President's Report

Chris Napoli, MS, LAT, ATC - President

It is an honor to write to you in my first newsletter as President of the New York State Athletic Trainers’ Association. Since beginning my presidency on June 5, 2026, I have been energized by the work already taking place across our Association and by the dedication of our members, Executive Council, committee chairs, regional representatives, and leadership team.

As we move forward from NYSATA’s 50th Anniversary year, we have an incredible opportunity to honor our past while continuing to build a stronger, more connected, and more sustainable future for athletic training in New York State.

With all that has taken place over the past few months, I think it is only fitting to say: Go New York, Go New York, Go! It has been a productive, busy, and exciting start to this new chapter for NYSATA.

Celebrating the New York Knicks Medical Staff

Following the New York Knicks winning the 2026 NBA Finals, NYSATA was proud to recognize the outstanding work of the New York Knicks Medical Staff.

We are especially proud to recognize Anthony Goenaga, Naoya Fujii, Heather Mau, and Yen Pham, who are valued NYSATA members. Their contributions, along with the work of the entire Knicks Medical Staff, reflect the highest standards of athletic training, sports medicine, and patient-centered care.

Their success is a reminder of the impact athletic trainers have at every level of sport and healthcare across New York State and beyond.

Membership Services

NYSATA is proud to announce that, as of August 1, we have partnered with Plum Benefits to offer members access to a lifestyle-focused membership discount program.

Plum Benefits provides access to meaningful perks and discounts for family activities, entertainment, travel, and more. This partnership is one example of how NYSATA is working to enhance membership services and bring added value to your membership.  More information can be found in the Member Benefit section further in this newsletter.

Members should check their email and the NYSATA website for registration instructions on how to create an account and begin accessing discounts.

Did you know?

NATA members also have access to the NATA Member Perks Program, which provides members additional ways to save money and enjoy personal time outside of work.

NATA Honors and Awards

As of July 1, 2026, the 2027 NATA Honors and Awards cycle is officially open. Materials are due by October 1 at 11:59 PM CST.

As we turn the corner on 50 years of NYSATA, this is a great opportunity to recognize the athletic trainers, advocates, educators, researchers, leaders, and supporters who have made a meaningful impact on our profession.

NATA awards include recognition in several areas, including lifetime achievement and highest honors, leadership and service, advocacy and legislative impact, education and professional development, research and scholarship, diversity, equity and inclusion, the secondary school setting, college and university athletics, specialty committee-based recognition, and external partner awards.

Some of these awards include the NATA Hall of Fame, Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer, Athletic Trainer Service Award, Eve Becker-Doyle Leadership Award, Daniel L. Campbell Legislative Award, Emerging Educator Award, Preceptor of the Year Award, Fellows, Secondary School Athletic Trainer of the Year, PRAT Distinction Award, State Association Advisory Committee Award, and many others.

If you need assistance in better understanding the various National Awards, please reach out to your leadership and we can help guide you! Please consider nominating a colleague, mentor, friend, advocate, or professional who has made a lasting impact on athletic training.

Summer Time, and Leadership Is Working Hard

While summer is often seen as a time for relaxation, NYSATA leadership has been hard at work. The Executive Council has been meeting monthly, and the Executive Board has been meeting weekly to continue strengthening our Association.

At the NATA Convention, Region 1 New York City Representative Erica Marcano, Past President Carrie Burke, and I participated in the State Association Advisory Committee Leadership Forum. This forum gave NYSATA the opportunity to reflect on our current governing documents, engage with leaders from other state associations, and participate in breakout sessions with other extra-large states.

Within New York, leadership has also been working on the development of the NYSATA Strategic Plan, while committees continue moving forward with their own initiatives and goals. I am proud of the time, energy, and dedication our leaders are giving to move NYSATA forward.

Quarterly Chat with the President

On July 27, we kicked off one of our newer initiatives, the Quarterly Chat with the President. This initial chat gave members the opportunity to hear what is going on across the state and learn more about the work currently taking place within NYSATA. The conversations were amazing!  Thank you for all of those who were on the chat! Please know you can reach out to me at any time ([email protected]) 

I would like to thank our Secretary, Missy Wilson, for her time and leadership during this session. Missy provided members with helpful information on how to navigate the NYSATA website, including the members-only section and event registration.

These quarterly chats are designed to improve communication, increase transparency, and provide members with a direct opportunity to stay connected with NYSATA leadership. If you have a question, idea, or suggestion, please reach out to the leadership team. 

Quarterly Chat Presentation

As we enter the 2026–2027 school year, I want to wish all of our members the very best. May your athletes be healthy and successful, but more importantly, may you be healthy and successful as well.

Mark your calendars! 

NYS AT Recognition week will be held from September 18th - 27th.  Additional information will be sent out to membership at the end of August. 

Thank you for your continued commitment to NYSATA, your patients, and the athletic training profession.

Go New York, Go New York, Go!

Chris

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President-Elect Report

Kevin Joyce, MSEd, LAT, ATC - President-Elect

As summer continues, I hope you are finding time to recharge while preparing for the upcoming school year and fall sports season. This time of year highlights the vital work athletic trainers do to ensure a safe and successful return to activity for our athletes and patients.

The NYSATA Executive Council remains focused on initiatives that support our members, strengthen our profession, and advance athletic training throughout New York State. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from our current leadership as I prepare to serve in the years ahead.

I encourage you to stay engaged by following our social media channels, participating in upcoming educational opportunities, and considering ways to get involved through committees or volunteer opportunities. Our association is strongest when members share their ideas, experiences, and expertise.

Additionally, the Call for Proposals is now open for the 2027 NYSATA Conference in Lake Placid. New this year, we will feature a poster presentation area for both students and certified ATs. Please submit your proposals. Planning is also underway for the 2028 conference in Syracuse.

Thank you for your daily dedication to representing our profession with excellence. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the coming months and wish you all a healthy, safe, and successful start to the fall season.

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Treasurer Report

Adam Hymowitz LAT, ATC - Treasurer

DUES

This past spring, we hosted a series of town halls focused on the NYSATA Financial Strategic Plan and the financial processes of the Association. Thank you to everyone who attended. We plan to host more town halls in the future to keep the membership updated. As part of these initial town halls, a membership dues increase proposal was presented, and we did our best to answer questions and offer clarity. This proposal was voted on and approved by the membership at our June meeting and will take effect next year. The increased revenue will support new initiatives in our long-term strategic plan, in alignment with the NATA SAAC best practices document, including the retention of legal counsel and accounting services.

Effective January 1, 2027, Professional Membership dues will increase from $50 to $70 annually. The membership also approved a scheduled increase of $5 every three years thereafter:

NYSATA Annual Conference 

Additionally, I am proud to share that for the second consecutive year, the annual state conference turned a profit. A great deal of time and effort went into the planning process to ensure our annual event does not operate at a loss. We set a goal to minimize losses, and we have successfully surpassed it. We look forward to continued improvements for future conferences.

Please feel free to reach out at any time with questions or comments concerning our financial strategic plan and operations.

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Secretary Report

Missy Wilson, MS, LAT, ATC, CEP - Secretary 

Make sure you opt in to communications with NATA to receive NYSATA communications and be a NYSATA member. 

Membership Update

D2 at a Glance

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Regional Reps

Region 1 LI

Nassau, Suffolk

Kristin LoNigro, MSEd, LAT, ATC

College/Univeristy - Academic

Region 1 NYC

Richmond, Kings, Queens, Bronx, New York

Erica Marcano, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

Clinic/Outreach 

Region 2

Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Sullivan, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster

Meg Greiner, MS, LAT, ATC

Secondary School 

Region 3

Montgomery, Delaware, Fulton, Greene, Otsego, Saratoga, Albany, Rensslear, Schenectady, Columbia, Washington, Schoharie, Herkimer

Dave Haverly, MS, LAT, ATC

Emerging Setting 

Region 4

Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Hamilton, Clinton, Essex, Warren

Jason Pachter, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

College/University 

Region 5

Chemung, Tioga, Broome, Oswego, Cayuga, Seneca, Oneida, Cortland, Onondaga, Madison, Tompkins, Schuyler

Amy Grover, MS, LAT, ATC

Secondary School

Region 6

Livingston, Ontario, Monroe, Yates, Stueben, Wayne

Angelo Zegarelli, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

College/University

Region 7

Orleans, Cattaraugus, Genesee, Wyoming, Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Chautauqua

Cleon Clayton, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT

Secondary School 

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Region 1 LI Report

Kristin LoNigro, MSEd, LAT, ATC - Representative

Congratulations to Our New Athletic Trainers!

Congratulations to the graduates of the Hofstra University and Stony Brook University Athletic Training Programs! We also extend our congratulations to those who have successfully passed the Board of Certification (BOC) examination and are beginning their professional careers as certified athletic trainers.

Hofstra University Class of 2026

Front Row  L to R: Dr. Grace Valdez MSAT Program faculty, Lianne Emanuel, Erin Kavanaugh, Danielle DiCristi, Mikaila Rattazzi

Back row L to R: Kristin LoNigro Ass’t Professor and Clinical Education Coordinator Diane McPartland, Senior Assistant to MSAT, Tyler McGivney, Madison Burke, Skylar Kuzmich, London Claxton, Professor and Program Director, Dr. Jayne Ellinger

Stony Brook Class of 2026 

(Photo 2: front - Abigale Morin, Emma Burns, Isabella Donin, Samantha Rutkowsky, Maya Mangual, Grace McKendry; row 2 - Lucas Plaia, Jason Friia, Juan Lamarche, Anthony Guiffre-Oliva, Prof Madison Kolnsberg; row 3 - Prof Xristos Gaglias, Prof Luke Beermann, Staff Assistant Stephanie Nocerino,  Prof Emeritus  Kathy Koshansky)

Future Athletic Trainers

We are also excited to welcome the Hofstra University and Stony Brook University MSAT Class of 2028 as they begin their journey toward becoming future athletic trainers. (Photo 3: Tessa Orgonas, Carly Hebert, Kara Washington, Caitlin Elsasser, Aprar Hassan, Zachary Haskowitz, Nicholas Labita)

Hofstra University 

Hofstra Athletic Training Society (HATS) hosted the Annual Olympic games where alumni, staff, faculty and students gathered to compete in fun day of events.

Tyler McGivney (Second-Year MSAT Student) completed his spring clinical immersion with the Syracuse Crunch (AHL), gaining valuable experience in professional hockey. Tyler also served on the medical staff during the New York Islanders Rookie Camp, further expanding his exposure to elite-level sports medicine.

pictured 4th from left

Madison Burke (Second-Year MSAT Student) completed her spring clinical immersion with the Virginia Tech Softball program, where she worked alongside the athletic training staff caring for Division I student-athletes.

Stony Brook University

Iota Tau Alpha - Alpha Nu inducted its new members and elected board on May 7, 2026. James Pierre-Glaude, PT, DPT, EdD, LAT, ATC, CSCS ‘06,  provided inspirational words as the guest speaker. Congratulations! (Photo 1: front - Julia Tully (Historian),  Jennie Spreckels (Secretary),  Sofia Ribaudo (Treasurer),   Sophia Nestasia (Vice President), Hanna Lupo (President); row 2 - Sumaira Mayan, Alex Walsh, Patrick Schuett, Alex Weinhaus, Joshua Russo, DeAndrè Pittman, Maria Lutz).

In May, Stony Brook University welcomed 7 new graduate students into our eighth master’s cohort - the Class of 2028! We are excited to work with them over the next two years and prepare them to be amazing athletic trainers. You can see their activities if you follow us on social media.

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Region 1 NYC Report

Erica Marcano, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

Billing Practices Survey

Save the Date

We are planning a fun NYC social for Athletic Training Recognition Week! Consider this a "save the date" for Thursday, 9/24 - and keep an eye out for an official email invite soon!

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Region 3 Report

Dave Haverly, MS, LAT, ATC - Representative 

I hope you are enjoying a well-deserved summer and taking some time to recharge before another busy school year begins and for those that work in the non-traditional settings that you have been enjoying your summer. I wanted to take a moment to share a few updates and let you know what has been happening within our association.

Over the past several weeks, I have been reaching out to many of our members to check in, and ensure everyone is staying informed about what's happening within NYSATA. These conversations have been incredibly valuable, and I truly appreciate everyone who has taken the time to share their thoughts, ideas, and feedback.

One of my priorities is making sure your voice is heard. I encourage you to continue sharing your suggestions, concerns, and ideas about how NYSATA can better serve our members. Your input helps guide our initiatives and strengthens our profession.

One of the initiatives is the development of the mentorship program. My goal is to connect experienced athletic trainers with students and early-career professionals who can benefit from guidance, encouragement, and professional support. Mentorship plays a vital role in the growth of our profession, and I am excited to work toward creating meaningful mentor-mentee relationships within our region. If you are interested in serving as a mentor or would like to be paired with one, I would love to hear from you. Also, if you are a student and are interested please contact me.

As we continue moving forward, I encourage everyone to stay engaged with NYSATA. Whether it's participating in committees, attending educational events, mentoring the next generation, or simply sharing your ideas, every member contributes to the success of our association.

Thank you for everything you do each day to care for your patients, advocate for our profession, and represent athletic training with excellence. I look forward to continuing to connect with each of you and provide you with anything that you may need as your region representative.  

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions, suggestions, or simply want to connect.

Wishing you a safe, healthy, and successful remainder of the summer! 

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Region 4 Report

Jason Pachter, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative 

Adirondack Summer Circuit Highlights the Best of Region 4 Sports Medicine

Whiteface Mountain

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Region 5 Report

Amy Grover, MS, LAT, ATC - Representative

Athletic trainers from Region 5 came together on July 23rd for the 2nd Annual Programming & Social event at SUNY Cortland!

Courtney Gray from Ithaca College shared her CEU presentation, “Mental Health: Strategies for Recognition and Intervention”, giving attendees many takeaways for how ATs can recognize and refer for depression and anxiety in student-athletes.

Immediately following we gathered outdoors at Cortland Beer Company for networking, live music and delicious pizza from BRIX - sponsored by Mueller Sports Medicine.

We’re looking forward to our 3rd annual event next summer - location TBD!

Cornell University

Cornell Athletic Trainers participated in the Out of the Darkness Walk to support mental health awareness throughout the Cornell community. The event began with inspiring speakers who shared messages of hope, connection, and the importance of supporting one another. The walk concluded with a sunny route around campus, bringing the community together in solidarity and reminding us of the importance of mental health resources and conversations.

Cornell Athletic Trainers participated in Denim Day by wearing denim to raise awareness about sexual assault, support survivors, and stand against victim-blaming myths. While the denim served as a visible symbol of solidarity, it also sparked meaningful conversations within the athletic training room. Beyond caring for injuries, Cornell Athletic Trainers are committed to fostering an environment where every student-athlete feels safe, supported, and heard.

Cornell Athletic Trainers stepped off campus to review the Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for all off-campus competition venues. Athletic trainers, sport administrators, ambulance representatives, and event staff came together to collaborate, review emergency procedures, and ensure preparedness for a wide range of emergency situations. These site visits help strengthen communication, clarify roles, and reinforce Cornell's commitment to providing a safe environment for all student-athletes, staff, and spectators.

Cornell Sports Medicine staff gathered for their annual end-of-year golf outing, bringing together current and former staff members along with their families for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. The beautiful weather made for a perfect day on the course, and the event concluded with pizza, awards, and an opportunity to celebrate another successful year while reconnecting with colleagues across generations of Cornell Sports Medicine.

Cornell Sports Medicine staff took a break from their summer athletic training room responsibilities to participate in a blind coffee taste test. The fun challenge gave staff a chance to relax, enjoy some friendly competition, and compare their favorite brews before getting back to caring for student-athletes. It begs the question: Do athletic trainers run on coffee?

Cornell Athletic Trainer Mia Stefanelli presented a research poster at the NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo in Philadelphia this summer. Her presentation, titled "Cognitive Load and Motor Task Difficulty But Not Concussion History Influence Spatiotemporal Gait Biomechanics," highlighted research conducted as an extension of her master's thesis at the University of Georgia Biomechanics Research Laboratory and Concussion Research Center. Mia's work contributes to the growing body of evidence surrounding concussion assessment and gait biomechanics while showcasing Cornell Sports Medicine's commitment to advancing the athletic training profession and concussion education.

Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists Staff Development

The athletic trainers at Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists wrapped up another school year with their second annual Staff Development Day at Falk College on Syracuse University's campus. The agenda included a panel on sudden cardiac arrest case studies from our own staff's experiences at their schools and a CEU presentation, "Sports Nutrition Tips & REDs Clinical Assessment" from SU's sports dietician Dr. Jessica Garay. 

Additionally, staff ATs had the opportunity to “sharpen” their scraping techniques with a seminar offered by SOS physical therapist, Caitlyn Hennessey.

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Region 6 Report

Angelo Zegarelli, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

NYSATA and Region 6 would like to thank Phil Steckley for his service in the role as Region 6 representative. His final duties came to an end after helping put together a great NYSATA Region 6 gathering and for helping with the NYSATA annual meeting at the RIT Inn and Conference Center held at the beginning of June.  There was a great program, facility and turnout for both events

NYSATA Leadership at the 50th Anniversary Dinner at the NYSATA Conference

RIT Athletic Training Staff at the NYSATA Conference

Ben Emke, Jamie Heffron (presenter), Jackie Crossgrove, Cara Maciag

SUNY Brockport Alumni who attended (Missing Jim Grant) and posing with mentor Sue Wielgosz

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Region 7 Report

Cleon Clayton, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT - Representative

Scan and follow us on Instagram! Let us grow our social media together.

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Committee Chairs

Awards

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC

Region 4, College/University

College and University

Jeff Carter, MSEd, LAT, ATC, EMT-B, CSCS

Region 2, College/University 

Conference and Education

Vacant

Diversity and Inclusion

EDAC Chair

LaTonja Lee, MS, LAT, ATC, PES

Region 1LI, College/University

Fundraising

Thomas Burns, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Governmental Affairs

Aimee Brunelle, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 3, Secondary School

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC

Region 4, College/University

Hall of Fame

Bob Gariglio, MSEd, LAT, ATC

Region 1 LI, Secondary School

History and Archives

Vacant

Joseph Abraham Award

Meg Greiner, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Membership and Nominations

Shawn McNamara, DAT, LAT, ATC

Region 1 LI, College/University

Newsletter

Vacant

Public Relations

Vacant

Research/Injury

Vacant

Scholarships

Patrick M. Donnelly, EdD, LAT, ATC

Region 5, College/University

Secondary School

Craig Olejniczak, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Social Media

Rachel Lyons, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Webmaster

Vacant

Young Professionals

Liv Newhouse, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 5, Student

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Awards Report

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC - Chair

It’s almost time to recognize the extraordinary Athletic Trainers in our community! NYSATA Award Nominations are open from September 1st through November 1st.

Has a fellow AT gone above and beyond, consistently stepped up to serve, or made a lasting impact on their community? Show your appreciation by nominating them for a NYSATA Award!

Not sure which award fits best? Here’s a quick overview:

• Kent Scriber Recognition Award: Recognizes individuals or groups whose exceptional acts, promotion, or service advance the mission of NYSATA and the AT profession in New York.

• John Sciera Service Award: Honors NYSATA members and supporters for outstanding contributions and dedicated service to the profession across the state.

• Thomas J. Sheehan Sr. Award: Celebrates a NYSATA member who embodies character, integrity, vision, and relentless dedication to athletic training.

• Joseph Abraham Award: Awarded to a high school that provides exemplary athletic injury care to its student-athletes.

• NYSATA Hall of Fame: The highest distinction awarded by NYSATA, honoring leaders who have made profound, lasting contributions to Athletic Training in New York.

Interested in past winners or ready to nominate? Click any award title above to visit its dedicated page for full details and the official nomination form.

Don't Forget About Scholarships!

Students can also apply for NYSATA scholarships during this window (deadline TBD). Bonus: Students only need to complete one application form to be considered for all six available scholarships!

EATA Awards

NATA Awards

Nominations are open until October 1st.

NATA Nominations page: https://www.nata.org/membership/honors-and-awards

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Conference and Education Report

Save the Date: NYSATA Heads to Lake Placid for the 2027 Annual Conference!

Get ready for one of the most scenic conference locations in NYSATA history! We are excited to announce that the 2027 NYSATA Annual Conference will be held in beautiful Lake Placid, New York, with conference activities taking place at the Lake Placid Conference Center and attendees staying at the spectacular High Peaks Resort, located right on Mirror Lake in the heart of the village.

While the conference will feature the outstanding educational programming, networking opportunities, and professional development you've come to expect from NYSATA, Lake Placid offers so much more than meeting rooms. Whether you plan to arrive early, stay a little longer, or simply make the most of your free time, you'll find countless ways to experience one of New York's premier summer destinations.

Surrounded by the breathtaking Adirondack High Peaks, Lake Placid is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a paddle on the crystal-clear waters of Mirror Lake, hike one of the area's many scenic trails, bike through the mountains, or enjoy a leisurely gondola or scenic drive up Whiteface Mountain for unforgettable panoramic views.

History and sports fans can explore the Olympic legacy that defines Lake Placid. Visit the Olympic Center, tour the Olympic Museum, experience the ski jumps, ride the Cliffside Coaster at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, or discover why Lake Placid remains one of the world's most iconic Olympic villages.

If relaxation is more your style, stroll along Main Street's unique shops, art galleries, and boutiques, enjoy waterfront dining overlooking Mirror Lake, catch a concert, or simply unwind with a coffee while taking in the mountain scenery. Summer in Lake Placid is filled with live music, community events, farmers markets, and outdoor entertainment that create an unforgettable Adirondack atmosphere.

High Peaks Resort places you just steps from it all. With stunning lake views, easy walking access to downtown, pools, complimentary seasonal watercraft, and exceptional hospitality, it provides the perfect home base for both conference activities and exploring everything Lake Placid has to offer.

The 2027 NYSATA Annual Conference promises to be more than an outstanding educational experience—it will be an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues while enjoying one of New York State's most iconic destinations. If you would like to join the presenters we are now accepting proposals please use this link to submit your proposal: https://forms.gle/i8MpBBVRXpGYVpAy9

We can't wait to welcome you to Lake Placid in 2027. Mark your calendars now for June 28-30, and start planning your Adirondack adventure!

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Fundraising Report

Thomas Burns, MS, LAT, ATC - Chair

We are excited to announce the launch of our Corporate Sponsorship program. For those interested, please contact the NYSATA fundraising chair. 

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Governmental Affairs Report

Aimee Brunelle, MS, LAT, ATC and Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC - Co-Chairs
Karin Spencer - Spencer Strategic Solutions, LLC

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Membership and Nominations Report

Shawn McNamara, DAT, LAT, ATC -  Chair 

Opening Soon: 2027 NYSATA Board & Regional Nominations

This is a quick reminder that the nomination period for several key NYSATA leadership positions opens on August 10-October 1st, 2026.

If you or someone you know is interested in serving, you can complete and submit a nomination form directly on gonysata.com. Please note that all nominees must be current NYSATA members.

Open Positions:

• Region 1 Representative: NYC

• Region 1 Representative: Long Island

• Region 3 Representative

• NYSATA Treasurer

As NYSATA looks to the future, this is a fantastic opportunity to step up, shape our organization’s direction, and contribute to our ongoing success. Have your say and nominate a candidate today!

Congratulations to our Elected Leadership

• • President-Elect - Kevin Joyce

  • Secretary - Missy Wilson

  • Region 5 - Amy Grover

  • Region 6 - Angelo Zegarelli

Committee Chair Appointments

NYSATA leadership has also been focused on strengthening our committee structure. I am pleased to recognize two recent committee chair appointments.

Kristin LoNigro has been appointed as the NYSATA ATs Care Committee Chairperson. Kristin will oversee the NYSATA ATs Care Committee, composed of representatives from each of New York State’s eight regions, and serve as the primary liaison between NYSATA and the NATA ATs Care program. She will help coordinate confidential peer-to-peer support services for athletic trainers and athletic training students following critical incidents.

Rachel Jan Lyons has been appointed as the Social Media/Public Relations Committee Chairperson. Rachel will oversee NYSATA’s social media and public relations efforts to strengthen member engagement, promote the profession of athletic training, and enhance the Association’s visibility throughout New York State.

Volunteer Opportunities

Get involved, make connections, strengthen our profession. 

Why Volunteer: 

Volunteering with NYSATA is more than giving your time, it's a chance to connect grow and lead. 

You'll gain: 

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Social Media Report

Rachel Lyons, MS, LAT, ATC - Chair

Hi, I’m Rachel and I am super excited to be appointed the Social Media & Public Relations Committee Chairperson for NYSATA. As a Certified Athletic Trainer at the secondary school level for 13 years, I have a deep passion for this profession and I hope that I can portray that through this leadership role. Overall, I will promote the profession of athletic training, strengthen member engagement and enhance the visibility of our association through New York State. As the Athletic Training profession is often a solo role, I hope to foster a sense of community and connection throughout our social media platforms. I will continue to create a space where Certified Athletic Trainers can engage, share experiences, celebrate success and support each other. If you have social media and aren’t following these platforms, be sure to do so:

·       Instagram: @nysata

·       Facebook: GO.NYSATA

·       X: Go_NYSATA

Once you follow these platforms, you will see posts about the Athletic Training profession, educational opportunities, and member accomplishments. To ensure that I recognize all Athletic Trainers and their settings, I can’t encourage all members enough to please send me any of the above mentioned to NYSATA Social Media Submissions. I will also be emailing region representatives (soon!) prompts to share with their Athletic Trainers – yes, maybe even a tiktok trend or 2! – The more involvement, the better!! Athletic Trainers are true professionals, but we can have a little fun, too! 

As I am only in the first month of this appointment, I hope to learn and share new ideas to promote the Athletic Trainer Profession. Be sure to follow, like, repost, share and send an email to [email protected] to continue to celebrate and connect with our NYSATA Certified Athletic Trainers.

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Key Updates For Athletic Trainers & Sports Medicine Professionals

New York state Updates:

nATIONAL Updates:

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District and National News

NATA District 2 will be accepting applications for several upcoming leadership opportunities. The following positions will be posted in Gather on August 1, 2026, and will remain open for 30 days:

The selected individuals will begin their terms on July 1, 2027.

These opportunities will also be featured in the District 2 Wire, scheduled for publication in mid-August. NYSATA members who are interested in becoming more involved at the district level are encouraged to review the postings and apply.

Interested in doing research?

Check out what the NATA Foundation can assist you with! 

NATA Foundation Professional Research Grant

NATAPAC and NATA Research and Education Foundation are looking for your Support- Let NY be the difference!

Both the National Athletic Training Association Political Action Committee and the National Athletic Training Association Research and Education Foundation, are looking for contributions to continue their success, learn more about the NATAPAC and the Foundation below and please consider making a small contribution if you can. 

What is NATAPAC?

NATAPAC, a political action committee connected to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, is a federal group that provides campaign contributions to approved candidates on behalf of NATA. NATAPAC will give primarily to candidates for the United States Senate or United States House of Representatives. It is a nonpartisan group. If you can support NATAPAC please make your Contribution Here!

NATA Research & Education Foundation

The NATA Research and Education Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA). The NATA Foundation champions research, supports education, and enhances knowledge to optimize the clinical experience and outcomes within the diverse patient populations served by the athletic training profession. If you can support the Foundation please make your Contribution Here!

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Member Benefits

Membership Perks

We are excited to share a member benefit designed to help you relax, recharge, and enjoy your time off for less!

Through our partnership with Plum Benefits, NYSATA members get free, exclusive access to discounts of up to 60% off on top entertainment, travel, and lifestyle experiences nationwide.

What You Can Save On:

• Theme Parks & Attractions: Walt Disney World®, Universal Studios®, Cedar Fair, and local parks

• Entertainment: Broadway shows, concerts, live sports, and movie tickets

• Travel & Stays: Major hotel chains, rental cars, and vacation packages

• Events & Experiences: Museums, tours, ski resorts, and dining deals

How to Get Started in 3 Easy Steps

Getting your savings is fast, free, and easy:

1. Visit: Go to plumbenefits.com

2. Access: Enter our official company code: NYSATAFUN

3. Save: Create your free account using your preferred email address and start exploring thousands of deals instantly!

Pro Tip: Check back frequently! Plum Benefits adds seasonal promotions, holiday specials, and limited-time flash sales throughout the year!

“As President of NYSATA, I am proud that we can offer benefits that support our members both professionally and personally. Athletic trainers devote so much of their time and energy to caring for others, and this partnership with Plum Benefits provides an opportunity to save while making time to relax, recharge, and enjoy meaningful experiences with family and friends.” ~ Christopher Napoli, NYSATA President

NATA Member Perks 

NATA Member Perks Program

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In Memoriam

We honor the memory of our colleagues who have recently passed. Their dedication to the profession of athletic training and the well-being of their athletes leaves a lasting legacy within our community.

Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and the many lives they touched throughout their careers.

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