TAMPA, Fla. — St. Thomas University's Nicole Giha has been named the 2024-25 Sun Conference Athletic Trainer of the Year, as voted on by her peers across the league. 

Giha was nominated by STU's Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, Jim Tuffy, who described her as a professional who blends clinical expertise, leadership, innovation, and genuine compassion. According to her department, Giha not only fulfills the technical responsibilities of athletic training but transforms her role into a platform for advocacy and systemic improvement. She takes a proactive approach to injury prevention and plays a key role in mentoring future athletic trainers as a clinical preceptor. 

"Nicole is a key member of our department and athletic training program," said St. Thomas Vice President of Athletics Bill Rychel. "I am excited that her work ethic, compassion, and expertise were recognized by her peers. Nicole goes above and beyond to not only serve our student-athletes but support our entire department. She is a true star at St. Thomas and within the Sun Conference." 

Her department also shared that Giha's contributions go beyond her core responsibilities. When the tennis program was left without a head coach mid-season, Giha volunteered to lead the team—handling all travel logistics, organizing practices, and managing competitions. Under her leadership, the team completed the most successful season in program history. 

Colleagues within the athletic department describe her as a dedicated and caring professional who not only serves student-athletes with excellence but also motivates those around her to strive for higher standards and deeper care. 

Giha will now advance to the national ballot for the NAIA Athletic Trainer of the Year Award, which will be announced on September 15th.