Legendary Athletic Trainer Dean Kleinschmidt Honored by Hall of Fame

Former New Orleans Saints Athletic Trainer Dean Kleinschmidt will be honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his extensive contributions to the NFL.

Kleinschmidt will receive an Award of Excellence, a recognition started in 2022 for significant contributors outside of players, coaches, and top front office personnel.

Kleinschmidt's illustrious career with the Saints spanned from 1969 to 1999. In 1971, at age 24, he became the youngest head Athletic Trainer in NFL history.

Under his leadership, the Saints' training staff earned NFL Athletic Training Staff of the Year honors in 1986.

Beyond his tenure with the Saints, Kleinschmidt held notable positions, including administrative director at East Jefferson Hospital Wellness Center and head Athletic Trainer roles with the Washington Redskins, Indiana University, and the Detroit Lions.

His accolades include induction into multiple halls of fame, such as the Louisiana Trainers Association Hall of Fame (1990), the National Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame (1994), and the Senior Bowl Hall of Fame (2008). He also received the National College Football Foundation Athletic Trainer of the Year award in 2003.

Kleinschmidt's commitment to sports medicine and athlete welfare has earned him widespread respect. He will be honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, on June 26-27.

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