La Crosse, Wis. - During March, athletic trainers across America are being recognized for their commitment to helping people preview injuries and stay healthy and active.  March is National Athletic Training Month (NATM) sponsored by the National Athletics Trainers' Association (NATA).  

National Athletic Training Month is held every March to raise awareness of athletic trainers, licensed health care professionals who prevent, diagnose and treat injuries and medical conditions. 

This marks the 26th Annual National Athletic Training Month with this year's theme, chosen by members on social media, is "Care You Can Count On."

Athletic trainers provide care in schools, colleges, workplaces, clinics and professional sports. They are trained in injury prevention, emergency care and rehabilitation and they work collaboratively with physicians and other health care professionals.

Athletic trainers are medical providers within the health care system and play a critical role in patient safety and injury prevention. 

Thank you to UW-La Crosse Director of Athletic Training Services McKenzi Schornack (football, men's basketball) and staff athletic trainers Alexis Schaefer (soccer, baseball); Nicole Ross (golf,  men's and women's tennis, women's basketball); Ryley Freiberg (volleyball, men's and women's track & field); Kelsey Galles (men's and women's cross country, gymnastics); Maddie Gutsch (women's and men's swimming & diving, lacrosse); Dr. Brea Stanton (football, women's and men's track & field) and Allison Harvey (wrestling, softball) and the entire athletic training staff for their endless dedication and support of over 600 student-athletes.  

For more information on the UW-La Crosse Athletic Program, click on the athletic training website.