As the Christian County Colonels took the field for their latest football game, the students of the Gateway Academy Sports Medicine Pathway were on the sidelines, ready to assist and learn from real-life experiences. These students had the unique opportunity to work alongside Mike Long, the head athletic trainer for Christian County Public Schools, gaining invaluable hands-on knowledge in sports medicine.
Under Long’s guidance, the students took part in the fast-paced action, assisting with injury prevention, treatment, and emergency responses as they observed and supported the team. The game provided the perfect environment for these aspiring healthcare professionals to develop skills they will use in their future careers.
Kaidence Atwell, a junior in the program, aspires to work in sports medicine, and being on the sidelines allowed her to see firsthand what it takes to care for athletes. Senior DeAvery Ramey, who plans to become a traveling nurse, benefited from the fast-paced environment, gaining insights that will be crucial in his nursing career. Emma Webster, another senior, appreciates the experience of working in sports medicine but has her sights set on the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where she hopes to work as a nurse caring for newborns.
This real-world experience is part of Gateway Academy’s commitment to preparing students for careers beyond high school. The Sports Medicine Pathway provides a practical, career-focused education, and students like Atwell, Ramey, and Webster are benefiting from every moment spent in these high-stakes situations.
With each game, the students are learning how to apply classroom knowledge to real-life scenarios, building their confidence and gaining professional insights. Whether they ultimately choose a career in sports medicine, nursing, or other healthcare fields, the experience gained under the mentorship of Mike Long provides a strong foundation for their futures.
As the Colonels continue their season, the students in the Sports Medicine Pathway will remain on the sidelines, learning valuable lessons with every snap of the ball. They are proving that hands-on experience is essential for shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.
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