowing her during practices and games.

“I think it's a space where everyone just feels welcome,” Enterline said. “It is more of a student-led club.”

Saville said Enterline’s calming, approachable presence is part of what makes her exceptional.

“She always brings a very calming demeanor,” she said. “She’s warm and approachable.”

While many picture Athletic Trainers sprinting onto fields, Enterline noted that most of her work is quiet and emotional.

“People see us taping or running onto the field,” she said. “But what they don’t see is… helping an athlete… told, ‘Hey, you just had a season-ending injury.’”

Enterline said she plans to keep strengthening Central’s program — and she’s staying put.

“I can’t picture myself leaving,” she said.

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