Ashe Memorial Hospital has welcomed a new face to its sports medicine team—Athletic Trainer Jill Steinbrink, who will provide comprehensive care for Ashe County High School student-athletes.
“We are extremely excited to add Jill to our team,” said Dustin Absher, director of rehabilitation services for Ashe Memorial Hospital. “She brings a wealth of knowledge along with collegiate level experience at Appalachian State and is passionate about supporting our student-athletes on and off the field. With her arrival, Ashe County High School Athletics can expect consistent and comprehensive athletic training coverage… Jill will be a tremendous asset to our sports medicine program.”
A native of Illinois, Steinbrink’s athletic roots began on the soccer field at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, where she contributed to a defense that allowed just six goals in nine games with six shutouts. She was named to the Horizon League’s Academic Honor Roll and the university’s Academic Advisor’s List.
Her path toward Athletic Training grew from a passion for health and fitness and a desire to stay connected to sports.
“I grew up coming to the mountains and I love the outdoors,” Steinbrink said. “Athletic training is a good way to stay around the game.”
Steinbrink earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science and health psychology in 2021 and completed her Master of Science in Athletic Training at Appalachian State University in 2023. She later served as the Athletic Trainer for App State’s wrestling, cheer, women’s basketball, and women’s tennis teams.
Now transitioning to the high school setting, she looks forward to building relationships and fostering athlete growth.
“With high school it’s more about keeping the kids safe and letting them play,” she said. “I’m looking forward to watching them grow and change as they get older throughout the year.”
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