Podo Athletics

Chris Mathewson enters his 32nd season as the Head Athletic Trainer at Ponderosa High School. In addition to this role, he serves as the Director of Athletic Training for the Douglas County School District.

Chris also manages several key responsibilities at Ponderosa, including serving as the Athletic Archives Manager, Athletic Equipment Manager, and Indoor Athletic Concessions Manager.

In February 2015, Chris co-founded Athletic Safety Consultants, LLC, an organization focused on advancing safety in athletic environments. The company is currently developing a textbook and hosting educational seminars centered on athletic facility management, equipment safety, and operational protocols.

Chris earned his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Wyoming in 1994. He later received his Master’s in Sports Medicine from the United States Sports Academy in 2001. He holds certifications as both an Athletic Trainer and a Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

Beyond his professional duties, Chris is deeply involved in volunteer work. He currently serves on the Historical Commission of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) and recently completed a term on NATA’s Board of Directors. He has also served as Secretary of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Trainers’ Association and spent six years as President of the Colorado Athletic Trainers’ Association.

Chris has received several awards for his efforts:

• National Athletic Trainers Association Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer June 2024
• National Athletic Trainers Association Dedicated Service Award June 2018
• Colorado Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame May 2018
• Rocky Mountain Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame March 2017
• Colorado Athletic Trainers Association Robert Ryan Service Award May 2015
• Ponderosa High School Hall of Fame, September 2014
• Rocky Mountain Athletic Trainers Association Distinguished Service Award, April 2014
• “Excellence In Colorado High School Athletic Training Award” presented by the Denver Nuggets, March 2005
• April 2004 “Above the Call Award” from Training and Conditioning magazine, April 2004

Chris is married and lives in Parker with his wife Wendy and daughters Taylor and Bailey, and dogs Ziggy and Bentley.