Carbondale Reporter

About 40 coaches from various educational programs in Southern Illinois gathered on March 28 at Legends at Walker’s Bluff for the 8th Annual SIH Coaches Clinic. This event aimed to provide practical tips, expert insights, and solutions to help maintain the health and readiness of student-athletes.

The free, full-day clinic offered four Continuing Professional Development Units (CPDUs), breakfast, and breakout sessions to improve coaching practices and ensure athlete safety. Participants engaged in sessions led by specialists from Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) and Southern Illinois University Carbondale, focusing on athletic training, sports medicine, and strength and conditioning.

“This clinic is all about supporting our local coaches and providing them with the knowledge they need to foster safer, stronger sports environments for student-athletes,” said Sarai Yates, certified athletic trainer and SIH sports medicine coordinator. “We’re proud to see this event continue to grow every year.”

Brad Brush from SIH, a certified athletic trainer and strength and conditioning specialist with over thirty years of experience, conducted a practical breakout session on sideline first aid. He demonstrated essential techniques such as wound care, icing, and wrapping injuries. “Something as simple as putting on an ice bag or treating a blister can make a difference in recovery,” said Brush. “This clinic allows us to step away from the intensity of game days and really connect with coaches in a more relaxed, meaningful way.”

Todd Tripp, Goreville Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach, praised the clinic for its practical value. “I look forward to this every year. It’s a great chance to ask questions, learn new things and pick up little tips that really help our athletes,” he said. “Even something like learning how to properly use heat or ice, or how a simple dollar store salve can help it’s those practical takeaways that make this so worthwhile.”

Nikolai Laitamaki, an SIH athletic trainer covering Goreville and Anna-Jonesboro schools, acknowledged the event's unique collaborative opportunity. “It’s a great chance to connect with other coaches and trainers and learn from each other,” he said. “Even after 26 years in the field, I still walk away learning something new.”

The SIH Coaches Clinic continues to enhance the relationship between healthcare professionals and local coaches, supporting the safety, performance, and overall well-being of student-athletes in the region.