Desiree Koggel has been named as head athletic therapist for the Drayton Valley Thunder.
She officially stepped into the role on Aug. 1 and brings a comprehensive background in elite athlete care, the organization says.
With dual certifications as a Certified Athletic Therapist and a Certified Athletic Trainer, Koggel’s expertise covers acute injury management, hockey-specific injury prevention, and advanced rehabilitation, including concussion and spinal management.
Thunder General Manager and Head Coach Jeff Truit commented, “It was crucial to bring in an athletic therapist with AJHL experience, and Desiree’s proven ability and proactive approach to player wellness and fitness are exactly what we need. Improving player fitness is a core area of improvement we have identified for 2025, and she’ll be instrumental in keeping our players at their best as we build a strong foundation for the coming years.”
Koggel said she’s excited to begin her journey with the Thunder, and added, “I’m passionate about ensuring the well-being and peak performance of these talented players. The Thunder position was particularly attractive as it allows me to solely focus on player wellness. I’m committed to providing top-tier care, and I cannot be more excited to work with Jeff, Josh, and the rest of the group under an aligned vision of accountability and showing up to the rink with intention.”
She previously served as head athletic therapist for the Olds Grizzlys Junior A hockey club, as assistant athletic therapist for the Okanagan Hockey Group, and as a contract athletic therapist for Olds College Athletics (women’s hockey).
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