Celebrating Athletic Therapy Month at Okanagan Hockey Ontario: The Team Behind the Team
Championing innovation, education, and advocacy to elevate Athletic Therapy and empower both therapists and the communities they serve across Ontario.
June is Athletic Therapy Month, and at Okanagan Hockey Ontario, we’re proud to highlight the passionate professionals working behind the scenes to keep our student-athletes healthy, resilient, and ready to perform at their highest level.
Athletic Therapy: More Than Injury Response
Athletic Therapy goes far beyond treating injuries. It’s a specialized healthcare discipline that combines clinical assessment, emergency care, rehabilitation, and proactive injury prevention. At its heart, Athletic Therapy is about optimizing performance and supporting athletes through every stage of their development.
Integrated Athlete Care, Every Day
At many hockey academies, Athletic Therapists are only present on game day. At Okanagan Hockey Ontario, our Certified Athletic Therapists (ATs) are embedded in the daily routine of our student-athletes. From early-morning treatment sessions to practice support and in-game emergency response, our ATs play a central role in the holistic development and care of every athlete.
Meet Jaime Medranda – Head Athletic Therapist
Jaime earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology & Health Sciences and completed his Certificate in Athletic Therapy at York University in 2021. Shortly after becoming a Certified Athletic Therapist through the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA), Jaime joined the OHO team and was promoted to Head Athletic Therapist in 2023.
With over five years of experience working with collegiate athletes, Jaime brings a deep understanding of high-performance care. He is currently pursuing his Registered Massage Therapist designation, further expanding his expertise to better serve our athletes.
What Is a Certified Athletic Therapist?
Athletic Therapists are highly educated healthcare professionals—not to be confused with general “trainers.” To become certified in Canada, candidates must:
- Complete a degree in Kinesiology or a related field
- Graduate from an accredited Athletic Therapy program
- Accumulate extensive hands-on experience through clinical and field practicums
- Pass the national certification exam through the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA)
Once certified, therapists must stay current through ongoing education and professional development.
Professional Support through ATAO
Our team is proud to be supported by the Athletic Therapists Association of Ontario (ATAO)—a provincial organization dedicated to advancing the profession and promoting high standards of care across Ontario.
ATAO membership includes access to:
- Continuing education and certification opportunities
- Advocacy within the sports and healthcare communities
- Legal and professional insurance coverage
- Peer networking and mentorship
- Promotion of best practices in athletic environments
Learn more at www.ontarioathletictherapists.com
A Lasting Impact on Athlete Health and Performance
At Okanagan Hockey Ontario, our Athletic Therapists play a vital role in our athlete-centered care model. They:
- Reduce injury risk through screening, movement analysis, and education
- Provide immediate emergency care (all are trained First Responders)
- Design and oversee individualized rehab and return-to-play programs
- Collaborate closely with coaches, strength coaches, and families
Their influence extends beyond the treatment room—it’s seen in every shift our athletes take on the ice.
Join Us in Saying Thank You
This June, we honour and thank the dedicated Athletic Therapists who make it all possible. Your commitment, expertise, and compassion are essential to our mission and to the success of every athlete we serve.
To every Certified Athletic Therapist in Ontario and beyond:
Thank you. We see your impact. We value your contribution. And we’re stronger because of you.
