VOTING ENDS TODAY AT NOON!

Get to know the nominees! 

Here's brief intro of each AT based on the details provided by those who nominated them:

Kalevi Pajuluoma    
Northwestern State University/
Natchitoches Regional Medical Center    
"Kal Pah-ju-lue-oma is a beacon of leadership in the NRMC Sports Medicine department. Every day, he goes above and beyond, building relationships and embodying care, respect, and understanding. Juggling an intense schedule with grace and commitment, Kal is a natural leader, mentoring and uniting his team through every challenge. His tireless dedication and ability to make everyone's job easier is a testament to his excellence."

Marie Siler-Hardin
University of Missouri    
"At Mizzou, she's redefining excellence. Her dedication goes beyond caring for athletes; she's a mentor, a listener, and an innovator. Always striving to enhance the program, Marie creates a unique, supportive environment for staff and athletes alike. With vast knowledge and a willingness to find solutions, Marie leads the athletic training staff with passion and distinction. Her impact is profound, touching the lives of all who work with her.”

Elexis Pitcher    
Concentra
GXO Nike
"A dedicated professional, Lexi combines her expertise in athletic training with a chiropractic degree, embodying passion and advocacy in healthcare. Renowned for her hard work and dedication, she has earned immense respect from employees for her guidance in living healthy, happy lives, both pre and post-injury. Lexi's commitment to patient and care is unparalleled."

Jennifer Rheeling
KIPP DC: Public Charter Schools
"After 32 years in DC Public Schools, she's now pioneering KIPP DC's first full-time athletic training program. Jennifer's mission? To establish a top-notch program focused on best practices and a healthy work environment for both trainers and patients. Her dedication and visionary approach are shaping the future of athletic training!"

Bianca Grimshaw
UofL Health
"As the first female president of the Kentucky Athletic Trainer’s Society, she's a trailblazer. Bianca launched the “Team up for Sports Safety” project, marking the Korey Stringer Institute's debut in Kentucky. At UofL Health, she has expanded sports medicine outreach from 2 to 13 high schools and beyond, growing the team from 2 to over 20 athletic trainers. Her advocacy and leadership have made a profound impact in Kentucky and beyond."

Sarah Rowe    
Community Health Network
Whiteland Community High School
"Deeply integrated into Community Health Network and Whiteland Community High School, Sarah has earned immense trust as an outreach athletic trainer. She skillfully managed severe on-field injuries, demonstrating remarkable leadership and expertise. Sarah not only conducts vital emergency action plan rehearsals but also mentors new athletic trainers, fostering excellence. As a key member of the employee council, she spearheads initiatives, embracing innovative approaches like Healthy Roster."

Natalie Flores    
Concentra Medical Centers
"Natalie has masterfully developed an onsite industrial athletic training program at Concentra, preventing injuries for countless workers annually. Her innovative preventive initiatives have significantly enhanced worker health and reduced work-related injuries. Known for her selfless heart and tireless resolve, Natalie navigates through organizational challenges with ease, always prioritizing the well-being of her workers."

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Steve “Sid” Basiel
Providence College    
"Meet Steve 'Sid' Bay-seal, an outstanding candidate for Athletic Trainer of the Year at 62 years young. With a career spanning diverse roles, Sid has always maintained top-notch fitness and professional excellence. He's garnered immense respect from players, coaches, and peers alike. As the head ATC for PC hockey, he celebrated a national championship victory in 2015. Known for his dedication and long hours, Sid is not just a superb athletic trainer but also a fantastic cook!"

Shannon Drew
Cate School
"At Cate School, Shannon has elevated the AT program to rival collegiate standards, setting a new benchmark for secondary schools. She's dedicated to fostering community among athletic trainers and understands the vital role of clear communication between coaches, parents, and athletes. Through continuous engagement, Shannon not only enhances understanding but also strengthens trust in the exceptional services provided."

Connor Barnes
Xavier University
"Connor exemplifies professionalism and is highly esteemed by the Xavier Athletics staff and administration. He's a versatile team player, adept at assuming various roles and providing seamless coverage for colleagues in the sports medicine department. Actively involved as Secretary for the Greater Cincinnati Athletic Trainers Association, Connor demonstrates the qualities of a true, genuine professional ATC."

Robert Lopez    
Children’s Hospital Colorado    
"His team has told us that he’s a master of Healthy Roster. Robert has maximized its potential at their workplace, bringing coaches, athletes, and families on board. He's the go-to expert for their 80+ AT team, providing invaluable guidance on utilizing Healthy Roster's full suite of features in clinics, schools, and clubs. His efforts in enhancing communication and streamlining processes have significantly elevated the efficiency and quality of their sports medicine services. Robert's innovative approach and dedication make him a deserving candidate for this award!"

Eric Cardwell
North Hills HS    
"Celebrating his 14th year in the North Hills School District, Eric's exceptional skills recently earned him a spot as an honorable mention in Training & Conditioning magazine. Known for his kindness and dedication, he's the reassuring presence at multiple sports events. His unwavering commitment to his craft and the students is unparalleled. This year, he played a crucial role in saving a young athlete's life, showcasing his invaluable expertise, at a JV football game!” 

Chrissy Lachney
Louisiana Athletic Care
"As both a teacher and athletic trainer, Chrissy skillfully manages the largest school in their organization. Her exceptional organizational skills and ability to collaborate have elevated the standard of healthcare for student athletes. Balancing her professional dedication with being a mother to a young child and expecting another, Chrissy's commitment is truly inspiring. Her welcoming personality and contagious smile make her a joy to work with, according to her teammates!"

There you go! All our nominees! So please vote on your favorite AT today! 

Thanks for all that you do!