West Virginia University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced that Michael Polascik has been hired as the assistant athletic director/head athletic trainer for football…

West Virginia University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced that Michael Polascik has been hired as the assistant athletic director/head athletic trainer for football

 

Morgantown, W.Va. – April 10, 2025 – West Virginia University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced today that Michael Polascik has been appointed as the new Assistant Athletic Director and Head Athletic Trainer for the Mountaineer football program.

 

Polascik joins the WVU athletic department with over a decade of experience in sports medicine, athletic training, and player health management at both collegiate and professional levels. In his new role, he will oversee all aspects of athletic training and medical care for the football program, including injury prevention, rehabilitation, and player wellness, while also serving in a senior administrative capacity within the athletic department.

 

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael Polascik to the Mountaineer family,” said WVU Director of Athletics Wren Baker. “Michael brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and experience in athletic training, and we are confident that he will provide outstanding care and guidance to our student-athletes. His passion for athlete health and safety, along with his strong background in high-level football, makes him a perfect fit for our program.”

 

Polascik most recently served as the Associate Head Athletic Trainer for Football at the University of Illinois, where he was an integral part of the sports medicine staff. He played a key role in implementing innovative recovery protocols, enhancing injury prevention strategies, and collaborating with coaches, strength staff, and team physicians to ensure comprehensive care for athletes.

 

Prior to his tenure at Illinois, Polascik held athletic training positions at Texas A&M and Duke University, gaining extensive experience in managing high-performance athlete care and contributing to championship-level teams. His diverse experience across programs in the Big Ten, SEC, and ACC gives him a unique perspective and valuable insight into the evolving demands of modern collegiate athletics.

 

“I’m incredibly excited and honored to join West Virginia University,” said Polascik. “This program has a rich tradition and a passionate fan base, and I look forward to contributing to the continued success of Mountaineer football. My goal is to foster an environment where our student-athletes feel supported, safe, and equipped to perform at their best—both on and off the field.”

 

Polascik holds a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from James Madison University and a master’s degree in exercise and sport science from the University of North Carolina. He is also a certified athletic trainer (ATC) and a member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA). Known for his athlete-centered approach and commitment to holistic care, Polascik is expected to play a key role in enhancing WVU’s overall sports medicine infrastructure.

 

As preparations begin for the 2025 season, Polascik will immediately begin working with the Mountaineer football staff during spring training and off-season workouts.

 

West Virginia University continues to invest in top-tier personnel and resources in its mission to support student-athlete health, performance, and development. With Polascik’s addition, the program takes another step forward in building a comprehensive and elite-level football support system.