'I was in no place to make this decision… I could have killed one of my own kids!'

The Montezuma-Cortez school district in Colorado faced a passionate plea from residents on Tuesday, advocating for the reinstatement of the school's Athletic Trainer position.

The board room was packed, with many attendees standing due to lack of seating, as concerned parents and staff voiced their worries over student safety and coach workloads.

Nicci Crowley, one of the speakers, emphasized the critical role of an Athletic Trainer, especially in high-risk sports.

“I really want the board to think about the safety of our athletes and kids involved in activities.” 

Crowley highlighted the increased risk of concussions and other injuries without a dedicated AT:

“Why would our district choose to do the minimum when we have amazing people in our county ready to work for our kids?”

Jarrett Watkins, a physical education teacher and coach at Montezuma-Cortez High School, recounted a recent on-field injury that underscored the need for an Athletic Trainer. Watkins shared how a serious thigh injury to a student nearly led to a fatal outcome... due to the absence of medical professionals:

“I ran onto the field, and my player was screaming in pain. The fracture could have severed the fermoral artery, and my kid would have died from blood loss before he made it to the hospital,” Watkins said tearfully. “I was in no place to try and make this decision … I could have killed one of my own kids.”

Watkins added:

“I’m begging each of you for help to try and figure out how we can retain this position. It helps our kids, and it helps our coaches.”

Mitch Taffe, the former Athletic Trainer who was released in June, spoke to the board about his extensive role and the high demand for his services, having had 950 encounters with student-athletes last year alone.

“Athletic Trainers are the front line workers. We are trained in emergency care for cardiac emergencies, spinal cord injuries, severe fractures, and weather-related emergencies such as heat stroke.”

Despite his dedication and experience, Taffe's position was eliminated this summer, leading to widespread concern among the community. Watkins said of Taffe:

“He’s such a good guy and a great athletic trainer. He’s worked for the (New Orleans) Saints. He’s worked for the Buffalo Bills, and he’s one of the best Athletic Trainers in the state, and we’re about to lose him.”

Residents and staff alike are urging the school district to prioritize student safety and reinstate the Athletic Trainer position before the start of the new school year.

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