Fort Osage’s offensive line gets into position ready to block for the next play. As the running back receives the ball the defensive line sneaks their way into the backfield and tackles him hard. He grabs his left ankle and stays on the turf. As he is laying on the field Select Physical Trainer Ms. Dawna Gilbert and a student assistant runs out to the field to begin comforting the player by asking questions, stretching, and sitting them up. 

The month of March is National Athletic Trainers Month. The school’s student trainers take care of all the athletes throughout the year. Freshman Student Trainer Peyton Shockley thinks that this experience is very enjoyable. 

“You make a bunch of memories,” Shockley said. “There’s been ups and downs between people, but you get to make new friends.” 

This is Shockley’s first year in the program. Senior Amelika Acevedo has been a part of the Athletic Training Program for all four years of high school. Acevedo feels that the chaotic moments gave her the best memories. 

“Sometimes it’s a little stressful when there are a lot of people coming to get taped, but overall those are the best memories I have,” Acevedo said. 

The training staff consists of nine students total. The staff is made up of five seniors, one sophomore, and three freshmen. Senior Brianna Petterson believes that helping athletes is the best part about being a trainer. 

“I love being there for athletes and helping them in whatever way I can,” Petterson said. 

Petterson has been a part of the program for three years. 

As the player begins to sit up, Ms. Gilbert and her team of student trainers help him stand to his feet. He wraps his arms around their shoulders as he hobbles back over to the sideline. Once he reaches the sideline they wrap his ankle and the player heads over to the bench ready to go for the next offensive drive.