Josh Williamson Receives the VATA College/University Athletic Trainer of the Year Award

By Brian Laubscher
January 8, 2025

Josh Williamson, director of athletic training services and sport performance at Washington and Lee University, recently received the Virginia Athletic Trainers' Association (VATA) College/University Athletic Trainer of the Year Award.

The award recognizes excellence in athletic training practice, dedication to advancing the profession and significant contributions to patients and colleagues. 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.

Williamson was presented the award at the 2025 VATA Annual Meeting on Jan. 4 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center in Hampton, Virginia. He was one of five VATA members to receive one of the prestigious yearly honors. Williamson was joined by Dr. Thomas Campbell from Old Dominion University (Athletic Training Researcher of the Year), Andy Carter from Riverside Health System (Vito Perriello Secondary Schools Athletic Trainer of the Year), Dr. John Coots from Liberty University (Athletic Training Educator of the Year) and Meghan Shifflett from Sentara (Clinical & Emerging Practice Athletic Trainer of the Year). Williamson is the first representative of the university to be honored with an annual VATA award since the program began in 2012.

"I am deeply honored to receive the VATA's College/University Athletic Trainer of the Year Award," said Williamson. "This recognition is a testament to the unwavering support of my colleagues, mentors and the incredible team I am fortunate to work alongside. Together, we share a passion for ensuring the health and success of our student-athletes, and this award inspires me to continue striving for excellence in our profession."

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.

"Colleagues describe Josh as an exceptional, unselfish and genuine person who believes in respect, hard work, a positive attitude and accountability," said Kotelnicki. "He motivates others through his principled and 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. Throughout his career, Williamson has been a steadfast mentor, empowering peers and aspiring athletic trainers to approach challenges with foresight, confidence and enthusiasm.

Williamson began his W&L career in 2004 as assistant athletic trainer. He was promoted to associate athletic trainer in 2005 and was elevated to head athletic trainer in 2006. He earned his current title in 2019. Williamson holds bachelor's and master's degrees in athletic training from Indiana State University, and he earned a Doctor of Athletic Training degree from the University of Idaho.

The VATA is committed to improving the quality of health care for Virginians through education, advocacy, and cooperative efforts with other health care professionals and organizations. The association actively promotes the profession and represents the interests of its membership. The VATA is the liaison between the membership and the Mid-Atlantic and National Athletic Training Associations, the Board of Certification, Inc., the medical community and their respective state associations, the Virginia Board of Medicine and the Advisory Board on Athletic Training.

If you know a W&L faculty member who has done great, accolade-worthy things, tell us about them! Nominate them for an accolade.