SLU AT Student Learns Through the Support of Preceptor/Alum at Rockwood Summit HS

SLU AT Clinical Site Spotlight - Rockwood Summit High School
By: Maggie Rowell (SLU MAT Class of 2019)

I began my first clinical rotation at Rockwood Summit High School. It has approximately 1,200 students and has had great success in their athletics, including 3 state championships in the past year. I was very excited to start working with the athletes and learn more about the profession outside of the classroom.

 I was fortunate enough to be placed with a Saint Louis University Athletic Training Alumnus, Tony Mosello, MAT, ATC, LAT. It is nice to work with an alum because he understands exactly what I am learning, the different tests and techniques we are taught, and adjusts our learning styles in reference to my knowledge set. It has also been nice getting to know the different coaches, athletes, parents, athletic directors, and physicians that we encounter in our day-to-day events.

Rockwood Summit has a wide variety of fall sports such as field hockey, soccer, volleyball, football, and many more. Since there are so many fall sports, there is always someone coming into the Athletic Training room looking for tape, rehab work, injury diagnosis, or help with a therapeutic modality. I have also been exposed to many triage situations. We have dealt with fractures, knee injuries, heart conditions, heat stress, and even a cervical spine injury. At first, it was intimidating to be engulfed in an environment where I may not have the proper skills to confidently have an action plan ready. However, by working with Tony, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and continuously learn through action. It is allowing me to take on new challenges that I would not have learned in the classroom.

Outside of being exposed to new injuries, I have also been exposed to the different, more subtle, responsibilities of an Athletic Trainer. I have learned how to properly keep in close communication with the athletes, parents, and physicians throughout the plan of care. I have learned the importance of developing trust with the athletes by being approachable and relaxed. Lastly, I have learned it is very important to document all aspects of an athlete’s care.

I am excited to continue learning new things as I continue being exposed to the athletic training profession at Rockwood Summit High School.

This is one of a series of posts by the Saint Louis University Athletic Training students featuring their clinical site and their preceptors. The number, quality and diversity of clinical instruction are major assets for the SLU AT Program.