By
Thirty minutes into the 2025 National XVs Championship game, Cal’s Joe Kirsten cried out in pain, blood pouring from a deep hand laceration.
Athletic Trainer Lindsay Renterias had just 10 minutes to stop the bleeding and clear him to return. Thanks to her swift, expert care, Kirsten reentered the game—and later scored a try that sealed the Golden Bears’ 55-38 national title victory.
Renterias, MS, ATC, has been a force behind the Bears’ rugby program since her return to Cal in 2021, following a stint at Louisiana Tech.
Originally joining the Bears as an athletic training fellow in 2018, she rose through the ranks and now leads the rugby medical staff with confidence and compassion.
“I am constantly exposed to new injuries and medical scenarios that keep me growing,” Renterias said. “Keeping rugby players healthy is not a job for the weak, but at the end of the day the student-athletes’ success makes it worth it.”
Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“Lindsay's care and dedication is what makes her the best AT in the business,” said former player Tom Dixon, who credited her with helping him return from injury just in time to compete in the championship.
Head Coach Jack Clark echoed the sentiment:
“Her skills and knowledge are world-class, and importantly, she also cares deeply for our students. She is a critical piece of our team.”
From surgical rehab to taping ankles, Renterias is relentless in her commitment to Cal Rugby’s success. Behind every tackle, scrum, and sprint this season, her steady presence made the difference—one injury, one comeback, and one championship at a time. Full story here!
