2025 3CATA Awards

Hall of Fame Inductees for 2025:

Mary Aja has served as the head athletic trainer at Long Beach City College (LBCC) since 1989, where she has been a pillar of support for student-athletes, ensuring their health and well-being throughout her distinguished career. With over 35 years of service at the community college level, Mary has been deeply involved with the 3CATA since its inception, shaping the organization’s foundational structure and contributing to its continued success.

From 1992 to 2001, Mary served as the South Vice President of 3CATA, where she played a critical role in developing the organization’s constitution and bylaws. Her leadership continued as a sport representative and South Coast Conference representative from 1990 to 1996. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mary was integral to the 3CATA’s working group, facilitating the safe return of sports at the community college level. Currently, she serves as the chair for the Professional Development Committee for 3CATA.

Mary’s commitment to education and training is equally exemplary. She began her academic journey at Modesto Junior College, later transferring to California State University, Long Beach, earning both her undergraduate and master’s degrees. As a preceptor and instructor at Long Beach State University’s athletic training program, Mary continues to mentor the next generation of athletic trainers.

Her unwavering dedication to the well-being of student-athletes and her constant pursuit of professional excellence make Mary Aja a deserving inductee into the Hall of Fame. This recognition is a testament to her lifelong commitment to the athletic training profession and to the countless lives she has positively impacted over her remarkable career.

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Lo began her role as the athletic trainer at Cerro Coso Community College in 2016, and from the moment she stepped onto campus, she became the heart and soul of Coyote Athletics. Known for her infectious charisma, unwavering positivity, and unmistakable smile, Lo was the light and energy that radiated through every corner of the athletic program. She touched the lives of countless athletes, coaches, staff, and members of the community, becoming a beloved figure in Ridgecrest.

Tragically, Lo passed away in an accident while engaging in her beloved canyoneering activity along the Kern River. Those who knew her understand that Lo was driven by adventure, always challenging herself physically. She thrived in activities like ultra-marathons, hiking, snowshoeing, rock climbing, dirt biking, and anything that allowed her to embrace the outdoors and push her physical limits.

Born and raised in Barstow, California.  She pursued her bachelor’s degree at San Jose State University, where she competed at the Division I level in cross-country. After earning her bachelor’s degree from SJSU, Lo pursued a master’s degree in Kinesiology in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Lo’s legacy is woven deeply into the fabric of Cerro Coso Community College and Coyote Athletics. She was a constant, dependable presence—always available to her athletes, day or night. Lo dedicated herself to providing top-tier care to her athletes, earning their trust and respect in the process. Whether running across a field to treat an injured player, driving team vans, hitting fungoes for the baseball team, or sharing laughs with fans and family, Lo’s energy was contagious. She went above and beyond in every role she played, always with a smile on her face.

Lo’s professionalism, kindness, flexibility, and dedication were exemplary. She became more than just an athletic trainer to her athletes—she was a mentor, a friend, and a constant source of support. Her work ethic and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone she worked with, and her presence continues to be felt throughout the Coyote Athletics program.

Above all, Lo’s commitment to Cerro Coso, her community, and her athletes was unparalleled. She was a positive force who inspired others to give their best, on and off the field. As we honor Lo’s memory with her posthumous induction into the Hall of Fame, we do so with deep gratitude for the legacy she left behind. Coyote Athletics will continue to uphold the values Lo instilled in us—dedication, compassion, and excellence—and strive to honor her memory in all that we do.

Lo will be profoundly missed, but her spirit and impact will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Appreciation Award:

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Special Service Award:

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2025 Scholarship Award Winners:

We are proud to award scholarships to three outstanding student sports medicine interns who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement in their studies and internships:

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