Maryville College student-athletes are feeling the strain of a reduced athletic training staff this year.
“Our two Athletic Trainers, Jenny and Caleb, are stepping up big time to make sure being temporarily understaffed has the smallest impact possible on students,” said Athletic Director Andrew Wu. “We’re all extremely appreciative of everything they’re doing.”
To help ease the workload, one former Maryville College Athletic Trainer has returned part-time, and Prisma Health is providing coverage when Massey and Johnston are unavailable.
But Massey, who serves as the Director of Athletic Training, said the challenge extends beyond Maryville’s campus.
“Athletic training departments across the country are struggling to be fully staffed,” she explained. “Every school in our conference is currently short-staffed.”
Despite the shortage, Massey emphasized that the staff continues to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and event coverage for all student-athletes.
“While our staff situation is less than ideal, we are doing our best and continue to provide care to the student-athletes of Maryville College,” she said.
Athletes recognize and appreciate the trainers’ dedication.
“They’re always the first to arrive at athletic events and the last to leave,” said softball player Tia Stewart (‘27). Teammate Jacey Goetzinger (‘28) noted that while fewer trainers mean less frequent access to care, “absolutely none of this is the fault of our current Athletic Trainers… they’re working extremely hard to make sure everyone is taken care of.”
Women’s tennis player Calliana Kondolios (‘28) echoed that appreciation, added:
“The trainers are working nonstop to help everyone. They care a lot and work super hard.”
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