CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Several student female athletes at Mother McAuley High School in Mount Greenwood celebrated one of their favorite athletic trainers for International Women’s Day and recognized her with special tickets to a country music show.
Amanda MacNab, a mentor on and off the field to her school community, has touched many lives at the liberal arts high school during her four years at the school, said athletic director Laurie Jakubczak, calling her an incredible addition to the McAuley athletics team.
“She truly cares about our student athletes,” said Jakubczak of MacNab. “Amanda not only treats their injuries, but cares about our student as people. Amanda has a wonderful relationship with students, coaches and parents and it was great to see her receive this special honor.”
“The students here are the best, they’re really great women,” said MacNab. “I love working with them every day. I am excited to see where they end up.”
Mother McAuley senior Caitlin Fitzsimons, a soccer player, praised MacNab for helping her with an injury last year. She said the trainer taught her how to wrap her own leg during club season and influenced her to play her best while taking care of her body.
“In the end, the number one goal was keeping me on the field, and Amanda was a big reason why I wasn’t sidelined," the student said.
MacNab didn’t play soccer but the sport runs in her family. Her cousin is Brad Guzan, the starting goalie for the U.S. Men's Soccer National Team and Atlanta United, who the Chicago Fire will host in its home opener on March 21.
In addition to highlighting impactful women this weekend, MacNab was also honored as part of March’s National Athletic Training Month, a time to celebrate the positive impact that athletic trainers have on life and sport.