Neffendorf Named NAIA Athletic Trainer of the Year

SHREVEPORT, La. – LSU Shreveport Director of Sports Medicine Meghan Neffendorf has been named the 2026 NAIA Athletic Trainer of the Year, a prestigious honor recognizing her exceptional leadership, dedication to student-athlete wellness, and significant contributions to the profession.

Selected from a pool of nominees representing all 20 NAIA conferences, Neffendorf oversees comprehensive sports medicine operations for the Pilots, leading efforts in injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Her influence extends well beyond the LSUS campus; as a member of the executive board for the NAIA Athletic Trainers Association (ATA), she plays a key role in advancing the field and supporting athletic trainers across the entire association.

Since joining the staff in 2020, Neffendorf has been instrumental in the success of the Pilots' athletic programs by fostering a culture centered on health, education, and performance. Her commitment to excellence has earned her the deep respect of coaches, colleagues, and the student-athletes she serves.

"I am truly honored and humbled by this recognition," said Neffendorf. "I am incredibly grateful to my teachers and mentors for everything they have taught me, and to my coaches and administrators for working alongside me and giving me the opportunity to do what I love every day. To my student-athletes, thank you for trusting me with your care. I also want to thank my husband for his unwavering support throughout my career, and our kids, who have been our biggest cheerleaders. To my family and friends, thank you for believing in me from day one, and to the committee, thank you for this honor."

As one of the few athletic trainers across the NAIA to receive this distinction, Neffendorf's achievement highlights both her personal excellence and LSU Shreveport's ongoing commitment to providing elite support for its student-athletes.

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