Layla McCall, Head Athletic Trainer

Layla McCall is in her first year as the head athletic trainer in the Department of Athletics at Johnson C. Smith University.  She replaces former Head Athletic Trainer, Sean Thomas, who is currently the head athletic trainer at his alma mater, North Carolina Central University.

McCall came from Fort Valley State University, where she served as the head athletic trainer since fall 2004.  Prior to FVSU, McCall had the honor of working at HealthSouth Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Clinic in Birmingham, AL.  In Birmingham, AL. she served as the head athletic trainer for Minor High School and the Birmingham Power, a semi-professional women's basketball team, in addition to her clinical duties.

During her tenure at FVSU, McCall served as a member of the District IX Ethnic Diversity Committee for the National Athletic Trainers Association (2001-2006) and Vice-Chair of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Sports Medicine Committee (2004-2006).  She is an examiner for the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification Examination and an American Heart Association Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Instructor.

A native of Baxley, GA, she graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical therapy in 2000.  In 2003, her Master of Education in Exercise Science degree was conferred from The University of Georgia, where she was the first female to work exclusively for the football team as a graduate assistant athletic trainer.  Upon graduation from UGA, she completed a preseason internship with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Tim Botic, Asst. Athletic Trainer

Tim Botic begins his second season as the assistant athletic trainer. Botic was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wis. He attended the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee where he earned a bachelor's degree in kinesiology with a concentration in athletic training. He then attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where he received a master's degree in exercise and sport science. While at UNC-G, Botic worked as a graduate assistant at Greensboro College for two years. He enjoys exercising, hiking, backwoods camping, reading and riding his Harley. He is a certified and licensed athletic trainer (ATC-LAT) and is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS). He and his fiance', Katie, make their home in Charlotte.

Primary Team Orthopedic Physician

Dr. Michael Dockery begins his fifth season as the team orthopedic physician. He is responsible for all orthopedic injuries. After completing fellowship training in sports medicine at the University of Oklahoma in 1996, Dockery joined Miller Orthopedic Clinic to lead its University area office. A native of Florida, he completed his internship and residency at Shands Hospital at University of Florida, where he served as administrative chief resident from 1994 to 1995. An active member of the National Eagle Scout Association, he enjoys a variety of outdoor sports, including golf, tennis, sailing and backpacking. Dockery also serves on the Executive Committee for the Medical/Dental Staff, Medical Review Committee and the Operating Room Committee at Carolinas Medical Center - University.