NATA Now

August 29, 2025 by Beth Sitzler

NATA Foundation Celebrates Support at NATA 2025

Throughout the 76th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo, held June 24-27 in Orlando, attendees had opportunities to connect with and support the NATA Research & Education Foundation. 

“This year’s convention was a huge success for the NATA Foundation because it highlighted the strength of our community and the power of our mission,” said NATA Foundation Director Kathryn LaLonde. 

June 1, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

For the People and the Profession

To commemorate Pride Month throughout June, the NATA Now blog is highlighting members of the NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee and their impact on the profession.

NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee Chair Jen Sturtevant, MBA, LAT, ATC, found her love for athletic training in the intersection of sports and health care – people.

May 23, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

NATA Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Future

The NATA Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of recognition for members, honoring a select group of athletic trainers who have shaped the athletic training profession and exemplified what it means to live a life of service.

More than a ring, green jacket and plaque on the wall, the NATA Hall of Fame is an honor bestowed on those who have spent countless hours perfecting their skills, mentoring the next generation of ATs and imprinting a lasting impact on the athletic training profession.

May 18, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

NATA Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Advice to Give

The NATA Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of recognition for members, honoring a select group of athletic trainers who have shaped the athletic training profession and exemplified what it means to live a life of service.

More than a ring, green jacket and plaque on the wall, the NATA Hall of Fame is an honor bestowed on those who have spent countless hours perfecting their skills, mentoring the next generation of ATs and imprinting a lasting impact on the athletic training profession.

May 16, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

NATA Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Advice Received

The NATA Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of recognition for members, honoring a select group of athletic trainers who have shaped the athletic training profession and exemplified what it means to live a life of service.

More than a ring, green jacket and plaque on the wall, the NATA Hall of Fame is an honor bestowed on those who have spent countless hours perfecting their skills, mentoring the next generation of ATs and imprinting a lasting impact on the athletic training profession.

May 15, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

Compassionate Leadership in Action

In honor of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in May, the NATA Now blog is highlighting some of our Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders at the state, district and national levels.

At age 14, Nikki Awaya, MEd, ATC, already knew the athletic training profession was the right path for her.

Now an athletic trainer in the secondary school setting, Awaya said that while she enjoys seeing athletes win completions, it’s even more rewarding to see them win in life.

May 11, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

NATA Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Mentors

The NATA Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of recognition for members, honoring a select group of athletic trainers who have shaped the athletic training profession and exemplified what it means to live a life of service.

More than a ring, green jacket and plaque on the wall, the NATA Hall of Fame is an honor bestowed on those who have spent countless hours perfecting their skills, mentoring the next generation of ATs and imprinting a lasting impact on the athletic training profession.

May 9, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

NATA Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Memorable Moments

The NATA Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of recognition for members, honoring a select group of athletic trainers who have shaped the athletic training profession and exemplified what it means to live a life of service.

More than a ring, green jacket and plaque on the wall, the NATA Hall of Fame is an honor bestowed on those who have spent countless hours perfecting their skills, mentoring the next generation of ATs and imprinting a lasting impact on the athletic training profession.

May 8, 2023 by Lydia Hicks

Leading in Advocacy and Change

In honor of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in May, the NATA Now blog is highlighting some of our Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders at the state, district and national levels.

For someone with many educational and career opportunities to choose from, California Athletic Trainers’ Association (CATA) Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee Chair Monica Ohkubo, DSc, ATC, EMT-B, said she was not sure which direction to take in the early years of her professional journey.