New Orleans East Hospital Sports Medicine Dept., New Orleans Recreation Department Commission Host Coach Certification Clinic

NEW ORLEANS – Each year, the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) conducts mandatory training for all of its new and existing volunteer coaches. This year, New Orleans East Hospital partnered with NORDC to increase its impact and involvement with New Orleans youth and young athletes. The clinic, held Saturday, July 15, at University Medical Center, 2000 Canal St., featured discussions lead by some of the Louisiana’s top athletic trainers and athletes, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

         The keynote speaker was Louisiana’s most recognized high school coach, Coach J.T. Curtis, Head Coach of JT Curtis Christian High School.

         Sessions focused on proper training techniques, equipment fitting, safety precautions, concussion awareness and hydration, as well as best practices to ensure athletes are prepared for the rigors of the game. Sessions provided a mixture of hands on and lecture style instruction.

         New Orleans East Hospital Director of Sports Medicine, Tim Simmons addressed the coaches and lead one of the mini breakout sessions. Physicians from New Orleans East Hospital and Troy Drayton, former NFL player and USA Football Master Trainer were also in attendance.

         At the end of the clinic, coaches earned a mandatory NORDC Volunteer Coach Training Certification and a co-branded first aid kit for their playground and team. The first aid kits were produced and provided by New Orleans East Hospital.