WEST CHESTER, PA — As a Certified Athletic Trainer for the past 40 years, Mark Grothmann has dedicated his impressive career to the diligent care and treatment of athletes while also mentoring students interested in pursuing careers in athletic training and sports medicine. This year at the 2022 Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society (PATS) Convention in Harrisburg, PA, Grothmann was recognized for his commitment to student learning and exceptional clinical preceptorship with the Outstanding Preceptor of the Year Award.
While Grothmann has held many different roles over 40 years from traveling with athletic teams to working with ESPN, he finds working with students, both on teams and as a professional mentor, to be the most fulfilling. “I have worked at West Chester East High School for 20 years, and, in that time, I’ve been able to help students prevent sports injuries, work on the successful rehabilitation of injuries, and be part of a dedicated team that continuously works to help students reach their potential on and off the field.”
Grothmann’s impact extends well beyond the students at WC East High School as he also dedicates his time to mentoring students from West Chester University who are interested in athletic training and sports medicine. He acts as a valuable resource for students looking to connect with current professionals in the field and provides individual attention, hands-on experiences, and feedback during each mentorship opportunity.
“I know how tough it can be when someone is just starting in their career or exploring whether or not this work might be for them, and as a mentor, I have the honor of helping them shape their future,” said Grothmann.
Neither the students he works with nor his colleagues will be surprised that Grothmann attributed his award to a team effort. “I am so humbled to have been named the Outstanding Preceptor of the Year, but it really isn’t just about me,” said Grothmann. “It takes many people, students, coaches, administrators, and more, all working together to help give future young professionals in this field the best learning experience possible – I’m happy to be one member of that team.”
“Mark’s commitment to the students currently under his care and the future of athletic training and sports medicine is truly inspiring,” said WC East High School’s Director of Athletics, Susan Cornelius. “We are thrilled to celebrate the very well-deserved recognition of his hard work through this award,” she added.
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