There’s a new face hovering on the sidelines of games this year.  Katie Brodka is replacing Jessica Horn as the school’s athletic trainer as part of a pilot program through MedStar Sports Medicine for MCPS. 

Horn, who was the school’s trainer last year, is now working full-time for Dr. Douogouih, a MedStar orthopedic surgeon for the Washington Nationals. Brodka also works for Douogouih part time as a physician extender, providing pre-evaluations for patients.

Brodka started interning for MedStar National Rehab Hospital after taking a medical careers class while attending Sherwood High School.  This class inspired her to continue her study of sports medicine.

She moved on to study athletic training and play lacrosse at Central Connecticut State University, where she took care of womens soccer, womens volleyball and baseball.

After college, Brodka wanted to move away from the collegiate level’s hectic travel schedule and move back to the area. Through her previous high school experience with MedStar, she knew the company well, and was able to jump back into the profession with a higher understanding of the field.

Brodka is now a Senior Lead Athletic Trainer.  This means she oversees the other MedStar athletic trainers in the county that are also a part of the pilot program.  The program initially started in order to address the growing awareness of concussions.

“Everyone is a lot more aware of [concussions] now,” Brodka said. “That’s part of the reason why this job exists: the county has taken a new stance on concussions testing and awareness.”

She said that her expertise in helping with injuries is technically just an added benefit. While Brodka handles a variety of conditions, she has been working mostly with concussed athletes.

Senior Alex Harris, who recently suffered a concussion, worked closely with Brodka, completing a five-step program before being cleared to play again.

From using the treadmill and bikes, to doing strength work and lunges, Harris said that Brokda was key in his efficient recovery.

While Brodka has been busy with fall sports injuries, she knows that her work is much needed.

“MCPS has been a little behind the times and they’re finally catching up,” Brodka said. “This is the second year of a pilot program that hopefully sticks and makes a big difference for everybody.”