David Cookson, an athletic trainer, took the mound at Day Air Ballpark on June 28 to throw the first pitch for the Sports Med Day game with the Dayton Dragons.

Known to many colleagues as “Cookie,” David was unanimously selected by his peers to throw the ceremonial first pitch. This recognition comes after over 40 years of service in athletic training and sports medicine in the community.

For David, this opportunity represents a life spent around the game he loves and a career dedicated to helping athletes stay healthy.

“It means a lot to me,” says David. “I love baseball, and it’s something I have always wanted to do.”

A life shaped by sports

Baseball has always been a constant in David’s life. Originally from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, he grew up an avid Red Sox fan and high school pitcher. While attending the University of Rhode Island, a friend introduced him to a baseball trainer, opening the door to becoming a student trainer, majoring in athletic training, and later getting a graduate assistantship at Ohio University.

“I wanted to do something that kept me around sports,” says David.

After moving to Ohio in 1982, he built a career caring for athletes. David joined Kettering Health in August 2000, working in Sports Medicine and supporting Dayton Public Schools. He has also served as an athletic trainer and liaison at Miamisburg High School, with his impact being recognized with induction into the Miamisburg High School Athletic Hall of Fame. David describes this induction as the most rewarding achievement in his career.

Though he is mostly retired now, David continues to serve as a resource for Miamisburg High School through Kettering Health when he is needed, while remaining connected to athletes and colleagues who have helped shape his career.

“I’ve enjoyed my experience at Sports Medicine,” he says. “The doctors and therapists are all very supportive of each other.”

His close connection to athletes remains one of the things he values most in his career.

“Being around athletes helps keep you younger,” David says.

In his retirement, David looks forward to traveling more to see his four daughters and nine grandchildren.

Game day

After weeks of anticipation and preparation, David took to the mound Sunday afternoon to deliver the first pitch.

“I was a bit nervous, but was able to complete the throw without bouncing it.”

Despite his nerves, David expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the support from his loved ones.

“It was a fun experience,” he said. “I was happy to see my wife, friends, and coworkers from Kettering Health Sports Medicine in the stands rooting for me.”