SOCSD Celebrates National Athletic Training Month

March is National Athletic Training Month and this year’s theme is “Care You Can Count On.” SOCSD’s Head Athletic Trainer Jessica Lappe, supports more than 1,000 athletes across grades 7-12 with the prevention, care and reconditioning of injuries and by promoting overall wellness. 

"Jess Lappe is a vital part to the success of our Athletics program, and we are so very lucky to have her as our Athletic Trainer,” said Physical Education, Health and & Athletics Director Bill Pilla. “She is as knowledgeable as it gets in her field, and she is great with our student athletes, coaching staff and parents. We are so lucky to have her in South Orangetown!"

“She is an incredibly talented trainer, unbelievably kind and understanding and has never failed to make everyone feel better. I have known Jess throughout my athletic career in high school. She has this way of making someone feel better both inside and out. I can go to her for an injury so I can get taped but feel better purely because her kindness and willingness to listen made me feel better,” explained Senior Nina V., a player on the Girls Flag Football team. “I think she does so much for our athletic program and I have no idea how she keeps up with the never ending injuries and events. She deserves all the thank yous we could give and we couldn’t have a better athletic trainer at our school.” Her teammate Mia M. agrees. “I have known Jess since 8th grade, and I am truly grateful for everything she has done for me- from my first season playing to now, my final season representing TZ. Over the past five years, I have come to know Jess not only as an athletic trainer, but also as an incredible person. She genuinely cares about every athlete and supports each of us in whatever way we need. Even when the training room was full and she was extremely busy, Jess always found time to tape me or guide me through exercises to help manage my injuries, allowing me to perform at my best on the field. Her dedication, patience and compassion never went unnoticed, and I truly believe we don’t thank her enough for all that she does. Jess truly embodies what an athletic trainer, and more importantly, what a person, should be. Our athletic program would not be nearly as successful as it is today without her.”

Senior Bella V. noted, “Jess was probably the biggest part of my sports career at Tappan Zee that I never expected. She has been the absolute best when it comes to injury care and just caring in general. She always makes sure that everyone is taking care of and really listens when you’re talking to her, whether it’s about injuries or just how the season is going. I don’t know what I would do without Jess and I am so glad that we are celebrating her.”

Thank you for always going above and beyond for our athletes, Jess!