Pirog, McCarthy Announce Transition To Full-Time Academic Roles
Duo has led the athletic training program for nearly three decades.
Long-time Central Connecticut State athletic trainers Dr. Kathy Pirog and Tom McCarthy announced today that they will be transitioning to full-time teaching positions within the University. The duo has served in dual roles within Athletics and in the Physical Education department throughout their tenure and have served both departments' exceptionally.
"It's hard to put into words just how much both Kathy and Tom have done for CCSU, our department, and our student-athletes," said Director of Athletics Tom Pincince. "Each has dedicated themselves to the betterment of all of us and treated thousands of CCSU student-athletes. Their tireless work ethic, years of expertise and unwavering support have always put our student-athletes in the best position to compete and do so in a healthy and productive manner. We thank them for their decades of service and know that the knowledge they will continue to offer the next generation of Athletic Trainers will benefit us all."
Pirog, a 1981 CCSU graduate, has served as the head athletic trainer for the Blue Devils since 1996. The 2023-24 academic year marked her 39th year overall at the University, serving her first 11 years as a full-time assistant under Carl Krein, ATC, PT. She earned her Doctorate in Education Leadership from CCSU in 2021.
"It has been an absolute pleasure," said Pirog. "I am so grateful for the student-athletes who I have had the pleasure to work with over the years. I extend a special thank you to CCSU and NATA Hall of Famer Carl Krein for his mentorship, and to Charles 'CJ' Jones for entrusting the Athletic Training program to my leadership when Carl retired. It has been an honor to work with not one, but two Dr. Waskowitz, Paul Manwaring, our athletic training students, and the medical staffs on our campus."
McCarthy earned his bachelor's from CCSU in 1989 and his graduate degree in 1992. He has been in his role as assistant athletic trainer since 1996.
"It has been a thrill of a lifetime to work with so many student-athletic trainers, athletes and staffs over the past 30 years," said McCarthy. "Relationships are very special. Coach Krein and Kathy were my mentors and I owe them everything. Kathy's leadership and camaraderie have been instrumental in our success, and I am profoundly thankful for our partnership and friendship. I would be remiss if I did not also thank CJ Jones for hiring me.
"I have also appreciated working side-by-side with Paul Manwaring daily. Team physicians, the late Dr. William Waskowitz, Dr. Robert Waskowitz and Dr. Jeffrey Brown have personally had such a positive impact on me and have enhanced the well-being of the student-athletes and have elevated the success of the athletic training room. Countless individuals have contributed to the success of the program, and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished over the past 30 years."