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What began as personal injuries turned into professional passion for McKensie Hurt and Katelynn Cockerham—two Athletic Trainers committed to helping student athletes heal, grow, and return to the sports they love.
“I had the same shoulder injury in high school and college. Athletic Trainers helped me get back both times,” said McKensie, who now serves at Columbus East. “That’s when I knew I wanted to do this—to help kids like me get back in the game.”
Both McKensie and Katelynn are part of a comprehensive sports medicine program funded by Columbus Regional Health in partnership with Bartholomew Consolidated and Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corporations.
The system supports five full-time and one part-time Athletic Trainer across Columbus North, Columbus East, Hauser, and Columbus Christian schools—delivering consistent care, injury prevention, and rehabilitation coverage.
“My favorite part is the interaction with the students. I love high school athletes. They are driven and work really hard to get back to their sport,” she said. “It is also cool to see them change from freshman year to senior year. The amount of growth is huge.”
But these Athletic Trainers aren’t just working behind the scenes. They’re leading communication, treatment planning, and athlete education every step of the way. Through a secure sports medicine app used by the program (a Healthy Roster customer), they coordinate with coaches, physicians, and parents in real time.
“There’s no more confusion,” said Columbus East volleyball coach Ellyn McIntosh. “Everyone gets accurate, timely updates.”
Athletes like Drew Schiefer have benefited firsthand.
“They make a plan and give me exercises that help me recover faster,” he said.
From hydration education to injury evaluation, these Athletic Trainers are vital healthcare providers—and now, with real-time communication and access to a full medical network, they’re more connected and impactful than ever.
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