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As school sports wind down for the year, Clarkston High School (CHS) and TriState Health are proud to share the success of their new Athletic Trainer Program partnership. Launched at the start of the 2024–2025 school year, there has already been a significant impact on CHS student-athletes. With the hiring of Mika Rives, DAT, LAT, ATC, as the school’s full-time athletic trainer, CHS now benefits from consistent, high-quality care that supports both athletic performance and overall student well-being.

The presence of a dedicated athletic trainer has transformed the culture of safety in CHS sports. Student-athletes now have access to professional care right onsite, reducing the risk of serious injuries and ensuring proper treatment when injuries occur.
Athletic Director Shannon Wilson shared his thoughts: “Before Mika and this partnership with TriState, we struggled to find and keep an athletic trainer. We had a part-time EMT doing the training and coaches handling the rehab. This has taken a lot of pressure off my coaches, allowing them to focus on their roles and responsibilities. Without this support, we would be right back where we were before, with no athletic trainer. TriState’s commitment to the community is clear in how they stepped up when we were in need.”

CHS coaches agree. “Having an athletic trainer at our school has been very valuable to my program,” says Debbie Sobotta, CHS Girls Basketball Coach. “Knowing that I have an expert in injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation for my athletes has been a game changer. I can focus on coaching my players and not have to worry about being pulled out of that role to treat an injury. I know when my players need Mika’s attention that they will be taken care of professionally, thoroughly, and compassionately. We are very fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and dedicated athletic trainer at Clarkston High School.”

Athletes themselves are feeling the difference. “Having an athletic trainer has boosted my confidence and allowed me to feel safer knowing there is someone who can help if needed,” said Josephine Miller, a CHS athlete. “I can go 100%, not just in games, but also in practice because I know there’s someone there to take care of me.”

Josh Hoffman, another CHS athlete, echoed this sentiment: “If I get injured, I know Mika will do whatever it takes to get me performing better. He takes the time to connect with us, and that personal touch makes a huge difference.”

Over this past year, Mika has helped numerous athletes recover from injuries while also emphasizing injury prevention. Common injuries have included concussions (25 cases), knee injuries (45), shin splints (12), and ankle injuries (33). By providing treatment plans, rehabilitation exercises, and proper taping techniques, Mika ensures that CHS athletes can continue competing at their best while prioritizing their health.

“Every day, I get to help students get better and, more importantly, teach them positive habits to improve their quality of life,” Mika says. “I am privileged to support these athletes during such a pivotal time in their lives.” 

Mika’s impact extends beyond physical health. He has also provided guidance on stress management, time management, and developing healthy habits. Josephine credits him with helping her build confidence and teaching her breathing techniques to manage anxiety.

The relationship between TriState Health and Clarkston High School continues to shape a new standard for school-based athletic care. Thanks to Mika’s advanced training and his direct connection to TriState’s network of providers, CHS athletes receive a level of care far beyond what most high schools can offer. Through consultations, access to specialists, and integrated healthcare support, the program ensures that students have coordinated and comprehensive care available.

“That kind of support is something other schools without a partnership like this just don’t have,” Wilson further emphasizes. “This collaboration with TriState has elevated our athletic program and brought a new sense of confidence to our entire athletic community. We’re not just reacting to injuries, we’re building a proactive, sustainable model that puts our students’ well-being first. I’m excited to see how this partnership continues to evolve and benefit future generations of athletes.”

While the program has already seen great success, Mika envisions even more growth ahead. “Hopefully, we can expand the program and build a TriState community of athletic trainers to improve access to healthcare for other high schools and athletes in the area,” he said.

This partnership not only supports current athletes, but also creates a framework that can continue to grow for years to come. As CHS student-athletes continue to benefit from this invaluable program, the partnership between TriState Health and Clarkston High School exemplifies how dedicated healthcare support can positively impact young athletes’ safety, performance, and overall well-being.

Josh Hoffman sums it up best, “Mika is a great guy, and we are lucky to have him.”