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2. CU-Lock Haven student completes athletic training immersion at Skidmore College

Prior to graduation last spring, Zachary Malek, a Commonwealth University-Lock Haven athletic training master's student, completed a semester-long immersive athletic training rotation at Skidmore College under the supervision of the Skidmore Sports Medicine staff.

Malek, of Schenectady, New York, served primarily with the Skidmore men's lacrosse program, which competes in the Liberty League at the NCAA Division III level.

During his full-time externship, Malek spent the majority of his time in the athletic training room developing individualized rehabilitation and daily treatment plans for student-athletes, while also providing on-field coverage for practices and games. He was responsible for evaluating and assisting in the diagnosis of acute and overuse orthopedic injuries, implementing return-to-play protocols and coordinating care with the broader sports medicine and coaching staff.

Malek became an integral member of the sports medicine team, working alongside
certified athletic trainers Meghan Nicchi, Nate Ayotte and John Mosier. His duties included pre- and post-practice treatments, sideline assessments during competition, emergency care readiness and travel coverage for away contests, all of which enhanced his practical skills and clinical judgment.

Previous hands-on experience with Lock Haven athletics and regional sports programs helped prepare Malek for the fast-paced environment at Skidmore.

Throughout the rotation, he gained new assessment and rehabilitation techniques, expanded his knowledge of sport-specific care for lacrosse athletes, and refined his patient communication and documentation practices.

"I can't thank my preceptors enough," Malek said. "They have shaped me both as a clinician and as a person."

Categories:

• Athletic Training

Tags:

• Externship