As the new full-time Athletic Trainer for Lakeland High School, Annaleza Jones, ATC, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for sports. The summer between her sophomore and junior year of high school, Annaleza seized an opportunity that would solidify her career path. “I went to a week-long Sports Medicine camp at Ball State University and fell in love with athletic training,” she shares. “I went back to my high school athletic trainer and started helping him in between sports seasons.” She found a sense of fulfillment in helping others, “Being able to stay involved with sports and help others is the best and I have no clue what else I would do if I wasn’t an athletic trainer.”
After high school, Annaleza attended Manchester University in Indiana, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training in 2012. she continued her education at California University of Pennsylvania, completing her Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a concentration in rehabilitation the following year. This educational foundation has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in her role.
Recently, she has joined the Nemours Children’s Health, Lakeland team where she serves as the full-time trainer for Lakeland High School. Annaleza enjoys having the comprehensive support and resources provided by Nemours Children’s Health. “Having a hospital system behind me that’s focused on adolescents is a huge benefit in the care for the athletes,” she shares.
Among the many rewarding aspects of her job, Annaleza finds her greatest joy in witnessing the transformation of her patients. Every day, she sees young athletes push their limits, overcome injuries, and grow into stronger, more confident individuals. “Being able to help others and stay around sports makes going to work everyday fun and unique,” says Annaleza. “No two days are ever the same which makes every day special as you never know what is going to come through the door.”
Her role as an athletic trainer is multifaceted, and one of the most significant aspects is her ability to support athletes. “I see athletes at their highest and at their lowest point in their careers,” says Annaleza. “Being able to get an athlete back playing safely from injuries (whether it’s an ankle sprain or an ACL surgery) is a challenge that I love to do. Not every injury is the same so being able to get creative with the rehabilitation to keep athletes engaged and focused is fun. There are times I spend only a few days with an athlete but there are others I can spend 3-9 months with them. The bond that is created in helping someone overcome injuries is one that can’t be taken lightly.”
From epic comebacks to personal bests, Annaleza’s career is filled with unforgettable moments that highlight her dedication and impact. In her few months in her current role, she has already found a sense of belonging and appreciation at both the high school and the Nemours clinic. One of her most cherished highlights from her 14-year career as a certified athletic trainer has been providing medical coverage for several state championship competitions, including soccer, cheerleading, volleyball, and baseball. She’s also had the opportunity to create a student sports medicine program at the high school level where she’s had two students go on to pursue careers in the medical field. As Annaleza continues to grow in her role at Nemours Children’s, it’s clear that her impact will only continue to expand.
