Meet the Athletic Trainer: Aaron Schumacher, MS, ATC

We're kicking off our new Meet the Athletic Trainer series by introducing Aaron Schumacher, MS, ATC, Starr Regional Medical Center's athletic trainer serving Meigs County High School.

Through our partnership with local high schools, Starr Regional Medical Center provides athletic training services that help keep student-athletes healthy, safe and ready to perform at their best. These partnerships give athletes, parents and coaches direct access to sports medicine expertise while strengthening the health and well-being of our communities.

Aaron has been an athletic trainer for nearly 15 years, including time with the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants, but his passion for the profession started because he wanted to make a difference in the lives of young athletes.

"I had quite a few injuries during my high school athletic career. Those experiences showed me how important it is for student-athletes to have someone in their corner. They inspired me to become the kind of athletic trainer who genuinely cares about and supports every athlete.”

Today, Aaron covers football, volleyball, cheer, basketball, tennis, golf, baseball and softball, but says the relationships he builds are what matter most.

"I enjoy every aspect of working with student-athletes. Being able to affect their athletic performance is minimal compared to the impact I strive to have on their lives. Those kids mean a lot to me."

As the first full-time athletic trainer at Meigs County High School, Aaron provides injury prevention, evaluation, treatment and guidance through the recovery process, giving athletes, parents and coaches peace of mind knowing they have someone there to help.

His top injury-prevention tip:

HYDRATE! "Water is key not only to combat dehydration but to optimize muscle function."

Aaron is also proud to represent Starr Regional Medical Center in the schools.

"Starr has been the BEST employer I've ever had and has shown that they care tremendously about their employees. My job is to carry that same sentiment at the school."

When he's not on the sidelines, you'll find this self-proclaimed night owl cheering for the Meigs County Tigers, listening to Rihanna on game day, and spending time with his amazing daughter.

Aaron's athletes describe him as positive, funny and caring, and that's exactly the impact he hopes to leave behind.

"Life is what you make of it. No matter what adversity occurs, it's up to YOU to control your narrative and see the positives in all circumstances."

And his message to the athletes, parents and coaches he serves:

"I am truly grateful to be at Meigs. Even though I strive to be a positive impact on them, I hope they know how much they mean to me."

Stay tuned as we continue our Meet the Athletic Trainer series and introduce the dedicated athletic trainers who help keep local student-athletes healthy, safe and in the game.

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