A slam dunk for student athletes: AdventHealth funds renovations for high school athletic training rooms

AdventHealth, a Volusia County Schools community partner, went above and beyond for student athletes at two local high schools with recent floor-to-ceiling renovations of the athletic training rooms.

To support the two schools’ athletic trainers in caring for student athletes, AdventHealth donated nearly $20,000 worth of new equipment and supplies, including ice machines, cabinets, flooring, and fresh paint.

“This reflects our commitment to supporting the health and safety of local students,” said Erik Nason, director of strategic partnerships operations for AdventHealth. “Athletic trainers are on the frontlines of student athlete care, and they are a key part of any school’s sports program. These newly upgraded spaces give local kids access to high-quality care in environments that match the professionalism of the trainers.”

Officials from Volusia County Schools and AdventHealth recently unveiled the newly renovated athletic training rooms at Atlantic High School in Port Orange and Pine Ridge High School in Deltona.

“Whether it’s our student athletes or those who are interested in sports medicine, these updated facilities are an important part in preparing our students for success on and off the field,” said Volusia County Schools Superintendent Carmen Balgobin.

Athletic trainers are highly qualified health care professionals with a master’s level education and state licensure. In addition to ensuring the trainers have the proper tools and space they need to deliver comprehensive care for athletic injuries and recovery, AdventHealth also supports the trainers by covering the cost of their professional memberships, certification fees, and state licenses.

These renovations highlight AdventHealth’s ongoing investment in the well-being of local students and their future. With updated training facilities, the schools are better positioned to support the physical health of their athletes, ensuring they have the care they need to succeed both on and off the field.

Since becoming the Official Healthcare Champion for Volusia County Schools in 2018, AdventHealth has:

• Donated 30 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest
• Streamlined injury reporting with electronic medical records
• Contributed more than $12,000 in medical supplies
• Improved protocols for concussions and exertional heat stroke

Additionally, AdventHealth has provided over 4,000 free sports physicals to area students. At the annual screening events at the Daytona International Speedway, AdventHealth exceeds state or county requirements and performs special screenings, known as ECGs or EKGs, to look for abnormal heart rhythms.

This year alone, AdventHealth performed more than 1,100 free sports physicals for Volusia County Schools students. Of those who elected to receive a free ECG, four needed immediate follow-up care, potentially saving the lives of these local teenagers.