How Upper Michigan Athletic Trainers Are Protecting Football Players Amid Declining Participation

Football may be safer than ever, but it remains a high-impact sport—and in Upper Michigan, Athletic Trainers are the frontline professionals ensuring players stay healthy and programs stay alive.

“We’re that first call, and we have the ability to evaluate the injury and make a determination whether or not they need to see the doctor,” said Active Physical Therapy/Negaunee Athletic Trainer Nikki Maki.

Their role stretches far beyond game day, especially in rare emergencies. Former Michigan Athletic Trainer’s Society President Mark Stonerock emphasized readiness:

“Be ready for those scenarios when they happen… You practice until you can’t get it wrong.”

Despite this, Michigan does not require schools to employ Athletic Trainers.

“There’s actually only one state in the United States that requires athletic trainers. That’s Hawaii,” Stonerock said. “Roughly 20% of schools in Michigan have a certified athletic trainer, but they estimate that around 70% will get some athletic training service.”

Local data tells a similar story. A 2020 Korey Stringer Institute study found that 19 of 36 U.P. schools offered no athletic training services, while only three had full-time ATs. A new 2025 survey of 39 football-sponsoring schools shows slight improvement—but access remains uneven.

Declining participation has only heightened concern. Seven U.P. schools canceled at least one game this fall; two—Mid Peninsula and Gwinn—canceled their seasons entirely.

“We don’t have a lot of room for injuries,” said Bark River-Harris head coach Caleb Adams, adding, “Reducing the risk of injury is our number one priority.”

That starts with proper technique.

“Being able to tackle appropriately is one of the biggest injury preventers,” Maki said. Concussion recognition is equally vital: “You need your brain for life… Second-impact syndrome can be deadly.”

Safety equipment helps, including guardian caps.

“If the data says they’re going to help reduce concussions, that’s what we’re going to do,” Adams said, noting his program has seen just one concussion in two years.

But equipment—like full-time Athletic Trainers—requires investment.

“It’s a decision that school districts have to make,” Adams said.

In a region where every athlete counts, Athletic Trainers remain essential to keeping football both safe and sustainable. Check out the full story here!