March is National Athletic Training Month and a time to recognize the important role Certified Athletic Trainers employed by Fairfax County Public Schools play in keeping our students safe. This year’s theme, “There’s an AT for That”, reflects the multifaceted role FCPS Athletic Trainers play in promoting the health and safety of our student-athletes before, during and after practices and competitions. Nationally certified, state-licensed medical professionals, FCPS Athletic Trainers provide comprehensive healthcare services, which are guided by the 5 domains they are educated and trained in: (I) Injury/Illness Prevention & Wellness Promotion, (II) Examination, Assessment, & Diagnosis, (III) Immediate & Emergency Care, (IV) Therapeutic Intervention, and (V) Healthcare Administration & Professional Responsibility. FCPS’ Athletic Trainers consistently go above and beyond to support our athletic programs and without question are essential members of each school’s activities program. During the 2021-22 school year, FCPS athletic trainers provided care to over 9,500 individual student-athletes, treating more than 19,700 injuries. Even when faced with unprecedented circumstances, FCPS athletic trainers play a vital role in our overall efforts to support athletic opportunities for all FCPS students.

Meet Kristyn Wharton, MS, LAT, ATC

Kristyn (Ms. K) has been a licensed and Certified Athletic Trainer since 2011, and has worked in the secondary school setting since 2012. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training from Averett University, where she also played four years of collegiate basketball. Go Cougars! She then went on to accept a graduate assistantship from the University of Florida, where she received a Master of Science degree in Applied Physiology & Kinesiology. Go Gators! Ms. K worked at King George High School (King George, VA) for two years, before accepting a position at Lake Braddock in 2014. She initially spent her days in the building as an Instructional Assistant and her evenings as the Associate Athletic Trainer (ATC2). In 2018, she accepted the ATC1 position. Ms. K grew up and continues to live in Arlington, VA with her 4 year old husky mix, Chewie.

Meet Brittany Arndt, MS, LAT, ATC

Brittany (Ms. A) became a Certified Athletic Trainer in 2020 upon receiving her Master of Science degree in Athletic Training from Shenandoah University. She also attended SU for undergrad, where she studied Biology and was a member of the Women's Lacrosse team. Go Hornets! She joined as the Associate Athletic Trainer (ATC2) in 2020, and also serves as a 9th grade Physical Education teacher and Sports Medicine teacher within the building. Ms. A grew up in Maryland and now resides in Virginia with her fiance and 1 year old bernedoodle, Diana.

Check out more information on the Lake Braddock Athletic website.