UPDATE: The Chicago Sky have just announced the hiring of Jess Cohen as their new head athletic trainer, a pivotal move as the WNBA experiences an unprecedented surge in investment and popularity. With the league setting new standards for player resources, the Sky are determined to elevate their performance operations, signaling a critical shift in their approach to player health and training.
Cohen, who previously developed her skills with the Sky’s training staff while earning her doctorate at Northwestern University, returns with a mission to transform the team’s sports performance department. “We’ve come a long way, and across the league as a whole, everything is elevating,” Cohen stated. Her goal is clear: to ensure the Sky are not left behind in the rapidly evolving landscape of the WNBA.
This hiring comes at a time when the Sky’s operations are under intense scrutiny. The team is racing to catch up with the league’s spending frenzy, having struggled with limited resources in the past. Cohen’s return is seen as a crucial step in providing players with the necessary support for growth both on and off the court. “You can’t compete without the ability to provide a safe environment where athletes can continue to grow,” she emphasized.
The Sky’s investment in their facilities is also noteworthy. A new training center in Bedford Park is set to open on October 9, 2024, representing a significant commitment to improving player care. The facility, costing roughly $38 million, aims to enhance training and rehabilitation resources, allowing for year-round evaluations and support for injured players.
General Manager Jeff Pagliocca highlighted the importance of building a solid medical department, stating, “It was really important to us to rebuild our whole medical department.” Historically, the Sky have faced challenges in maintaining a stable training staff, with players like Courtney Vandersloot recalling a “revolving door” of athletic trainers during her early years with the team.
Cohen’s appointment marks the first time the Sky’s sports performance staff has expanded to three full-time athletic trainers, all of whom bring NBA or USA Basketball experience. This growth is essential for establishing a more robust support system for athletes, particularly as the team aims to match the level of care seen in franchises like the New York Liberty, which boasts a league-high six full-time performance staff members.
Cohen’s immediate impact is already being felt. Players like Ariel Atkins have noted her commitment to communication and personalized training plans. In her first weeks, Cohen faced the challenge of managing injuries to key players, including Vandersloot, who suffered a torn ACL. Cohen swiftly developed a comprehensive recovery plan, showcasing her expertise and dedication.
“Having years of experience in the NBA and WNBA has prepared me to look at the athlete as a whole,” Cohen said, underscoring her holistic approach to player rehabilitation. Despite the challenges, the Sky’s organizational shift aims to foster a healthier environment for athletes, addressing the disparities in care that have existed in the past.
As the new season approaches, players are optimistic about the changes underway. However, the Sky’s ability to sustain these improvements hinges on ongoing support from ownership. Principal owner Michael Alter has been under pressure to enhance the team’s spending capabilities to compete effectively, especially against franchises with billionaire owners.
Vandersloot has expressed hope for further investments, including hiring a full-time dietitian and expanding the sports performance team. “We just need more good people,” she stated, emphasizing the need for continued growth in staffing and resources.
The Chicago Sky are at a crucial juncture, with Cohen’s hiring symbolizing a new era of investment and commitment to player health. As the WNBA landscape continues to evolve, the Sky must align their operations with the league’s heightened standards to achieve long-term success. Fans are eager to see how these developments will shape the upcoming season and the team’s future.
