Kerr receives CCCATA Athletic Trainer of the Year award

Debbie Kerr, is an award-winning certified athletic trainer. (Courtesy of Saddleback College)

Debbie Kerr, certified athletic trainer, has just won the prestigious CCCATA Athletic Trainer of the Year award. During an awards luncheon at the San Mateo Marriott she received the award that was nominated by her peers and ultimately chosen by her peers as the winner.

“It means a lot coming from my peers,” Kerr said. “It’s quite an honor and I’m truly honored and touched to be receiving this award.”

Kerr is clearly loved by her co-workers, not just because the nomination that led to the award, but also because what they say about her.

“I love her to death,” women’s equipment manager Kathleen Brennan said.  “Debbie is just a really great employee. She is really here for the students always.”

Along with always being there for the students, she is always quick to help a fellow employee.

The athletic trainers room where Kerr spends a lot of her time. (Sean Byrne)

“She never hesitates to jump in and help if I need it,” Brennan said.

Brennan was not alone with the positive things to say about Kerr.

“She works hard, [is] always on time, very dedicated, what else can you say,” certified athletic trainer Brad McReynolds said. “She is good to work with, never has a problem getting things done.”

Kerr, who first attended Santa Ana College, ultimately transferring to Cal State Long Beach where she obtained her physical education degree with an emphasis in athletic training. After that she joined the gauchos in 1998 and has been here ever since, she is a pivotal role in Saddlebacks athletic department.

“It’s a great college, I really love the community college level,” Kerr said. “It is unique.”

From attending a community college in her college year to her teaching at one today, it is evident that her added up experience has accumulated to something special.

“It’s a great environment to work in,” she said about Saddleback College.

With such a big award Kerr said, “It’s an individual award but it’s truly a team award.” She also thanked all administrative staff, fellow colleagues, and coaches she works with, as well as mentors she has had throughout the years.

Though Athletic Trainer of the Year award was a huge achievement for her, it wasn’t the best award she has ever received.

“The ultimate I guess reward for me is when our athletes are back on the field and able to compete to go for conference championships and state championships,” Kerr said.

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