As spring sports start up, so does the season for the Athletic Training Staff at Owatonna High School. This program was started by Terry “TC” Carlyle, Certified Athletic Trainer. Athletic Training has three seasons – fall, winter and spring. This program prepares students to assess sports injuries, ranging from minor issues to emergency situations. These student trainers also learn about the human body throughout these sports and events. When students join, they are called Athletic Training Student Assistants (ATSAs).

TC works for Allina Health – Owatonna Hospital Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. Through his position at Allina Health, TC works at Owatonna High School, Medford High School, Blooming Prairie High School, Wenger, Federated Insurance, Viracon, Bosh, Owatonna Public Utilities, Owatonna Police Department, Owatonna Fire Department and Steele County Sheriff’s Department.

Ever since 1990, TC has been teaching OHS students about the science of Athletic Training. TC said, “In this program, what I really hope that the students learn is a good foundation of basic emergency medicine.” The staff gets a lot of experience from attending so many sporting events with a great balance of learning. Ninety-two students have gone through this program. Sophomore Maggie Marks joined the staff last winter season. Marks said, “I have learned how to stay calm and handle injuries with confidence, so everyone stays safe.”

Senior Ari Buck has been working with TC for four years. Buck plans to study to be a Physician or a Physician Assistant. Buck said, “Working as an ATSA, has been helpful. Being a part of this program, will set me apart from my peers also pursuing the same career path.”

Students in grades nine through 12 are welcome to fill out an application. When in the program, students earn a letter each season. In the future, TC is hoping to have high school credits associated with the program, as well.

Being an ATSA is a great experience. If any students are interested in sports injuries, emergency protocol and working hard, they should visit TC’s office and pick up an application. His office is located by the boys locker room. Also, students can help the program by donating any knee immobilizers, crutches or other medical equipment.

It was publicly announced on Mon., April 10, 2017, that TC received the Fred Zamberletti Award. The Fred Zamberletti Award is named after Fred Zamberletti, the legendary Athletic Trainer for the Minnesota Vikings. The award honors an outstanding Minnesota Athletic Trainer who has had a strong impact in the athletic training profession.

Congratulations, TC, on receiving this prestigious award. It is a very well-deserved honor. The National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame: Minnesota Chapter, will be recognizing TC on Sunday, May 7, at US Bank Stadium. Anyone interested in attending this event can purchase tickets on the website: www.nffmn.org.