SLU AT Student Grows Professionally Alongside Preceptor at Parkway Central HS

SLU AT Clinical Site Spotlight - Parkway Central High School

By: Christopher Mecherle (SLU MAT Class of 2019)

During my second year in the professional phase of the SLU Athletic Training Program, I am honored to have a clinical experience with Parkway Central High School’s certified athletic trainer, Michael Aaron, MAT, ATC. While most of Michael and I’s time are spent at Parkway Central, Michael works for Mercy Sports Medicine. We utilize Mercy policies and protocols, and in turn, it has allowed us to provide the best possible healthcare to the student athletes. Organization has been key, and Michael is always accomplishing what needs to be done in the most efficient manner. I’m happy to be along for the ride.

This will be my second clinical experience in the high school setting, and I can safely say it has been good to be back. The plethora of student athletes that we see everyday has been great hands on experience. The time spent with them has sharpened my skills considerably since my first day this summer. In addition to the athletes, the faculty has also been a pleasure to work with. Each interaction is genuine, and coaches respect our healthcare team.

Overall, Parkway Central High School has been a fantastic place to grow as an AT student, and as a person. We are constantly busy, and being vigilant and calm can be a challenge occasionally. It has pushed my limits to a certain extent, and quite frankly I hope that is always the case.

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.