It’s with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Richard “Dick” Malacrea. He was a pioneer and trailblazer in athletic training. He dedicated his life to advancing the profession in all that he did.

After graduating from West Chester State College (H&PE) Dick gained his physical therapy certificate from the University of Pennsylvania. He worked for 7 years as a PT in Philadelphia until he returned to his first love – sports and athletic training, as the Head Athletic Trainer at Swarthmore College (1965-68). In 1968 Dick started a long and illustrious career at Princeton University as Director of Athletic Training and Physical Therapy. He served as NATA District 2 Director and EATA President.

For five summers (1975-80) Dick traveled to Japan as the lead instructor for a series of workshops sponsored by Johnson & Johnson and SONY that introduced athletic training to Japan. In 1980 Dick was a member of the US Olympic Athletic Therapy staff.

Dick was a founding member of the Athletic Trainers’ Society of New Jersey. He was integral in establishing athletic training licensure in New Jersey and was appointed by the Governor to Chair the Athletic Training Advisors Committee to the Board of Medical Examiners. Dick was inducted into the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Hall of Fame and the Athletic Trainers Society of New Jersey (ATSNJ) Hall of Fame. Both the NATA and the ATSNJ created scholarships in his honor. The Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association awarded him with induction into the 49 Club, the Cramer Award, and as a Pinky Newall presenter.

Dick was a friend to many. He was a constant professional with a quick wit. He always had time to help others when needed.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends. Dick has left a lasting legacy in the athletic training profession and those that were lucky enough to know him. Below is a link for arrangements and an opportunity to leave a message on his legacy wall.