March marks Athletic Trainer Appreciation Month, highlighting the impact of Gretna East’s athletic trainer, John Carda. With decades of experience, he plays a vital role in athlete healthcare, injury prevention and rehabilitation within the school and athletic community.

“The best part of my job is getting to know the athletes and coaches,” Carda said. “Seeing their progress from summer workouts to competition is incredible.”
Since Gretna East’s opening, he has witnessed the rapid development of its sports programs, which he finds very rewarding. From the first practices in 2023 to the competitive seasons of 2025, he has been there to support athletes in their growth and recovery.
“From day one of football practice, he was a big part of our team,” senior running back Mason Gunn said. “He was always willing to go the extra mile for whoever needed help.”
Early in his career, Carda was present at nearly every varsity game at home and away. However, as Gretna East’s sports program expanded, he began prioritizing high-risk sports like football, where injuries are more frequent and serious. He also makes it a priority to attend conference, district, and State competitions, where the stakes are higher and quick medical decisions are often required.
“Athletes and coaches need to feel comfortable with the person making medical decisions in critical moments,” Carda said. “That trust is built through experience and consistency.”
Carda’s journey began at Elkhorn High School, where he started one of Nebraska’s first sports medicine programs outside of the Class A schools. In addition to athletic training there, he also taught social studies. When Elkhorn South High School opened, he was asked to replicate his success there, building another strong program. After numerous years of service, he retired from teaching in 2017 but couldn’t stay away from the fields and courts for long.
That fall, Gretna High School needed a temporary athletic trainer, and he stepped in. A short-term position turned into a full school year, which deepened his connection with the Gretna community. Eventually, he returned full-time when Gretna East opened, which made him eager to help build its sports medicine program from the ground up.
“Having Carda at home games makes the away games worse,” junior soccer player Dylan Langfeldt said. “What he does for us is very kind.”
Beyond high school sports, Carda has spent 35 summers working with the International Gymnastics Camp, a program for young gymnasts from around the world. As the Director of Health Services, he hires and oversees medical staff while ensuring the health and safety of gymnasts ranging from beginners to Olympians.
“I love the diversity of the experiences,” Carda said. “One day, I am helping a young athlete just starting out, and the next, I am working with an Olympic gold medalist.”
Carda’s dedication to student athletes and commitment to sports medicine has left a positive mark on Gretna East and beyond. Whether supporting high school competitors or world-class gymnasts, his impact is undeniable.
“Seeing athletes succeed, recover and grow, not just in sports, but in life, is what makes this job worth it,” Carda said.