TOLEDO, Ohio - Senior Associate Athletic Director for Health and Wellness at the University of Toledo Brian J. Jones was named the recipient of the 2024 CATS Quality of Life Award, the College Athletic Trainers' Society (CATS) announced on Tuesday. 

"Student-athlete success is a major pillar of our strategic plan," said Vice President and Director of Athletics Bryan B. Blair. "Brian Jones and his team play a critical role in the health, safety, well-being, and success of our student-athletes. We are excited for Brian to receive this recognition and proud of the bright light it shines on our extraordinary Sports Medicine team." 

The award is given to the college athletic trainer, or athletic training staff, who has risen to the occasion or continually acts to improve the quality of life of fellow collegiate athletic trainers and others. Only individuals who have been directly impacted by the recipient can nominate. 

"Brian Jones embodies the essence of true leadership — empowering others to excel while guiding them towards success," said Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine Brad Pierson, who was the principal nominator.   

Jones joined Toledo's athletic training staff in 1997 and has won several awards for his work through his career, including being named the National Athletic Trainers' Association Division I Head Athletic Trainer of the Year in 2022 and the 2011-12 Ohio Athletic Trainers' Association Athletic Trainer of the Year. 

Jones will be honored at the 2024 CATS Spring Symposium in Las Vegas, Nev. on Friday, May 17. 

For more information on Jones' recognition, please visit collegeathletictrainer.org.