.svg)
By
Temple Independent School District is spending the National Athletic Training Month recognizing the vital contributions of its Athletic Trainers and student aides, who work tirelessly to ensure the health and safety of more than 1,500 student athletes across its middle and high school campuses.
Temple ISD’s athletic training program, which began in 1972 with a single AT, now includes three full-time professionals: Windee Skrabanek, Mackenzie Lyon, and Stephanie McKeel. Together with 25 athletic training students, they oversee 1,544 athletes districtwide.
Leading the team is Skrabanek, a respected figure in the field.
“The athletic training staff is led by the most reputable Athletic Trainer in Central Texas, and that’s Windee Skrabanek,” said Superintendent Bobby Ott. “What she has built in Temple is a model across the state.”
The district's commitment to sports safety and health has earned Temple High School Safe Sport School status from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Athletic Trainers play a multifaceted role, according to Jon Wallin, executive director of communication.
“They attend practices and games, help athletes rehabilitate from injuries, keep them hydrated, and maintain equipment — often with little recognition,” he said.
Skrabanek highlighted the broad skill set required in the profession.
“Along with emergency care, support and trust... some key qualities [Athletic Trainers] embody include communication, empathy, quick thinking and problem solving,” she said.
Student Athletic Trainers like Jordyn Valdez view the program as life-changing.
“This is my dream... to someday make this my profession,” she shared. Sophomore Kaytlynn Marek added, “Athletic training has helped me socially, academically, and personally.”
Ott summed it up best:
“Our Athletic Trainers separate themselves from other groups in the sense that they never have an off-season. I’m truly proud of their work.”
Read the full story here!
