National Athletic Training Month: Recognizing Nathan Sterling at CORE Center

March is National Athletic Training Month, a time to recognize the critical role that certified athletic trainers play in sports safety, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. At Daviess Community Hospital's CORE Center in Washington and Odon, athletic trainers are on the front lines of athlete care, ensuring that students, workers, and active individuals stay healthy and perform at their best.

This year, we are highlighting Nathan Sterling, MS, LAT, ATC, who has been serving as an athletic trainer at Barr-Reeve High School, as well as other schools, for the past five school years through his work with the CORE Center. His dedication to injury prevention, emergency care, and athlete rehabilitation has made a significant impact on student-athletes, helping them recover safely and return to the game stronger than before.

The Role of an Athletic Trainer

Athletic trainers specialize in injury prevention, immediate care, and rehabilitation for athletes and active individuals. They are often the first responders when an athlete sustains an injury, providing critical on-the-field assessment and treatment. They also guide athletes through recovery, working alongside physicians, coaches, and families to ensure a safe and effective return to play.

At CORE Center, certified athletic trainer serve not only in schools but also in factories, businesses, and local sporting events, offering customized programs to fit the needs of various organizations. Their work provides peace of mind for parents, coaches, and administrators, knowing that athletes have expert medical support when they need it most.

Nathan Sterling’s Impact at CORE Center

Sterling, a Vincennes native, has been part of Daviess Community Hospital’s CORE Center since 2020. He holds a Master of Science in Athletic Training from the University of Indianapolis and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Evansville. His experience includes serving as head athletic trainer at Vincennes University in 2021, assistant athletic trainer at Pike Central High School in 2022, and athletic trainer at Barr-Reeve High School since 2020.

“Our goal as athletic trainers is to provide immediate care and long-term support for athletes and active individuals,” Sterling said. “Whether it’s an injury on the field or preventing one before it happens, we are here to help keep people safe, healthy, and performing at their best.”

Through the CORE Center’s athletic training program, Sterling and his colleagues provide:

• Emergency medical care for sports-related injuries
• Injury prevention programs to reduce the risk of strains, sprains, and concussions
• Rehabilitation guidance to help athletes recover safely
• Collaboration with physicians and healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive treatment plans
• Education for athletes, coaches, and parents on sports safety and injury prevention
• Customizable training programs tailored to schools, businesses, and organizations

"Having an athletic trainer on staff means having an expert who can not only treat injuries but also help athletes safely return to play," Sterling said. "It makes a real difference in injury recovery and prevention."

Supporting Athletes Every Step of the Way

Daviess Community Hospital is the exclusive provider of athletic training services at Barr-Reeve Community Schools.

From the moment an injury occurs to full recovery, the CORE Center athletic training team ensures that athletes receive the care they need at every stage. Whether it's providing on-the-field treatment, coordinating follow-up care with physicians, or overseeing rehabilitation programs, CORE Center’s athletic trainers are dedicated to keeping athletes healthy, active, and performing at their highest level.

Learn More About Athletic Training at CORE Center

As National Athletic Training Month is recognized across the country, Daviess Community Hospital and CORE Center extend their gratitude to athletic trainers for their dedication to keeping athletes, workers, and active individuals safe.

To learn more about athletic training services at CORE Center or to inquire about customized programs for your school, business, or sports organization, contact CORE Center today at (812) 254-8889.

CORE Center is committed to helping athletes stay in the game and perform at their best.

📍 CORE Center | 421 E. Van Trees Street, Washington, IN    

📍 CORE Center at North Daviess | 800 S. West Street, Odon, IN       

📞 Call (812) 254-8889 to learn more.