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Supervising Athletic Trainer, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System
“I love having an influence in someone’s life when this may be their lowest point.”
Growing up in the small town of McDonald, Ohio, where there were only two stoplights and one square mile of space, Alyss Hart’s dreams of the future seemed as straightforward as the streets she walked to school every day. With the town’s rich history rooted in the steel industry, it was a tight-knit community, where everyone knew each other. Alyss graduated with a class of just 60 students, a reflection of the close community ties that would later shape her career and personal life.
Initially, Alyss aspired to become an orthopedic surgeon. That dream, however, took an unexpected turn during her junior year of high school when she tore her ACL while playing basketball. At the time, her high school didn’t have an athletic trainer on staff, and it still doesn’t. But fate intervened when she was evaluated by an athletic trainer from the opposing team. That encounter became her first introduction to a profession she hadn’t previously considered. A few months later, on a recruiting trip to Wilmington College, Alyss learned more about athletic training. The moment they explained the profession, she knew she had found her calling—a way to stay connected to athletes and care for their injuries without the extensive schooling required to become a surgeon.
In 2007, Alyss graduated from Wilmington College with a bachelor’s degree in athletic training. She then pursued her master’s degree in Higher Education with a concentration in Sports Management at Auburn University, working as a graduate assistant with the Men’s and Women’s tennis teams. Her educational journey laid the foundation for a fulfilling career where no two days are the same. Whether it’s managing an unexpected injury or meeting a new athlete, Alyss thrives in the unpredictability of her profession.
One aspect that sets Alyss apart is her unique passion for running. She’s on a mission to run a half marathon in every state, having already completed races in 43 states. With a goal to finish by 2027, she tackles 3-4 states each year alongside her college basketball teammates. Her athletic achievements don’t stop there—Alyss was also a member of the 2004 National Championship DIII Women’s Basketball team at Wilmington College.
In her career, Alyss has faced numerous challenges, but she has always found inspiration in the people around her. Among them, Mary Rose Zink, a professor she met during her freshman year at Wilmington College, stands out as a significant influence. Mary Rose, who taught Intro to Psychology and was a staunch supporter of women’s basketball, became a mentor and dear friend. She embodies qualities that Alyss admires—selflessness, resilience, and a thirst for learning. Mary Rose’s ability to make each person feel valued and heard has left a lasting impact on Alyss both professionally and personally.
Alyss takes great pride in her ability to influence others, particularly during their most challenging times. As an athletic trainer, she plays a crucial role in helping athletes recover from injuries and return to the sports they love. The bonds she has built with athletes during their rehabilitation are some of the most rewarding aspects of her career. Seeing them back on the field or court brings a sense of fulfillment that words can hardly capture—knowing she played a part in their journey back to health is an indescribable joy.
Although the future holds some uncertainty for Alyss, she is enjoying her current role as the supervisor of secondary school athletic trainers while covering a high school after spending 12.5 years at Wofford College. Looking ahead, her immediate plans include running half marathons in Nebraska and Iowa this fall, with Hawaii on the horizon for next summer.
Her professional journey has also been enriched by technological advancements, such as the Kinematic SidelinER Flex, which she uses at the high school where she currently works. This tool has become an invaluable resource, allowing her to evaluate injuries privately without obstructing the view for fans during games.
Alyss Hart’s story is one of resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Whether she’s supervising athletic trainers, aiding an athlete in their recovery, or crossing the finish line in another state, Alyss continues to inspire those around her with her dedication and drive.
Written by Allison Ragland