Alum returns to Saint Viator as athletic trainer

Saint Viator High School announced the hiring of alumnus Arika Cozzi ('08), as the school's new athletic trainer. Cozzi began her role in early March.

In making the announcement, Saint Viator Athletic Director Jason Kuffel noted Cozzi's extensive experience working with high schools in the area and in Arizona, and her desire to specifically work in a Catholic school environment.

"While we are replacing an athletic trainer who had been with us for more than a decade, we are very pleased to have found someone with Arika's background to step right in," Kuffel said. "The fact that she is a Saint Viator graduate and understands the mission, vision, and values we embrace academically, athletically, and spiritually makes for an outstanding fit."

Cozzi has done extensive research while pursuing her master's and doctorate, and has been published multiple times in the athletic training field. She is excited to get started at her alma mater.

"Even though I have been gone for just over a decade, the facilities at Saint Viator have undergone a dramatic transformation," Cozzi said. "The state-of-the-art weight room and technology used in the Murphy Wellness Center are among the best I've seen, and provide substantial benefits to Saint Viator athletes and students for sport performance training, injury prevention, and rehab."

Cozzi feels that the role of an athletic trainer at the high school level requires detailed communication with families and medical professionals when students are recovering from injuries.

"Sports medicine, in particular, requires teamwork from all parties. I take seriously the responsibility of coordinating those efforts for the benefit of the young men and women at Saint Viator."

Cozzi had three siblings who also graduated from Saint Viator - Amanda (Cozzi) Grimes '06, Lauren Cozzi '09, Kristen Cozzi '11.

For information, visit www.saintviator.com.

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