Chelsea Dropps
Chelsea Dropps is a licensed and certified athletic trainer with nearly a decade of experience in both high school and collegiate athletic settings. She currently serves as the Athletic Trainer for Shakopee High School through St. Francis Regional Medical Center, where she provides injury prevention, evaluation, and rehabilitation services to student-athletes. Chelsea is also certified in Functional Movement Screening (Level 1) and ImPACT concussion management (ITAT), further enhancing her ability to support athletes’ health and long-term performance.
Prior to her current role, Chelsea served as an Assistant Athletic Trainer at Hamline University, where she worked with a variety of sports teams, including cross country, volleyball, basketball, track and field, and tennis. She also spent over four years as the Athletic Trainer at Johnson High School in St. Paul, providing care to a diverse student population. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, graduating Cum Laude from Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a minor in Corporate and Community Health.
Passionate about serving her community, Chelsea has been involved in volunteer efforts like Smiles for Christmas and the American Red Cross, where she’s contributed to disaster relief and community outreach for over a decade. Whether on the field or off, Chelsea is known for her dedication, clinical knowledge, and compassionate approach to athlete care.
• IMPACT Trainer Certification
• CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers
• Minnesota State University, Mankato
• Normandale Community College
• Great Lakes Athletic Trainers' Association
• Minnesota Athletic Trainer's Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the sense of fulfillment I get from giving back to my community. Knowing that my work makes a difference in the lives of others keeps me motivated and driven to grow both personally and professionally.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to pursue this field, even with its challenges, because the impact you can have—especially on young athletes—is incredibly rewarding. Helping them recover, grow, and return to what they love is a powerful experience. Your presence, perspective, and passion are needed in this profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Spending time outdoors with my two young sons—whether it's camping or cheering them on at their sports games—is a huge part of my life and reflects the values I carry into my work. I believe in balance, connection, and the importance of being present. Reconnecting with nature and family grounds me, and that sense of purpose and perspective carries over into everything I do professionally.