It was the lack of a valuable resource that motivated Rock Valley Physical Therapy’s Vanessa Chavez, MAT, LAT, ATC, to chase her dream of becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer.
The athletic trainer at Sherrard (Illinois) High School, Chavez grew up on the Southeast side of Chicago, where citywide resources and funding deficits prevented her high school from providing an athletic trainer.
“There were plenty of times during games or practices where my teammates and I would have greatly benefited from having an athletic trainer,” the out-going and always-upbeat Chavez, said. “From saving money and time at doctors’ appointments, to learning how to properly (weight) lift to prevent injuries. Knowing I can make an impact in adolescents’ lives when I did not have those resources, motivated me to become an ATC.’’
Post-high school, Chavez chose Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, where she found the perfect setting and a wonderful opportunity to chase her dream of helping others.
“I chose Loras because of the small-knit community it is and the three-plus-two Masters of Athletic Training program,’’ she said of the school’s exceptional undergraduate and post-graduate program, designed specifically to benefit those seeking a career in athletic training. “It was nice going to college for five years and getting my master’s degree with professors and a community that truly cares about you.’’
Another perfect match awaited Chavez in Rock Valley Physical Therapy, where she encountered a caring and inviting entity that fosters her growth as a professional. A setting that allows her to have a tremendous impact on the student-athletes she works with each day.
“I knew Rock Valley was for me when they truly valued me as a person during my interviews,” Chavez said. “Most jobs will look for what you can do for the company with no regard to your mental and physical well-being, however Rock Valley is the complete opposite. They know that for me to do my best as an ATC, I will need to be at my best physically and mentally and they always make sure I am.’’
Her Rock Valley peers see Chavez as the perfect fit to “Make Better Lives,’ and have a positive impact on the Sherrard community.
“Vanessa brings knowledge, experience, confidence, and an infectious positive attitude to our group,” said Rock Valley’s Kaelene Kragenbrink- Voorhees ATC, LAT, CES, FMS. Athletic Trainer Davenport Assumption High School, Regional Coordinator of Athletic Training Services- Quad Cities Region. “She is extremely self-sufficient and can take on any new challenge. The Sherrard community has welcomed her with open arms as she continues to grow as a fantastic athletic trainer in her new community.’’
At Sherrard, Chavez has learned she is part of something special, a wonderful, close-knit, and inviting circle of amazing people.
“Sherrard is super-welcoming and is a close-knit community,” Chavez said. “Everyone supports everyone. I have had a smooth transition. Coaches, parents, and athletes are always asking if I need help with carrying my equipment and making sure I have everything I need. I feel appreciated and valued being their athletic trainer.’’
Sherrard, it must be noted, is a fan of Chavez.
“Vanessa has fit into Sherrard as easily as a Sherrard graduate,’’ said Lisa Emendorfer, Assistant Principal for Activities/Sherrard Jr./Sr. High. “Vanessa has quickly become an integral part of our team at Sherrard. Within 24 hours of starting her job, she delivered a dynamic and professional presentation to our coaching staff. Just a day later, she presented to our parents about her triage process, explaining when and how she would notify them about their child’s injuries and rehabilitation process. Vanessa is intuitive, responsive, and easy to work with. Her expertise and knowledge are evident to our staff, providing reassurance to our athletes and their parents.”
There are no guarantees in life, but Chavez vows that it does not take long to find your path. She also believes she is in the right place and doing something she would love to do for years to come.
“I am happy with a long career at the high-school level,” Chavez explained. “Adolescent teenagers need as much guidance, support, and empathy as possible. Knowing I can provide that for the athletes while keeping them safe in athletics is what keeps me going. It makes me feel like I am making a difference in the world, providing the care that I did not have but needed when I was in high school. I come to work to help my student athletes get better physically, mentally, and even emotionally. My office is a safe space for anything and everything.”
By: Johnny Marx, Rock Valley Storyteller