Jack Rea's Legacy
Known as an innovator in conditioning and rehabilitation, Jack Rea was widely known as one of the leading athletic trainers in the eastern United States during his 35-year tenure at Washington & Jefferson College.
"Mr. Rea was a pioneer in our profession, way ahead of his time. He was a great person and mentor for us all to learn from," W&J Athletic Trainer Mark Lesako said. "He treated us and everyone he met like we were his own kids. He was always there for us to lean on for advice and support. You can't measure the value in what he said. There are no words that can describe what he meant to us, to the College, to the community, and to the positive impact he had on so many lives. I've never seen a person that was loved by so many people"
In 1972, Rea initiated a swimming and rehabilitation program at W&J, which was one of the first in the nation. Jack Rea was a true W&J President.
"Mr. Rea was an outstanding athletic trainer, but more importantly, he was an amazing person that was loved and admired by so many people. He was one of the hardest workers we have ever seen, and he was dedicated to our profession and to the College," W&J Athletic Trainer Mike Lesako said. "He is a legend at W&J and we hope that his family is proud of the way we are continuing his tradition of caring for our student-athletes like they are our own kids, just like Jack did."
Rea's Awards
Your Impact
In honor of Jack Rea's commitment to W&J, please consider making a gift in his honor to the Jack Rea Memorial Endowed Fund. This Fund has been put in place to offset costs incurred by general use in the Athletic Training and Sports Medicine Department.
Between now and W&J Day of Giving, Feb. 20, 2023, all gifts made to the Jack Rea Memorial Endowed Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $7,500 thanks to the generosity of a loyal alumnus. Make your gift before Feb. 20 to make an even greater impact!