Scott Kratzer, Beloved Nebraska Athletic Trainer and Devoted Family Man, Leaves Lasting Legacy After Passing at 57

Scott Kratzer's legacy as a mentor, friend, and devoted family man will continue to inspire those who knew him.

October 12, 2026

This article was last updated by Reshma on October 12, 2026

The community of Amherst, Nebraska, mourns the loss of a cherished figure as Scott Alan Kratzer passed away at 57 at St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island on October 7, 2026.

Scott's passing has deeply affected his family, friends, colleagues, and the numerous student-athletes he supported throughout his extensive career.

As news spread, heartfelt tributes poured in from across the state, emphasizing his kindness, commitment, and the strong connections he fostered with everyone around him.

Scott Alan Kratzer (Source: Facebook)

Born on August 20, 1968, in Grand Island to Ron and Linda (Yantzie) Kratzer, Scott spent his early years in Broken Bow alongside his younger brother, Brett. From childhood, sports captured his passion.

He enjoyed watching and playing games with his brother and cousins, joining the Broken Bow Boxing Club as a young boy. Football was another favorite, especially supporting the Oakland Raiders and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. In high school, he discovered golf, a sport that would become a lifelong passion.

Scott consistently aimed for excellence in all endeavors. He excelled academically and graduated from Broken Bow High School in 1986.

He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training, Health, and Physical Education from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in May 1992.

While at UNL, Scott served as a student athletic trainer for the swimming and football teams.

He furthered his education, obtaining a Master of Science in Workforce Education and Development with an endorsement in Sports Management from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in 1996.

Scott became a certified Athletic Trainer through the National Athletic Trainers Association in 1993 and earned his certification as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist in 2000.

His Professional Career was Defined by Dedication and Expertise

Scott worked as a trainer at 21st Century Rehab in Nevada, Iowa, before moving to Kearney in 1997 to join Trails West Sports Medicine, which later became New West Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery.

For 28 years, he worked as a certified athletic trainer, making a positive impact on countless athletes and earning the respect of central Nebraska.

New West Sports Medicine shared a heartfelt message on their Facebook page, noting that Scott was among their first employees and describing his departure as a significant loss for the entire team.

During his graduate studies in Carbondale, Scott met Staci Robertson, who was pursuing her undergraduate degree in Athletic Training.

They connected over their mutual love for sports, intramural competitions, country music, and dancing.

Scott A. Kratzer (Source: )

The couple tied the knot on March 21, 1998, in Burlington, Iowa. They welcomed their daughter, Natalie, in 2000 and their son, Tyler, in 2003.

The family resided in Kearney until 2014, when they moved to a home they built together near Amherst. Tragically, Scott was preceded in death by an infant son.

Faith was integral to Scott's life. Each morning began with reading his favorite Bible passages, finding solace and direction through prayer.

Outside of work, Scott embraced various hobbies reflecting his vibrant spirit. He enjoyed golfing, deer hunting, fishing, working out at the gym, and grilling on his Traeger.

Naturally, he never missed an opportunity to cheer on his beloved Husker football team. Scott lived life to the fullest, always placing his family and friends first.

He held a deep passion for his work and derived immense joy from helping his student-athletes thrive both on and off the field.

Community Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Figure

Sargent Public School, where he served as athletic trainer, announced on their Facebook page that they would cancel classes for elementary students (PK-6) on Thursday, October 16, allowing staff to attend his funeral.

Colleagues and friends shared touching memories.

Aaron Klingehoefer wrote,