J. Michael Lalley

Abstract

Athletic Trainer Devoted Decades to Caring for Students.

For 33 years, beginning in 1973, Pingry students benefited from John Michael Lalley’s knowledge in the training room, on the athletic fields, and in the classroom. Students and faculty praised his team spirit, involvement in team activities, and calming demeanor in times of stress. He joined Pingry after earning his Bachelor of Science degree at Springfield College and Athletic Training degree at Westchester State College. His responsibilities at the outset of his Pingry career included physical training, teaching physical education, and coaching football, tennis, swimming, and baseball. In 1976, he focused his time and skills on full-time athletic training to ensure his availability for those who needed his care. His expertise was enhanced by memberships in both the Easter Athletic Trainers’ Association and National Athletic Trainers’ Association---professional membership associations for certified athletic trainers. Michael taught anatomy, physiology, and health, and in 1999, received the Woodruff J. English Faculty Award, which recognizes teachers who instill in their students the love of learning and commitment to living the ideals of the Honor Code. To acknowledge his value to the community, the Classes of 1983 and 1995 chose him as the dedicatee for the Blue Book, Pingry’s yearbook. His community involvement continues in his new home state of North Carolina, where he volunteers for Habitat for Humanity.