When you walk into the Bradway Family Peak Performance Center on any afternoon, you’ll see students stretching, rehabbing, and gearing up for practices and games. At the center is Dr. Miguel Romero-Sanchez, Viewpoint’s longtime athletic trainer, who has dedicated his career to keeping students healthy, safe, and performing at their best.

We sat down with Dr. Romero-Sanchez to hear his insights on the Sports Medicine program, a typical day in the Bradway Family Peak Performance Center, and his philosophy on injury prevention and recovery.

Katerina: How long have you been at Viewpoint, and what brought you here?

Miguel: I just completed my 15th year at Viewpoint. Like many others in the independent school world, I knew someone here who recommended me for the position.

Katerina: Can you give us an overview of the Sports Medicine program and the services you provide?

Miguel: Our program is designed not only to respond to injuries but also to help student-athletes develop healthy habits that support long-term wellness. We provide comprehensive care that includes prevention, emergency response, evaluation and treatment, referrals, rehabilitation, and return-to-play planning. Beyond the clinic, we educate students on hydration, nutrition, safe training habits, and recovery, with the goal of creating a proactive, supportive environment where they can thrive.

Katerina: What does a typical day look like for you during a busy sports season?

Miguel: During a busy season, my day starts around 10:30 a.m. with administrative work such as updating injury logs, communicating with parents, coaches, and doctors, and prepping supplies in the Bradway Family Peak Performance Center. The busiest stretch is I Block and lunch, when our open clinic sees dozens of student-athletes for evaluations, treatments, therapy exercises, and recovery.

The afternoon is spent getting teams ready to depart with taping, bracing, and mobility work, followed by another rush after school as athletes prepare for practices and games. I remain on-site as a first responder during events, then finish the day with injury evaluations, conversations with parents and coaches, and equipment breakdown.

Katerina: How do you collaborate with coaches, parents, and staff to support student-athletes?

Miguel: Collaboration with all the stakeholders is key. Maintaining open lines of communication is essential for the care of our student-athletes. I communicate and collaborate with coaches regarding athlete status and safe training loads. I work with parents to ensure they’re informed and involved in decisions about care and return-to-play. I also coordinate with school nurses, counselors, learning specialists, and PE staff when necessary, especially for students recovering from concussions or significant injuries. It's truly a team effort, and strong relationships help us all support the whole student-athlete.

Katerina: What’s your philosophy when it comes to injury prevention and recovery?

Miguel: I believe prevention starts with education, preparation, and consistency. Proper warm-ups, hydration, sleep, and strength work all reduce risk. When injuries do happen, recovery should be personalized and progressive, balancing physical rehab with mental readiness. I aim to return athletes to play smarter and stronger, not just as fast as possible. Long-term health and sustainability always guide our approach.

Katerina: Why do you think it’s important for Viewpoint to invest in sports medicine and athletic training support?

Miguel: Our athletes face high physical and emotional demands, and without proper sports medicine support, their health, safety, and performance can suffer. By investing in athletic training, Viewpoint ensures injuries are managed correctly, risks are minimized, and students get the care they deserve. It also shows that Viewpoint values wellness and is committed to a professional standard of care, which benefits not only our athletes but also their families and the entire athletic culture on campus.

Katerina: Can you share a memorable or rewarding moment from your time at Viewpoint?

Miguel: The most rewarding moments are when a student-athlete returns from a significant injury. Being part of their journey through adversity is incredibly fulfilling. Watching them work hard for weeks or even months to return to their sport, contribute to their team, and achieve success after injury is a powerful experience. It’s not always about the sport, it’s about the perseverance of the individual. Being a small part of that process means everything to me.