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Iredell Health System's Sports Medicine Program Provides Athletic Training Services to Local High Schools
Posted Date: 11/17/2011
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Stacy Bess, ATC., works with a player at a recent South Iredell High School football game. She is employed by Iredell Health System’s Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine program.
Four years ago, Iredell Health System’s Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine programs developed a partnership with local high schools to provide athletic training services. The partnership started at South Iredell High School and was expanded to West Iredell High School. The group hopes to expand to other local high schools next year.
“Having athletic trainers on the side lines are not just a precaution, it’s a need,” said Christa Roseberry, PT, ATC, CSCS for Iredell Health System. Local sports programs recognize the value we bring to their programs. Now, other schools want us to be at their games too.”
Iredell Health System employee Stacy Bess, ATC, works with South’s football program. She attends all of their practices and games focusing on nutrition, hydration, strength training, on-the-field injury management, triage and rehabilitation.
We are also excited to have recently added Sarah Davis, ATC, to our Sports Medicine team. Sarah has played an instrumental role in our services at West Iredell High School.
Certified Athletic Trainers like Bess have a four year degree specialized in sports medicine.
“I think it’s really important to have an athletic trainer on the sidelines,” Bess said. “We help filter emergencies and determine whether an injury is a small bruise or if the player should be taken to the emergency room. At South, we are fortunate to have Dr. Scott Brandon there as well, helping us to provide the care players need even quicker.”
Having the athletic trainers at all practices and games puts the coaches, players and parents more at ease as well.
“I am so much more relaxed about my son playing football knowing that the athletic trainers are there,” said Kelley Daspit, a SIHS football parent.
One of the main focuses of the program is educating parents and athletes about preventing injuries before they even happen. In addition, IHS holds free sports injury clinics every Saturday mornings during football season.
“Any local high school athlete who is injured from a Friday night game can come and be assessed by our medical professionals,” said Carl Dunkin, director of Rehab Services for Iredell Health System.
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