ATHENS, W.Va. – With so many new faces around the Carter Center for the 2025-26 school year, the Concord Sports Information Department will be highlighting all full-time employees in a Get to Know series throughout the first few weeks of the new athletic year.
Whether those friendly faces have been in Athens for five days or five decades, you'll know more about everyone in the Concord Athletic Department.
Name: Kate Wood
Position: Athletic Trainer
College: Concord University (Bachelor's), Wingate University (Master's)
Years at Concord: 4
How did you land at Concord?
After I graduated I went to grad school at Wingate university, when I finished my master's degree there Concord reached out and asked if I would interested in a full time athletic training position.
Tell us a little bit about where you're from.
I'm from Braxton County in central West Virginia. It is a small-town, close-knit community that is similar to nearby Princeton.
What's been your most rewarding experience as an athlete or coach?
One of the most rewarding things I've experienced as an athletic trainer at Concord is being able to be the go to person when injury strikes. Being able to be the person that the athlete and coach puts their complete trust in is an unexplainable feeling. It's not just about getting the athlete back to participating, but also making sure they mentally ready to return. It can be stressful for sure, but the relationships it builds are pretty amazing ones.
Outside of family, who's had the biggest positive influence on your life?
Mike Cox. Don't know where I'd be without him.
What makes Concord such a special place?
100 percent the people. I know if I need help either professionally or personally I can call up any of my colleagues and they will be there to help, or know someone who can.
Favorite vacation spot?
Douglas Lake, Michigan
Go-to junk food?
Hot dogs
What advice would you give today's college student that you have found most valuable?
Do what you're supposed to do. Don't take the easy way out. Hold yourself accountable.
What's one bucket list item that you have crossed off and are most proud of?
Ran a couple marathons. Times weren't great, but I still did them.
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