Clifton school board approves agreement for new athletic trainer

During its regular board meeting on Monday, June 17, 2024, the Clifton ISD Board of Trustees approved a new interlocal cooperation agreement with the Bosque County Hospital District for the provision of an athletic trainer.

This collaboration with Goodall-Witcher Hospital will enhance support for studentathletes in the school district.

Clifton ISD Superintendent Andy Ball opened the discussion by recounting the board’s ongoing efforts to secure an athletic trainer. Despite previous challenges, Ball highlighted a suggestion by former board member Courtney Mayfield to engage Goodall-Witcher Hospital, similar to past arrangements with the city for a School Resource Officer (SRO).

Ball credited the successful agreement to the efforts of Adam Willmann, CEO of Goodall-Witcher Hospital, and Brent Finney, Clifton ISD’s Athletic Director.

'A lot of credit goes to Mr. Willmann and Coach Finney,' Ball said. 'They took our previous interlocal agreements for the SRO and trainer, worked through the details with their teams, and we finalized the terms after legal review.'

Under the new agreement, Goodall-Witcher Hospital will hire the athletic trainer, while Clifton ISD will contribute to the salary. This arrangement leverages the hospital’s resources and expertise, offering a streamlined solution for the district.

Addressing the board, Willmann elaborated on the role and benefits of the new athletic trainer.

'The trainer will be certified in Texas and part of our physical therapy department,' Willmann explained.

He emphasized the potential for expanded services during off-seasons and highlighted the hospital’s efforts to provide additional support and resources. This includes consulting agreements with experienced trainers from the Methodist program in San Antonio and collaborations with Dr. Battle at Coryell Health for orthopedic services.

Willmann also mentioned plans to establish a sports clinic for treating injuries, ensuring student-athletes have access to timely medical care.

'We want to ensure that our athletes and any students needing attention for injuries receive the best possible care and return to their activities promptly,' he said.

The board members expressed their support for the initiative. Clifton ISD Board President Julie New praised the cooperation between the district and the hospital.

'It's great for both entities to work together,' she noted, underscoring the mutual benefits of the agreement.

Board member Josh Ritzman inquired about the hospital's plans for the athletic trainer during slower periods, such as summer. Willmann confirmed that the trainer would continue to work on speed and power training with athletes, maintaining engagement and building relationships with coaches and students.

Following the discussion, Ritzman made a motion to approve the interlocal cooperation agreement, which was seconded by board trustee Matthew Domel. The motion passed with a majority vote, with one abstention from trustee Heather Willmann due to her relationship with the hospital CEO.

Superintendent Ball expressed gratitude for the board's approval, marking a step forward in enhancing the district’s athletic support services.

For more information about Clifton ISD’s athletic programs or the new athletic trainer services, please contact the Clifton ISD administration office or Goodall-Witcher Hospital.

The next Clifton ISD School Board meeting on Monday, July 22, 2024, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held in the boardroom, located in Clifton Middle School at 1102 KeyAvenue in Clifton.