ITHACA, N.Y. – Earlier this semester, Mike Matheny was named the head athletic trainer of the year for Division III intercollegiate athletics by the National Athletic Trainers Association. The official recognition of Matheny's award was announced on the NATA August/September newsletter that is sent out to athletic trainers across the country.

Each year the Intercollegiate Council for Sports Medicine recognizes one individual for exceptional performance as a head athletic trainer in each of the following collegiate divisions: NCAA D1, NCAA D2, NCAA D3, NAIA, Junior College/Community College and Club/Intramural/Recreational Sports. Award recipients are actively involved in their community or campus, athletic training associations and promotion of the profession.
 

• Currently employed as a full-time Head Athletic Trainer (or equivalent) in a collegiate setting
•  Professional experience in a collegiate setting (does not have to be continuous or at the same institution)
• Experience as Head Athletic Trainer (or equivalent)

Matheny has been an athletic trainer within the IC department of athletics and a clinical professor in exercise science and athletic training at Ithaca College since 1987. On the athletics side, Matheny works directly with the Bomber men's lacrosse and men's soccer teams. As a professor, he currently teaches Seminar in Athletic Training and Athletic Training Techniques III.

Over the past two years, Matheny has played an integral role in the college's implementation of COVID-19 testing and protocols. Alongside team physician, Dr. Andrew Getzin, director of athletics Susan Bassett '79 and the health and safety committee, Ithaca College has developed and implemented one of the most comprehensive and successful COVID testing guidelines in the country.