Student & Parents

Functional Physical Therapy has worked in cooperation with Waterford School District since 2002 providing Certified Athletic Trainers in Mott High School and Kettering High School. When Functional Physical Therapy took over the medical contract for the school district only varsity events and a few practices a week were attended by Athletic Trainers. Since that time the on-site medical coverage for the high schools sports teams has increased to the point where all athletic events are covered by sports medicine professionals.

Besides the increase of medical coverage for the athletes, Functional Physical Therapy has also implemented a program for students to be seen by physical therapists without appointment for a post-injury evaluation. This can be helpful to injured athletes because Functional Physical Therapy has a close network of physicians and Orthopedic Surgeons that will give priority appointment times to students, which can result in shorter waiting periods.

Another highly popular program started by Functional Physical Therapy is the twice weekly sessions of physical therapy in the schools. On Tuesdays and Thursdays student athletes, with prescriptions for physical therapy, are seen for appointments. All facilities within the schools including the training room, the fitness center and the pool are utilized for the treatment of the student athletes. This allows students who are unable to drive to still be able to attend physical therapy. It is also convenient for those students who are active in a sport to be able to get to practice easily after their appointment is done.

These programs all lead to Waterford’s athletes having access to the best full-time sports medicine coverage offered. Physical therapists are able to work directly with the coaches and athletic trainers to develop personal sport specific rehab and exercise programs. This, in turn, promotes a quick return to sports participation.

Waterford Kettering has had Brian O’Donnell as its Athletic Trainer since 1998. Brian grew up in Waterford and returned after graduating with a degree in movement science from Grand Valley State University. A nationally Licensed Athletic Trainer, Brian is also certified in CPR, First Aid and body fat testing. He is a member of the National Athletic Trainers Association and the Michigan Athletic Trainers Society.

Rachel Tincknell received her BS degree in Athletic Training/Sports Medicine from Central Michigan University, and is now a Licensed Athletic Trainer. Rachel’s interest in Athletic Training began back in high school while working alongside her own athletic trainer, and from that, knew a career  in sports medicine was right for her. Rachel has experience at both the collegiate and hight school levels, but her true passion is working in high school athletics. Rachel is certified in first aide, AED/CPR, and is also a member of the National Athletic Training Association, Great Lakes Athletic Association, and the Michigan Athletic Trainer’s Society.

Rachel and Brian have the ability to provide comprehensive sports medicine services and will ensure a safe environment for sports participation. From accelerated physician referrals to physical therapy services, both Rachel and Brian can help ensure continuity of care.