Full-time Athletic Trainer Approved

The School Committee agreed Monday, June 20 to hire a full-time athletic trainer, citing the expansion of sports offerings.

The full-time position will replace the part-time contract services now provided by South County Physical Therapy. The company will no longer provide services as of July 1, Athletic Director Karah Ellis told the committee.

A full-time trainer would be able to be present at all practices, which is not the case currently, Ellis said. The person would also travel to away games.

The new position would earn about $40,000 to $45,000. The current cost is $27,000.

Superintendent of Schools Joseph Connors said the difference in costs could be found in the personnel budget.

Ellis said the new post would be particularly important in light of statewide emphasis on concussion care and prevention. Grafton athletes suffered 14 concussions this school year, Ellis said.

Committee member Donna Stock called the newly expanded position “a wise investment on our part.’’