Maine High School Welcomes Its First In-House Athletic Trainer

For the first time, Medomak Valley High School and Medomak Middle School in Maine have a dedicated, in-house Athletic Trainer. And after years of relying on part-time coverage, the schools are already seeing the difference.

Christopher Wight joined the schools in August, bringing experience from Bates College and a passion for helping student-athletes stay healthy.

For several years, Medomak Valley relied on Athletic Trainers from neighboring schools and local emergency medical personnel to provide coverage at sporting events. But Athletic Director Matt Lash knew the schools needed more consistent care.

“We decided that our best option was to create our own athletic trainer position, and the school board supported it and put it in the budget,” Lash said.

“Having Chris on board has benefited the student athletes for sure.”

Wight's responsibilities extend far beyond game-day coverage. He develops injury prevention programs, creates rehabilitation plans, documents injuries, communicates with parents, and helps maintain emergency action plans.

He also wants people to understand that Athletic Trainers are healthcare professionals.

“Some see us as glorified water boys rather than the licensed, allied healthcare professionals that we are,” Wight said.

A graduate of Husson University and the University of Southern Maine, Wight credits his uncle, Athletic Trainer John Ryan, and his own high school Athletic Trainer, Chris Sementelli, with inspiring his career.

But what he enjoys most is building relationships with the athletes he serves.

“It is also pretty special to be with them from their lowest moments, such as a serious injury, through the rehabilitation process and then to see them step on that field or court again playing the sports they love,” Wight said.

With his first fall season complete, Wight is looking forward to continuing those relationships.

And perhaps the best feedback has come directly from the students.

“It is rewarding that some of the athletes have said that it is nice to have an athletic trainer,” he said.

For Medomak Valley, having an Athletic Trainer on staff means more than additional coverage. It means having a healthcare professional available to support student-athletes throughout their seasons.