Sports are very important to student life here at Carmel. School spirit and the overall environment are changed when our sports teams succeed. What most people do not see are the women behind the victories: Carlee Hickman and Briley Waters.

Hickman grew up in Charlotte and went to Weddington High School. She is married to her husband, Ret, and expecting her first child soon! She also has a dog. Hickman holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science of Athletic Training after attending Western Carolina University. Meanwhile, Waters is from Washington, North Carolina, which is about five hours from Charlotte. She is engaged and soon to be married! Waters is an animal lover as she has two cats and two dogs. She earned her Master’s degree in Athletic Training from UNC Charlotte.

When asked what led her to be an athletic trainer, Hickman said “I ran in college and experienced injuries, which sparked an interest in athletic training for me. I was originally a biology major, but I found a passion in working with athletes.” Hickman has been working at Carmel for a total of six years, creating a community here. During her time here, Hickman has worked with Waters, who is newer to Carmel as she started working here two years ago. Both Hickman and Waters appreciate the interactive opportunities they get to have with athletes as they love to watch their students grow and heal from injuries. Waters states, “I love building connections with the athletes and staff,” while Hickman adds “I enjoy seeing athletes being able to progress back to their sport and being a part of their recovery process.”

The trainers arrive at school every day at 11 and, during the fall season, stay until 6:30. They spend their time providing rehab and evaluation services for those who need them. At the end of their days, they go to different sports practices. The trainers deal with all sorts of issues, but a common ailment they see is tendinitis, the inflammation of a tendon. This often occurs due to overworking, or overexertion of the body. Waters notes that ankle sprains and hip flexor injuries are also very common among athletes as they come from the overextending of ligaments. Luckily, both trainers are well prepared for situations like as they deal with them on the daily.

Hickman and Waters have not only impacted student-athletes by helping them manage injuries but also by building connections with students and making countless memories. Hickman recounts that a memorable experience she had on the job was when the soccer team won the state championship in 2020 despite not having half of our starters because of COVID-19. Hickman stated she is grateful for her role in nursing back the numerous injuries and helping prepare the team for such an important game. 

Hickman and Waters reveal the dedication and care that athletic trainers provide to student-athletes, making priceless contributions to their practices, games, and overall experience. They are a crucial part of the Carmel community as they bring life into our athletes, and in turn, to our school spirit. The trainers’ effect on our community is strong and they will always be needed.