What is your role at UPHS – Portage?

I am a licensed athletic trainer for the local high schools; Chassell, Dollar Bay, Hancock, Houghton, and Jeffers varsity sports. 

What was your inspiration for getting into Sports Medicine?

In high school, I always wanted to go into the medical field. When my dad sliced his hand open and needed physical therapy, I fell in love with the concept. However, I like to move around and not sit in one place for too long and was introduced to athletic training by my preceptor. What makes me passionate about this job is I love making connections with people. I also love sports and I want to go the extra mile to help those who need it. In high school, I played multiple sports and had didn’t know at the time what an athletic trainer was. Knowing I can make an impact on these young athletes to better prepare them not only for the field but everyday life is very rewarding.

What is it like working in this field?

We prepare and educate our coaches and athletes to prevent injuries, evaluate athletes, refer or provide appropriate treatment. Some days, I work games on the sideline, while other days I’m in the office seeing patients or catching up on paperwork. We see many kinds of injuries from turf toe to broken or dislocated bones. Being prepared for any kind of situation is key to a healthy season.  

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I have been an athletic trainer for UP Health System since 2018. This is the start of my 5th year in the high school setting, but I have also provided assistance at our local universities at Finlandia University and Michigan Technological University. 

What are some of the things you have noticed in your position?

Coaches, athletes, and parents might not know what an athletic trainer is and what ATC’s can provide for the community and athletes. Our job is mostly behind the scenes and sometimes we may only communicate with parents if there is an injury or concern. 

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?

Interests outside of work are my family, the outdoors, and books. My husband and I are blessed to have our 3-month-old baby girl, Levvi, healthy and happy. We have two dogs: Sirius and Ahsoka who love exploring the woods and swimming in Portage Lake. KC Bonkers is my current local gem. I love a good coffee shop to relax in after a stressful week or a chai latte before a cold hockey game in the Dee stadium. 

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Portage?

In the sports medicine department, we are not only co-workers but friends. It is one of the best circumstances to know you have a good support system behind you for emotional and physical support. We work together to get things covered for our community and helping athletes return to the sport they love is what matters most.