LEXINGTON, Va. – The Virginia Athletic Trainers' Association (VATA) has recognized Josh Williamson, Director of Athletic Training Services and Sports Performance at Washington and Lee University, as the 2025 College and University Athletic Trainer of the Year. The award was presented on January 4, 2025, during the VATA annual meeting in Hampton, Virginia.
The award recognizes excellence in athletic training practice, dedication to advancing the profession, and significant contributions to patients and colleagues alike. The nomination and voting process for this prestigious award adhered to stringent criteria established by the VATA, with nominations evaluated and voted on by the VATA Executive Council.
Selected from a competitive pool of athletic trainers across the Commonwealth, Williamson was praised for his outstanding practice standards, dedication to advancing the field of athletic training, and his profound impact on his colleagues and patients. VATA President Michael Kotelnicki highlighted Williamson's exemplary leadership and contributions during the award presentation.
"Josh has been an athletic trainer at Washington and Lee University for the past 20 years, where he currently serves as the Director of Athletic Training Services and Sports Performance," Kotelnicki remarked. "He is described by colleagues as an exceptional, unselfish, genuine person who believes in respect, hard work, a positive attitude, and accountability and who motivates others through his principled, passionate pursuit of excellence."
Williamson's commitment to continuing education and the promotion of athletic training is evident in his extensive volunteer work with the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) and the VATA, where he played a foundational role in establishing the VATA Leadership Academy. Over the course of his career, Williamson has served as a steadfast mentor, empowering peers and aspiring athletic trainers to approach challenges with foresight, confidence, and enthusiasm.
Kotelnicki concluded, "We are proud to have him supporting the continued growth of our profession."
Jan Hathorn, Washington and Lee's Michael F. Walsh Director of Athletics, added:
"We are thrilled that Josh has been recognized for his exceptional service to the athletic training profession through this award from the VATA. In the 20 years he has been an athletic trainer at Washington and Lee, he has distinguished himself as one of the best in the business. His selfless work ethic, attention to detail, high standards, and compassionate care are just a few of the traits that define him, not only as a professional but as a person. Josh is an authentic, thoughtful, and dedicated leader in our department, the conference, and the state, and we are truly grateful to have him on our staff. This recognition is a well-deserved honor for Josh."
Nestled in the mountains of Virginia, Washington and Lee University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Founded in 1749, W&L is the ninth-oldest college in the United States and a top-ranked liberal arts university. With over 500 student-athletes in 24 varsity sports, the Generals have celebrated over 265 conference championships. Learn more about the Blue and White by visiting www.generalssports.com or on social media at @WLUGenerals.
