Athetic Training

Our Athletic Training program provides dedicated, hands-on support to help student athletes stay safe, healthy, and ready to perform. Under the direction of Vernon Health physicians, our Licensed Athletic Trainers work closely with local schools to prevent injuries, evaluate concerns, and guide recovery. We focus on clear communication, timely care, and the wellbeing of every athlete we serve. From on-field emergencies to long-term rehabilitation needs, our team is here to support athletes throughout their season and beyond.

Key Services We Provide

Our athletic trainers offer a range of supportive services designed to keep student athletes safe, healthy, and performing their best.

Injury Prevention

Our Licensed Athletic Trainers offer education, evaluation, and on-site support to help reduce the risk of sports-related injuries. We work directly with athletes and coaches to promote safe training and proper technique.

Concussion Management

Our team supports athletes through concussion recognition, symptom monitoring, and safe return-to-play guidance. We help students and families understand what to expect during recovery.

Injury Assessment & Care

We provide immediate assessment of emergency, acute, and chronic conditions during practices and home events. Our goal is to identify concerns early and ensure athletes receive the care they need.

Performance & Wellness

From sports performance training to office ergonomics and skinfold testing, we offer services that help athletes and community members improve strength, form, and overall wellbeing.

Program Details

Our athletic training program provides injury prevention, evaluation, and support for individuals and teams, with a focus on safe participation and long-term performance.

Outreach Athletic Training for Local Schools

Vernon Health provides ongoing coverage for practices and home events at La Farge, Kickapoo, Westby, and Viroqua School Districts. Our presence ensures timely support for student athletes and consistent communication with families and coaches.

Sports Performance CAMP

This program helps athletes build strength, agility, and confidence through structured training. Our trainers emphasize proper movement patterns and safe progression to support long-term performance.

Office Ergonomics & Skinfold Testing

We offer ergonomic assessments to support workplace comfort and injury prevention, along with skinfold testing for individuals interested in monitoring health and fitness goals.

Concussion Awareness

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head or body. Symptoms may appear immediately or may take several hours to develop. Loss of consciousness is not required for a concussion to occur, which is why all head injuries should be taken seriously.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Athletes may show one or many concussion symptoms, including:

Headache
Nausea
Dizziness or unsteadiness
Sensitivity to light or noise
Feeling mentally foggy
Confusion or slowed responses
Behavioral changes
Memory concerns

If an athlete displays even one symptom, they must be removed from play.
When in doubt, sit them out.

Helpful Resources

For more information, visit:

Student Athlete Forms

Full Physical Exam Form

WIAA Full Physical Exam Form

Alternate Year Card

WIAA Alternate Year Card

FAQ

Have questions about care at Vernon Health? Our team is here to help. For more information or to speak with someone about your care, please call (608) 637-2101.

What does the Athletic Training program involve?

Our program provides on-site injury prevention, evaluation, and rehabilitation support for student athletes. Licensed Athletic Trainers work under physician direction to care for emergency, acute, and chronic sports-related conditions.

Which schools receive athletic training services?

Vernon Health provides outreach athletic training coverage for La Farge, Kickapoo, Westby, and Viroqua School Districts. This ensures timely support during practices and home events.

How does Vernon Health support concussion care?

Our team evaluates symptoms, monitors progress, and helps guide athletes through a safe return to activity. We focus on clear communication with families, coaches, and healthcare providers.

Who provides athletic training at Vernon Health?

Our Licensed Athletic Trainers—Matt Durrstein, Fean Wagner, Nicole Robinson, and Maisie Boehm—bring specialized training in orthopedics, functional movement, concussion care, and wellness.

Are additional wellness services available?

Yes. We offer sports performance training, ergonomic assessments, and skinfold testing to support athletes and community members interested in improving health and performance.

Here for Your Health

At Vernon Health, we’re committed to providing patient-centered, compassionate care wherever you are in your health journey. Explore our trusted providers and convenient locations to find the right support for you.