BEHIND THE SCENES

Tuesday was Administrator/Support Staff Night at the dinner, with principals, trainers, managers and other administrators being recognized.

On hand was Lawrence Principal Dave Adam, president of the Colonial Valley Conference Principal’s Association. Adam noted the large role football plays in high school.

“It’s a big part of the culture,” he said. “In the fall your homecoming surrounds your football game. It’s the community coming together. Your king and queen are announced during the game. It all comes down to what goes on at that football game on Friday night. And it’s changed the culture in Mercer County the last 10 years, with how many schools have Friday night lights. It makes it special, it creates a great dynamic for football in Mercer County.”

Also in attendance was Jen Bauer, now in her 12th year as one of Hamilton’s trainers. Along with the countless duties trainers already have, a growing concern over head injuries has increased the responsibility.

“The biggest change is the concussion rules,” Bauer said. “We have a longer return to play. First they have to be asymptomatic and then we progress in a six-day step and each day is another step. You have to wait 24 hours between each step so it takes longer.”

Asked if the players drive her nuts to get back, Bauer chuckled.

“Coaches drive you nuts,” she said. couldn’t have done it without my teammates. My wide receivers made great catches, my line blocked really well, I didn’t get sacked once, so I couldn’t have done it without my guys.”