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Every successful journey often begins with an unlikely turn, and for Joe LaMere, Clinical Supervisor for Gundersen Health, it was a shift from pursuing a business degree to a career in athletic training.
It was an AT from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater who saw the potential in Joe and suggested a change in career direction.
"I actually got a business degree. One of the Athletic Trainers said Joe you would be really good at this and I said Jane there is no way."
Despite his initial reservations, LaMere listened to the advice, earned his master's degree in athletic training from Illinois State University, and got his certification as an Athletic Trainer shortly thereafter.
Over the years, LaMere has made a significant mark in the world of athletic training, particularly in La Crosse. He has had the distinction of being present at esteemed sporting events such as the Pro Bowl and the Ryders competition. And his involvement extended to working with three indoor football teams based in the region.
LaMere's commitment to young athletes is evident. Almost half of his professional time is dedicated to Gundersen, where he closely collaborates with high school athletes.
He helps cover an impressive 29 schools, including 21 high schools, 6 middle schools, and he also provides healthcare at Western Technical College and Viterbo University.
"With being in a clinic, we do have some schools that we go out to twice a week and triage the athletes... to make sure we give them what they need to perform that night."
One of LaMere's cherished relationships is with Joel Babinec, the Athletic Director at Luther High School. Their camaraderie goes beyond their professions, having forged a deep-rooted friendship. Babinec's admiration for LaMere is clear:
"You can certainly tell he loves what he does, and it's always with the best interest of the kids at heart."
However, the pinnacle of LaMere's career was his induction into the Wisconsin Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame. A recognition that LaMere finds humbling, especially considering it is an accolade conferred upon by peers and speaks to his outstanding contributions to the field.
"It just shows you all the great people that you've worked with, who have helped you along the way, and along the journey."
In Babinec's words, capturing the essence of LaMere's character, "There's never a time where you see Joe unhappy. This guy loves what he does, and it's evident in the way he portrays himself."
Joe's journey from getting a business degree to becoming a Hall of Fame Athletic Trainer is an inspiring tale of passion, dedication, and unyielding commitment to helping student-athletes.
Watch his video here.
