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Sports Medicine (JDCH)

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Orthopedic Center & [U18] Sports Medicine exclusively provide athletic training services for the 29 public high schools in Broward County. Their team of more than 11 pediatric fellowship‑trained surgeons and sports medicine physicians, along with physical therapists and certified athletic trainers, work together to care for all 18,000+ student‑athletes in the county. Whether it’s emergency injury care, rehabilitation, injury prevention, education, or concussion management, our team is here for your student‑athlete. In the moments that count, we trust the experts in pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine.

2025-2026 Athletic Trainers of the Year

                                                   

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

 

 

 

 

 

South Athletic Trainer of the Year: Valarie Smith (Right) 

This month we’re proud to recognize Valarie Smith, ATC, NASM-CPT, CMAA, Athletic Trainer at Cooper City High School and Broward South Athletic Trainer of the Year. Originally from Crystal Lake, Illinois, Valarie earned her Bachelor’s degree from American Military University and her Master’s from Florida International University.

Her passion for athletic training began in high school through a student aide program, and her path to the profession included serving in the U.S. Navy while completing her education. During her graduate training, she gained experience in the high school setting, a hospital clinic, and through an NFL internship with the New Orleans Saints, ultimately finding her passion working with student-athletes. In addition to her role as an athletic trainer, she balances continued military service, teaching, and family life.

What she values most is the connection with her athletes—supporting them through challenges, recovery, and growth—while being part of a strong, supportive athletic department at Cooper City High School.

North Athletic Trainer of the Year: Julia Rizopoulos (Left) 

This month we’re proud to recognize Julia Rizopoulos, Head Athletic Trainer at Coral Springs High School and Broward North Athletic Trainer of the Year. Originally from a suburb of Chicago, Julia earned her Bachelor’s in Exercise Science from Florida Atlantic University and her Master’s in Athletic Training from Florida International University, and also holds a BFR certification.

Her passion for athletic training developed after observing an AT during her undergraduate years, combining her interests in sports and science into a career path. Prior to athletic training, she spent several years in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment where she built strong skills in communication, problem-solving, and leadership—skills she now applies daily in supporting athletes and managing high-pressure situations.

Julia values the strong support system around her and the relationships she builds with her athletes and student aides, bringing both professionalism and positivity to her work. Outside of athletic training, she enjoys working out, cooking, and exploring creative outlets.