---
title: "New Bits: AT Stories From Around the Country!"
description: We've compiled brief new stories highlighting the dedication of ATs and their impact. Read more about these inspiring healthcare pros on our blog.
image: https://blog.healthyroster.com/hubfs/Athletic%20Training%20And%20Sports%20Medicine%20News-1.jpg
---
[ All posts ](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/all)
June 23, 2026
# New Bits: AT Stories From Around the Country!
 By [ Tim Clark ](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/author/tim-clark) · 2 minute read
CDC Launches 'Heads Up' Campaign Amid Growing Concerns Over Football Head Injuries
The CDC launched the campaign to help doctors, school professionals, and Athletic Trainers better diagnose and manage concussions. This initiative comes after the tragic death of Cohen Craddock, an eighth-grade football player from West Virginia, who passed away following a head injury during practice.
Dr. Phillip Gribble, an Athletic Trainer and professor at the University of Kentucky, highlighted the importance of early education and safety protocols.
*“If a player isn’t properly taught at an early age, don’t lead with your head. See what you tackle. Those are simple phrases that go a really long way.” *
He also emphasized the dangers of Second Impact Syndrome, which can lead to severe consequences when an athlete returns too soon after a head injury.
Dr. Gribble noted the life-saving potential of having certified Athletic Trainers on the sidelines and emphasized the importance of pre-season cognitive screenings to track athletes’ health throughout the season. Full story [here](https://www.wkyt.com/2024/08/27/uk-expert-high-school-football-safety-concerns/)!
Ed Evans Leaves Legacy of Leadership and Compassion in Athletic Training
Ed Evans, Northwestern State’s Director of Sports Medicine for over two decades, passed away following a brief illness, leaving a lasting impact on the athletic community.
Evans succeeded the revered Eugene "Doc" Christmas as head Athletic Trainer in 1989 and mentored countless Athletic Trainers during his 23-year tenure. Jason Drury, Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, credited Evans for his own success:
*“Ed touched so many lives.”*
Evans was also a leader in the athletic training community, serving as president of the Louisiana Athletic Trainers Association and earning multiple honors, including induction into the LATA Hall of Fame. His influence extended beyond Northwestern, strengthening bonds throughout Louisiana and the South.
Longtime Demon basketball coach Mike McConathy highlighted Evans’ remarkable ability to assess situations and take charge. Evans’ dedication to student-athletes and his empathy for his staff leave a legacy that will continue to impact the profession for years to come. Read more [here](https://nsudemons.com/news/2024/9/4/sports-medicine-n-club-hall-of-famer-ed-evans-left-legacy-of-care-friendships.aspx).
Janice Bentley Retires as Lehi High's Athletic Trainer, Continues Impact in the Classroom
After 16 years as Lehi High School’s Athletic Trainer, Janice Bentley has stepped away from the sidelines but will continue to support students in the classroom. Bentley retired from her role as Athletic Trainer to find more work-life balance but remains dedicated to teaching health and science classes.
*“I loved what I did, but it’s getting harder to cover all the sports all the time."*
Her days were packed with evaluations, treatments, practices, and games, often running late into the night.
*“It’s the relationships. You don’t know the impact you’re having on people in the moment, but you see them years later, and they say, ‘Remember when?’”*
Bentley plans to continue teaching and cherishes her connection to the Lehi community.
*“Being at Lehi has created a second family for me with the students, their families, and the coaches.” *
Check out the her full story [here](https://lehifreepress.com/2024/09/08/lehi-high-athletic-trainer-retires-after-16-years-of-service/)!
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## Related posts
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### [AT Helberg to Be Inducted into East Texas Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Honor](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/at-helberg-to-be-inducted-into-east-texas-athletic-trainers-association-hall-of-honor)
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### [Head Athletic Trainer Rhoads: 'It Can Get Scary...'](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/head-athletic-trainer-rhoads-it-can-get-scary)
[ ](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/inside-the-rockies-atr-managing-injuries-workloads-and-grind-of-a-162-game-season)
[Baseball Athletic Trainers](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/tag/baseball-athletic-trainers)
### [Inside the Rockies’ ATR: Managing Injuries, Workloads and Grind of a 162-Game Season](https://blog.healthyroster.com/blog/inside-the-rockies-atr-managing-injuries-workloads-and-grind-of-a-162-game-season)
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