Specifically, our Athletic Training Outreach Program provided nationally certified and state licensed athletic trainers to multiple high schools and youth sports organizations, and grew outward to new parishes and schools. It should be noted that 92% of our high schools became nationally recognized “Safe Sports Schools” through the National Athletic Trainers Association. Our athletic trainers have been instrumental in covering regional and high school athletic events and club sporting activities across several parishes. Of note, nine of our twelve high schools still qualify under the “Title 1” education program.  Along with physician oversight, the Foundation’s staff members provided coverage at a completely free “Friday Night Football Clinic,” where we evaluated and treated dozens of high school student-athletes.  This year we also held our 2nd Annual “Game Day Prep Physical Day”. With the help of over 100 Foundation volunteers, we were able to provide over 600 free athletic physicals to student-athletes from across the region, in one day! And during what we call “Physical Season”, we provided more than 3000 free physicals to athletes across our community at their home school.

The Foundation also maintained connectivity with students by providing daily orthopedic assessments and rehabilitation on their campuses, covering approximately 13,000 student-athletes. In addition, we have added full time care and coverage at both Southern University and Baton Rouge Community College.

Through the contributions of our community partners, the Foundation is able to provide this service at reduced or no-charge to the participating schools and youth organizations.  This past year alone, we provided over $10,000 in free MRI’s and physician appointments specifically to the under insured population. By providing full time athletic trainers on these campuses, we allow for better patient care and education for each participating organization and community.

During the summer of 2022, individual schools hosted an Emergency Medicine and Heat Illness Update Symposium at no cost to attendees. The athletic trainers and coaches were given hands on experience to better equip them in the event of emergency event. The local physical therapy clinics and hospitals are also an integral contributor to this program and provide better access to patient care because of the Foundation’s presence on their local community campuses.