SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Emily DeGroot, who has significant experience in athletic training at the NCAA DII level, has been named Head Athletic Trainer at the University of Sioux Falls, according to an announcement today by USF Director of Athletics Pam Gohl.
 
In her new position, DeGroot will oversee the athletic training program at USF.
 
"At USF, Emily (DeGroot) will use her knowledge and training to provide our student-athletes with the experience of enjoying their time participating in sporting activities, primarily by injury prevention, and by providing the best possible care if they are injured. Those steps will foster a safe return to play and activity," said Gohl. "Emily offers a wealth of experience that will benefit our athletes in the various sports. In addition, her leadership skills and enthusiasm will also build on a strong tradition in athletic training at USF."

As Head Athletic Trainer at USF, DeGroot's responsibilities will include organizing injury prevention programs, and injury evaluations, management, treatment and rehabilitation. She will coordinate coverage of athletic training services for events and staffing for home and road sports teams.  She also will oversee the administration of physical examinations, medical referrals and assessments on an athlete's status for practice and competition. Additionally, DeGroot is in charge of developing and enforcing infectious disease control protocols and testing, overseeing concussion management and protocols, administering conditioning programs, rehabilitation programs, and strength and endurance training.

"I am so thankful for this opportunity to continue my career at USF. It is an honor to be officially joining the Cougar family. USF is a special place, and I am grateful to be working for a university that values faith so highly among academic and athletic excellence," said DeGroot.

A native of Raymond, Minn., DeGroot, who graduated from MACCRAY High School in 2011, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training in May 2015 from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. Later in May 2017, she received a Master of Science degree in Kinesiology and Sport Psychology from A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Mo.

Prior to joining the USF training staff, DeGroot was assistant athletic trainer and head dance coach at Northwestern College for two years (2015-17). She joined the athletic training staff at Avera Health in Sioux Falls in 2017, working as head athletic trainer at Canton High School (2017-18) and later as assistant athletic trainer at the University of Sioux Falls (2018-2021). 

DeGroot is a certified athletic trainer (ATC) through the BOC, licensed in South Dakota (LAT), and is a member of the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA).
Emily lives in Sioux Falls with her husband, Dan.