PHILADELPHIA, Pa. --- Moravian College Head Athletic Trainer and Assistant Athletic Director Bob Ward was inducted into the Eastern Athletic Trainers Association's '49 Club (Hall of Fame) Saturday evening at the EATA's annual convention in Philadelphia.

The Eastern Athletic Trainers Association '49 Club has been established to recognize illustrious members of our profession whose contributions to the Association have been significant, substantial and long-standing since our inception in 1949. Induction into the '49 Club honors athletic trainers who exemplify EATA's mission through exceptional, enduring contributions that enhance the quality of health care provided by athletic trainers and advance the profession. These men and women have shaped the profession through their accomplishments and dedication to service, leadership and professionalism.

"The Athletic Department is proud of all that Bob Ward has accomplished over the years while at Moravian College," stated Director of Athletics and Recreation and Head Women's Basketball Coach Mary Beth Spirk. "This honor is a huge recognition for Bob's hard work and dedication to his profession and especially to Moravian Athletics. We congratulate Bob on this prestigious award and are appreciative of all his time and energy here at Moravian."

Ward has been the Head Athletics Trainer at Moravian since 1986. In August 2011, he was named an Assistant Athletics Director. He is a 1980 graduate of East Stroudsburg University where he majored in athletic training, health, and physical education. In 2003, he obtained his Master's Degree in Sports Management from East Stroudsburg University. He holds current certifications from the National Athletic Trainers Association and is licensed to practice as an Athletic Trainer in the State of Pennsylvania.

"I am humbled to be included with the second class of inductees into the Eastern Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame," Ward commented. "It is an honor to be included with individuals who are pioneers of our profession and who have mentored me over the years."

Before coming to Moravian, he served as Assistant Athletics Trainer at Lehigh University, Head Athletics Trainer at Freedom High School, and Head Athletics Trainer for the American Soccer League Pennsylvania Stoners professional soccer team.

In 1998, Ward did an internship at the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY. Ward had the opportunity to work and travel with the USA Junior National Men's Volleyball team. With this team, he traveled to Canada (1999), Cuba (2000) and Brazil (2001).

Ward has served as the President Elect, President and Past President of the Eastern Athletic Trainers Association, 2006 through 2012.