July 20, 2021

SLU AT Student Connects with the Welcoming Learning Environment at UW-Milwaukee Athletics



SLU AT Clinical Site Spotlight - University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Athletics
By: Katie Wissing (MAT Class of 2022)

Returning home for the summer to work alongside Grant Rohrig, M.S. Ed, ATC, and the men’s basketball team at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) was an exciting prospect for a Milwaukee native, and I feel honored to have been so quickly welcomed into the panther family. The UWM athletic training staff immediately acknowledged my role on the healthcare team. With their open expression of trust in me, I was able to swiftly form relationships with each athlete, for I have been viewed as a part of their “family.” With their confidence in my care, I am able to treat and assist any player who may come in with an ailment. 

With any summer training and conditioning programs comes sore, tight muscles. So far this summer, I have been able to refine my skills in reducing this pain and tightness. I have always been interested in expanding my repertoire of manual therapies, and a new technique I now utilize every day is cupping therapy. An ancient technique, I have found cupping to be a great way to increase blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and aid in pain management for the student athletes.
 


Alongside minor, short term complaints, I have been able to observe the progress of individuals with more lasting conditions.  For example, I have been able to apply and observe a shoulder protocol with an individual who recently had a surgery to fix his torn labrum. Being able to view and apply a concept learned in class has been such a validating and worthwhile experience. 

Overall, I no longer have qualms when in the athletic training room and can approach each day head on, with confidence. Quite frankly, I dread the day I will have to leave my Panther family. I am grateful for Grant, the UWM staff, and all of the student athletes who are making my summer clinical experience great!

Students in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program have an immersive field experience in the summer between their two professional years in the program. This blog post details a student's reflection on their experience.