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When Dartmouth High School’s Athletic Trainer Kathleen Thornton was a student, she had no idea her profession even existed—her high school didn’t have one.
But after a minor injury while playing soccer at Bridgewater State, she had an epiphany that changed her career path forever.
Now, after more than 30 years in the field, including the past two at Dartmouth, Thornton has been honored as the 2024 Yoshitaka Ando Athletic Trainer of the Year.
Nominated by Dartmouth Athletic Director Andrew Crisafulli, Thornton’s impact was so profound that athletes wrote letters in support of her recognition by the Massachusetts Secondary Schools Athletic Directors Association.
"I’ve had a great time here,” Thornton said of Dartmouth. “I can’t say enough about the kids.”
Thornton, who leads a team of Athletic Trainers at Southcoast Health contracted to 10 area high schools, was especially honored to receive an award named after a former college classmate.
“Ando was a fantastic guy,” she said.
Athletic training is about more than just treating injuries—it’s about relationships.
“The best part of my day is when a kid I’ve done rehab with gets back on the field successfully,” Thornton said.
Crisafulli praised her dedication, saying she fosters “a very safe, respectful environment that kids can thrive in and parents can be supportive of.”
Her expertise goes beyond physical rehabilitation, taking into account the mental and emotional aspects of recovery.
Thornton treats up to 40 athletes a day in the fall, handling everything from asthma attacks to fractures. While managing the demand is a challenge, she sees the growth of Athletic Trainers in schools as a win for student-athlete health.
“It’s quite an honor … to be recognized for what you do every day,” she said.
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