Jeff Wood, a veteran athletic trainer who has become known as Woody throughout the University of Tennessee athletics department, was recently named the 2026 Tennessee Athletic Trainer Society’s College Athletic Trainer of the Year.
His 24‑year tenure as the head trainer for the UT baseball program has made him a cornerstone of player development, overseeing injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance strategies for generations of student‑athletes.
A career defined by longevity and trust
The award, named after former head trainers Eugene Smith and Mickey O’Brien, joins a roster of past recipients that includes Tim Kerin, Mike Rollo, Chad Newman and Robb Duncanson, all of whom earned the same honor while at Tennessee.
Head coach Josh Elander emphasized Wood’s indispensable role in maintaining player health, while Dr. Chris Klenck noted how Wood enriches the lives of student‑athletes both on and off the field.
Impact that reaches beyond the diamond
Wood’s contributions have been part of five Men’s College World Series appearances, underscoring his influence on the program’s national standing.
Colleagues and athletes alike describe him as one of the best trainers at any level of baseball, citing his positive impact on careers and personal development.