Two Athletic Trainers' Society of New Jersey (ATSNJ) members took home national awards at the 74th National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Clinical Symposia & AT Expo held June 21-24, in Indianapolis, IN.
Kevin Briles Sr. received the Athletic Trainer Service Award. Kevin previously served as ATSNJ President from 2019-2021, Past-President from 2021-2023, and Southern Region Representative from 2012-2016. Kevin currently serves as Head Athletic Trainer and Assistant Athletics Director for Delsea Regional High School in Franklinville, NJ.
The Athletic Trainer Service award recognizes NATA members for their commitment to leadership, volunteer service, advocacy and professional activities at the local and state levels. Recipients have been involved in professional association, community organizations, grassroots public relations efforts and service as a volunteer athletic trainer.
Kate Zimmerman received the Emerging Leader Award. Kate currently serves as ATSNJ Treasurer and previously has served as Central Region Representative from 2021-2023. Kate currently works at Ocean Township High School as Head Athletic Trainer and Intro to Sports Medicine Teacher.
The Emerging Leader Award is given to an NATA member, within their first 10 years of athletic training service, who: innovates and inspires ideas, demonstrates the highest level of service, integrity, professionalism and competence, raises the visibility and influence of the profession, actively shares responsibility, and motivates others to accomplish higher levels of commitment to state service, and collaborates with other entities and organizations for the betterment of the state association.
“Congratulations to Kevin and Kate on being honored by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Both have made significant contributions to the Athletic Trainers' Society of New Jersey and the athletic training profession. Receiving awards at the national level is a testament to the quality of athletic trainers we have in New Jersey,” said Ken Cieslak, President of the Athletic Trainers’ Society of New Jersey, Inc.
Along with the award winners, several ATSNJ members presented and served as moderators at the NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo.
“Having ATSNJ members presenting and moderating at the national level shows our commitment to advancing the profession and level of expertise of our members,” added Cieslak.