Throughout the day, he treated leg cramps, evaluated minor injuries on both sidelines, and even assisted a fan who collapsed from heat exhaustion. It’s a reminder that his role reaches far beyond the field.

Nate is a familiar face long before kickoff. “During the school day, I arrive around 12:00 p.m. and start helping student-athletes who can see me in the office,” he said. “Injury evaluations, exercises, taping—things like that.”

His support continues into the evening. He covers every home game and travels with the football team for away and sectional matchups. His work touches multiple sports and age levels.

Saugerties football player Griffin DeCicco says Nate helped him get back into the Mum Bowl quickly. “I had a previous finger injury and asked him to re-tape it. Once he wrapped it, he said I was good to go.”

Director of Athletics Mike Pugliese says Nate’s presence is essential. “Nate is the bloodline of Saugerties athletics. He is the first to respond to an injury during a game.”

Coaches rely on his judgment, Pugliese explained. Having a trained professional on-site lets them stay focused on coaching while knowing their athletes are in good hands.

Nate knows that injuries can be emotional moments. “Sometimes an injury can be stressful, but I always try to stay super calm because an injured kid is usually pretty worried. I want to be that calming presence,” he said.

DeCicco agrees. “A lot can happen on the field. Knowing there’s someone there to check on you so you don’t make it worse—that’s important.”

While the state does not require an athletic trainer on the sideline, Saugerties chooses to make it a priority. Pugliese also pointed out something many people don’t realize: Nate trains all the coaches in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). “Other districts have to hire someone to do that. Having him here to train everyone is a huge benefit.”

When he was younger, Nate played baseball, soccer, football, and track. Now, he enjoys watching student-athletes grow in the sports they love. “I really like what I do and the connections I make with students,” he said.

Whether it’s preventing injuries, responding to an emergency, or giving reassurance, Nate Reynaud is always there—making sure athletes can stay focused and play safely and confidently.