Rock Valley Physical has been selected to provide sports medicine coverage for the 2024 IHSAA Class 3A and Class 4A boys state baseball finals.
The tournament, set for Monday-Friday, July 22-26, will be held at the 5,300-seat Veterans Memorial Stadium, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Held the past three seasons at the University of Iowa’s Duane Banks Field, the tournament is moving for the 2024 campaign due to renovations to the university’s baseball complex.
“Working state events are always an awesome and unique opportunity for our athletic trainers and company,’’ said Rock Valley Physical Therapy’s Misti Thompson, LAT, ATC, Regional Athletic Training Coordinator/ Cedar Rapids Xavier High School.
“A lot of the schools we cover have a history of making state runs in multiple sports, so many of our athletic trainers cover with their own teams,’’ Thompson added. “Being able to be there as the sports-medicine provider will offer a unique perspective and a chance to watch the tournament in its entirety. This will also be a fantastic opportunity to highlight Rock Valley Physical Therapy to spectators, coaches, families, and other community members who may need our services.’’
Thompson says a trio of Rock Valley athletic trainers will be assigned to cover quarterfinal, semi-final, and final-round action of the tournament. IAHSAA officials requested two per game.
“Three for now and I will be on call,’’ Thompson said. “My job is to organize, but I am sure I will work a game or two. I do not have attendance figures for past state tournaments, but it attracts great crowds. What a fantastic opportunity for Rock Valley athletic trainers – to work in a professional baseball setting – though most have had the chance to experience collegiate stadiums through their schooling. But for most of our staff this will present a new experience and one we are all looking forward to.’’
By: Johnny Marx, Rock Valley Storyteller