Terry Parker and Westside high schools will have certified athletic trainers on staff next school year, as an initiative to place trainers in each Duval County public high school expands.
Project 17, developed by the Jacksonville Sports Medicine Program, aims to place full-time athletic trainers in each of the 17 public high schools in Duval County by 2020.
“Certified athletic trainers are no longer a luxury; they are a necessity, especially in youth sports,” Robert Sefcik, executive director of the JSMP said. “Many injuries are preventable, so that is JSMP’s primary goal; however, when injuries do occur, being able to recognize and immediately respond to them is critical. That’s what certified athletic trainers do.”
Andrew Jackson, Baldwin Middle/Senior, Englewood, Jean Ribault and William Raines high schools have already benefited from the program. The program will be rolled out based on need and academic calendars.
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Certified athletic trainers who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree are brought in for the positions and giving an education through a collaboration with Jacksonville University.
JSMP received a $50,000 matching grant from the NFL last year and will receive another $50,000 this year, as a result of efforts by the Jaguars Foundation.
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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has been impressed by the cooperation between the Jaguars, private partners and local schools to get Project 17 started.
“Through Project 17, the Jacksonville Sports Medicine Program has crafted a proactive, evidence-based approach to getting student-athletes the medical supervision they need and deserve, which can serve as a model for other communities in the U.S.,” Goodell said in a statement.
DCPS Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti says he’s receiving positive feedback from parents and students about Project 17.
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