For some students, the excitement of being close to the action is what draws them to sports medicine.
Senior Andreanna “Anna” Evans is one such student. She loves working at wrestling duals, describing the fast-paced environment as thrilling.
Evans is part of Sedro-Woolley High School’s Sports Medicine Team, joining fellow seniors Savannah Evans and Tianna Benoit; juniors Maricarmen Torres, Kera Eerkes, Samantha Medina Mondragon, and Yaretzi Torres; and sophomore Tyson Slater.
To join the team, students must first complete Intro to Health Science and Sports Medicine 1. Many also take Sports Medicine 2 to further enhance their skills. The classes are especially popular with student-athletes, who want to learn how to prevent and care for injuries. Once prerequisites are met, students register for the Sports Medicine Team via Final Forms, just like other sports programs. Team members must also have a sports physical and maintain the required GPA.
Anna, who plays soccer and tennis for the Cubs, said her favorite part of sports medicine is being on the sidelines for various sports and learning more about them.
For Savannah Evans, the best part is the hands-on experience.
“It really creates a foundation for my life and eventual career in the medical field,” she said. Football is her favorite sport to cover because the team treated her like family.
Tianna Benoit joined the program after a knee injury ended her soccer and basketball aspirations.
“I still get to be close to all the sports,” she said.
Kera Eerkes agreed, noting the program provides hands-on experience and a chance to form connections.
“You get to meet and get to know a lot of people—the athletes and other sports medicine students,” she said. “You spend a lot of time together.”
Samantha Medina Mondragon echoed the sentiment.
“The best part is meeting new people, like the players on the team,” she said.
Many students named football as their favorite sport to cover. Tianna enjoyed the welcoming environment, Kera appreciated the team’s inclusivity and positivity, and Samantha liked getting to know the players.
For sophomore Tyson Slater, the camaraderie stands out.
“For me, it’s the bond you create with the team. You’re building a family outside of your own and having fun,” he said.
Basketball has been his favorite sport so far.
“I got to meet new athletes and reconnect with some I already knew from football,” he said. “They’re chill.”
Girls Basketball Coach Kenneth Crawford praised the Sports Medicine Team’s contributions.
“There is no doubt that our student trainers are a very important part of our success,” Crawford said. “They demonstrate a growing knowledge of athletic care, are consistent and diligent in what they do. You can tell they take pride in what they do, and that is a result of the excellent mentorship they get from Mel, our athletic trainer. Their efforts are very much appreciated!”
Whether they’re treating injuries, watching dramatic plays, or building connections, Sedro-Woolley High School’s Sports Medicine Team is learning valuable skills and creating memories that will last a lifetime.