What is an Athletic Trainer (AT)?

An AT is a health care provider who has specific training in prevention, emergency care, injury diagnosis, rehabilitation, of injuries and medical conditions.  All of the athletic trainers who work through Zeeland Public Schools are contracted through Corewell Health. This provides them with a vast array of medical connections, which can help streamline care for student-athletes. 

 

Who are the ZW ATs?

• Diana Albers: This is my 11th year at ZW and I’ve worked at a couple other area schools before coming to ZW. 
  • Cell: 616-834-0619
  • email: dalbers@zps.org or diana.albers@corewellhealth.org 
• Noah Ellis: covers at the middle schools and both high schools. He works out of West on Tuesday/Thursday and Friday and East on Monday/Wednesday
  • Cell: 616-422-5671
  • email: nellis@zps.org or noah.ellis@corewellhealth.org 

 

• Expectations of the ATs
  • Keep in mind that there are many more athletes than ATs
  • More minor injuries will typically get some rehab exercises or stretching to work on at home, it gets sent to their phone or email
  • Athletes are expected to communicate with parents about their injury, so please ask them first
  • We will call you about major/serious injuries that require a doctor's visit and concussions
  • You can always contact us if you have questions
• Expectations of parents
  • Please update FF, current and new medical conditions and phone numbers for emergencies 
• REPORT injuries: the sooner the better
  • We can do more when know
  • If you’re not sure if it’s ok to play, just ask, that is what we are here for
  • If the injury is serious or warrants a referral we can help with that which often means quicker appointments, typically within 24-48 hours
• A written note is required for: ANY physician/doctors visit during the sports season
  • This is school policy
  • Includes sports related issues
  • Non-sports related injuries
  • Illness, wisdom teeth, mole removal
  • If it is not just a well-child appointment, please get a note. 
  • When in doubt ask for a note. It is alway easier to get the note while you are there. The note must include restrictions or state that the athlete is fully cleared to return to play. 
• Concussions 
  • Please report any concerning incidents/symptoms. Proper treatment right away improves recovery. 
  • Getting back to play involves early low level activity and a supervised return to play
  • MHSAA requirement that athletes are also cleared by a physician
  • We will always cover those details if your child sustains a concussion
• School insurance: 
  • Secondary: after everything else
  • Deductible of $500
  • Then 60%
  • We fill out a form, send it home with your athlete and you must complete the form and submit the necessary paperwork directly to the insurance company
  • Please request a claim form if you would like to use school insurance
• Please be aware that Caffeine in excess, such as the amount found in energy drinks and pre-workout can:
  • Cause physical issues: heart palpitations, passing out, upset stomach and increase anxiety, sleep disturbance 
  • Contribute to dehydration since it is a diuretic and when combined with sports this can set athletes up for issues. 
  • Encourage healthy diet, lots of water and good sleep for optimal performance 

 

Our #1 goal is to help keep your athletes safe and get them back to playing as quickly and safely as possible.