Meet Your Athletic Trainer

Elise Bancroft, AT, is currently seeing athletes within various school systems. Elise earned a Master’s Degree in athletic training from Grand Valley State University. She is certified and licensed in the state of Michigan.

“As a kid that grew up always involved in athletics, I knew I wanted to choose a career path that allowed me to stay immersed in sports while also providing care and support for those who needed it. Athletic training was the perfect combination of the two and I am thankful to be able to do what I love.”

Emily Fix, AT, earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Hope College and a master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa. She has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association since 2005 and is licensed in the state of Michigan. Emily is also is board certified in functional movement screen, a clinical exercise physiologist (CEP), and a Cancer Exercise Trainer (CET).

“I’ve always had a strong desire to help others and an interest in human anatomy and exercise physiology so a career as an athletic trainer seemed like a great fit for me.” 

Jaime Hall, AT, is currently seeing athletes within various school systems. Jaime earned a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Spring Arbor University, earned a Master’s Degree in Athletic Training from the University of Arkansas, and also earned a Master's in Education in Applied Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. She has been certified by the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers since 2010 and is licensed in the state of Michigan.

“Growing up as an athlete and experiencing my own injuries led me to the profession of athletic training. I have enjoyed working in various populations from high school, collegiate, orthopedic physical therapy and currently growing the profession to young minds within our local high schools through the Career & Technical Education program. Athletic Training brings me joy by helping athletes of all ages find comfort, respect, and eventually return to their sport that brings them joy!”

Andre Hitt, AT, is currently seeing athletes within the Berrien Springs Public School systems. Andre earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Central Michigan University. He has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association since 2015 and is licensed in the state of Michigan.

“As an athletic trainer, I love being immersed on the sidelines in the competitive athletic atmosphere. I look forward to helping athletes be the safest, most educated, and healthiest version of themselves. Athletic Training is truly a profession it its own league, and something that I wake up passionate about each day.”

Caroline Jarvis, AT is currently seeing athletes at Lake Michigan College. Caroline earned a bachelor’s of science degree in athletic training from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is certified and licensed in the state of Michigan.

“I’m here to help athletes play at their highest and safest level. Helping people is my lifelong passion and I hope to do this for years to come!”

Katie Knisely AT, is currently seeing athletes within the Niles Community Schools system. Katie earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Alma College and went on to earn her masters of athletic training from Western Michigan University.  She has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association since 2013 and is licensed in the state of Michigan and Indiana. She is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS).

“I have always been involved in athletics growing up and enjoy being around athletes. After watching many family members and friends getting injured and wanting to help in the recovery process, going into athletic training seemed like a good fit and has been ever since. I enjoy seeing my athletes get back to the sports they love and I find joy in the small but mighty victories that accompany a career in sports medicine and rehabilitation."

Taylor Krugh, AT is currently serving both Coloma Public Schools and Watervliet Public Schools. Taylor graduated from Saginaw Valley State University in 2018. She is a certified and licensed athletic trainer in both Michigan and Indiana.       

“As an athlete myself I fell in love with the athletic environment and knew that I wanted to continue to be involved. I also knew that I wanted to help others and be of service in the athletic community.  This combination led me to athletic training! I have been on the sidelines cheering and helping these great student athletes when in need.”

Julie Legault, AT, is currently seeing athletes within Buchanan Public School system. Julie earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Central Michigan University and is certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association and licensed in the state of Michigan. She has been working with athletes of all ages since 1990.

“After undergoing knee surgery as a college athlete, I decided I wanted to help other athletes in similar situations, whether it be through prevention or rehabilitation of injuries.  I love working with student athletes and can't imagine a more rewarding profession.”

Allison Richardson, MS, LAT, ATC, is currently seeing athletes at Lake Michigan Catholic High School in Berrien County. Allison earned a bachelor's degree in athletic training from Anderson University and a master's degree from Western Michigan University. She has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association since 2011 and is licensed in the state of Michigan.

"When I was in high school, I wanted to have a career in the medical field, and I loved sports. Athletic training was a natural combination of the two. I enjoy helping athletes be the best they can be on the field and in life!"

Megan Swartz, AT, is currently seeing athletes at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic School in and various other school systems. Megan earned a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University. She has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association since 2013 and is licensed in the State of Michigan. 

"I discovered the field of athletic training when I was injured in high school and have loved it ever since. It is very rewarding to see an athlete through an injury from start to finish and see them return to the sport or activity they love."

Adam Thiesse, AT, is currently seeing athletes at St. Joseph High School. Adam earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Central Michigan University. He is a certified clinical exercise physiologist (CEP) and has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association since 2016 and is licensed in the State of Michigan.

“I always wanted a career that would allow me to help others while remaining part of the sports environment. In my role as an athletic trainer, I enjoy working with athletes to get them back to their peak performance and I can’t imagine doing more rewarding work.” 

Dan Tinkey, AT, is currently seeing athletes within the Lakeshore Public School system. Dan earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Western Michigan University and is certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association and licensed in the state of Michigan. He has been working with athletes of all ages since 1980.

“Growing up an athlete myself, I aspired to continue coaching or teaching and found that athletic training was a field that allowed me to work with a variety of sports and athletes. I began my career at Lakeland when the sports medicine program was just getting its start and I’m proud to have worked closely with local school systems ever since.”