The Triad High School athletic trainer, Jack Edgar, is no longer available during homerooms for students due to district financial issues.

When asked if Edgar was missed, senior Chad Hayden said, “Yes, because he is a good man.” Another senior, Caleb Ziegler, referred to Edgar as his “brother.”

The administration wanted to keep Edgar on the payroll, so he was moved to another school in the district in order to keep him.

Edgar said, “I miss being around the kids. Plus, when I am not here, it’s a big problem with rehab with injuries. Things can’t be done right when kids do it themselves.”

Students claim that not having Edgar during the day affects their athletics. They’re not able to complete their rehab nor do it properly with the little time they have after school.

When asked if friendships or personal life was affected by not being in school, Edgar said, “Yes, because I don’t see anyone anymore. I don’t have time to catch up with anyone because I am so busy with the kids.”

Hayden and Edgar were asked if they think high schools need trainers throughout the day and Hayden said, “Yes, because it helps our athletics.”

Edgar said, “It is important, but it depends on what your goals are as a school and athletics.”     

Even though Edgar and the students truly miss each other and Triad believes it is important to have a school trainer throughout the day, Edgar understands that schools do not have unlimited money to spend. “We need to set our priorities first,” Edgar said.

Triad is still deciding if his move will be permanent or temporary. Edgar is now a nursing support at Marine Elementary. “It’s different, but the kids are great,” said Edgar. He is available from around 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. every school day at the high school. He is also available during home athletic events during the whole week.

“Good thing I see Jack through football, otherwise I’d miss him,” said Hayden.