Athletic Trainer McGovern is the Calm During a Storm at Destrehan

Since joining Destrehan High School in Louisiana in 2008, George McGovern has become a cornerstone of their sports medicine program, leveraging his extensive experience to manage both the physical and emotional upheavals of sports injuries.

Athletic Trainer McGovern, who also serves as an athletic director and teacher, maintains a calm demeanor during crises, understanding his emotional state significantly affects the athletes and their families.

"It's almost to the point where it comes across like I don't care. But I was taught very early that my emotional state is going to drive how that athlete, how those parents watching this transpire are going to handle this."

McGovern's own sports career was derailed by an injury during high school, which led him to a profound appreciation for the role in sports medicine.

"Remembering getting brought back as fast as I was after injury, it gives me a lot of joy now to be able to help kids get over that hump and back on the field."

This personal experience sparked his interest in the field, further fueled by a family friend who owned a physical therapy clinic. It was here that McGovern saw the intersection of his passions for sports and medical science.

His journey took a significant turn following Hurricane Katrina, which damaged his alma mater, leading him to roles at St. Charles Catholic before arriving at Destrehan.

He emphasizes the importance of a supportive team, from medical colleagues to family, in sustaining the high standards of the athletic program. He highlighted the collective effort that underpins their success:

"What we do at Destrehan isn't possible without all of them."

McGovern's commitment extends beyond immediate care; he is deeply invested in the overall development of his athletes, relishing in their growth and successes beyond high school.

For those interested in more on the profound impact of dedicated Athletic Trainers and the broader scope of sports medicine, McGovern’s story at Destrehan High School offers inspiring insights into the professional and personal commitments shaping young athletes’ lives.