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Chris Lenker, Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine at Tusculum University, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Eugene Smith/Mickey O’Brien College Athletic Trainer of the Year Award by the Tennessee Athletic Trainers’ Society (TATS).
The prestigious award honors individuals who embody the legacy of collegiate care shaped by legends Eugene Smith and Mickey O’Brien.
Lenker, who just completed his 25th year at Tusculum, oversees the healthcare of more than 600 student-athletes at Tennessee’s oldest university.
He will be formally recognized at the TATS annual symposium, taking place May 30–June 1 at Battle Ground Academy in Franklin.
“We are very proud of Chris for earning this prestigious honor,” said Josh Ealy, Vice President of Athletics. “His hard work, talent and dedication are greatly appreciated and we are excited for this recognition of his tireless efforts.”
Throughout his career, Lenker has worked at nearly every level of sport, including the Olympics, but collegiate athletics remain his passion.
“It’s not a job for the faint-of-heart, but it’s immensely rewarding,” Lenker said. “It’s an honor to have my efforts recognized by my peers and leaders in the profession.”
Lenker’s impact at Tusculum has earned his staff multiple accolades, including two South Atlantic Conference Athletic Training Staff of the Year awards.
His résumé also includes work with the U.S. Olympic Committee, the Greeneville Flyboys summer collegiate team, and nearly two decades of service to Tusculum’s Athletic Training Education Program.
A native of Iowa, Lenker holds certifications from the NATA and American Red Cross, and is licensed through the Tennessee Board of Athletic Training Examiners. He holds degrees from East Carolina University, where he began his journey in sports medicine.
As Lenker continues to serve athletes with dedication and excellence, this award marks a well-deserved milestone in a distinguished career. Read the full story here!
