With 14 years of experience as a gymnast, Kelli Hansen knows the triumphs and challenges of competitive sports. She brings that wisdom to her role as athletic trainer at Star Valley High School and seeks to help student athletes achieve optimal health.
“I can understand when they want to try to work through an injury so they can keep competing,” says Kelli. “I know what it’s like to have to let yourself rest a little bit and come back better.”
Kelli provides rehabilitative treatments for athletes at SVHS, as well as support during practices and games. During the summer, she works as an aide at Star Valley Health’s physical therapy clinics, assisting patients of all ages who are recovering from surgeries and injuries.
Kelli describes the joy of seeing patients get back on their feet. “You just feel really happy for them, that they’re able to hurdle that milestone.”
For Dan Jeske, director of Star Valley Physical Therapy, Kelli exemplifies team spirit. “Kelli is able to get a feel for what each athlete needs. She loves to be with the teams and will do all she can to take care of them.”