
Age
28
Gender
Male
Ethnicity
Black/African
Hobbies and interests
Mentoring
Exercise And Fitness
Matthew McElroy
1,415
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Matthew McElroy
1,415
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
Hello! My name is Matthew McElroy. As the first generation in my family to receive a college degree, I look forward to becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer! My goals are to change and support the lives of current athletes along the lines of rehabilitation, recovery, and mental stability. I have participated in six years of collegiate baseball, as sports are my favorite past time. I value “three D’s” in my daily life, Desire, Dedication, and Discipline.
In 2015, I started my undergrad at Merced College as undecided, with a primary focus in health and education. As I managed school and baseball, I was working part time.
In 2016, I was injured during a regular season game that ended the rest of my freshman season. During the rough time and heart break of a season ending injury, I was able to meet with medical staffs and physical therapists that sparked an idea and interest of a lifetime!
In 2017, I was able to grow and persevere mentally and physically. Not only did this incident reflect on the baseball field, but in the class room as well. I made a choice to find a more structured plan for my future. As plans went accordingly even through the roughest of a pandemic, I was able to play my senior season of baseball and receive my Bachelors’ in Kinesiology from Sterling College.
2024, I am motivated and thrilled to announce that I am attending University of Idaho, as I work toward my Masters’ in Athletic training.
“I will be strong and courageous, I will not be afraid or discouraged; For the Lord is with me wherever I go.” ~Joshua 1:9
Education
University of Idaho
Master's degree programSterling College (KS)
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Sports
Dream career goals:
Certified athletic trainer, non-profit leader.
Student Athletic Trainer(baseball)
University of Florida2024 – Present1 yearStudent Athletic Trainer
Vanderbilt University2024 – 2024Volunteer; Athletic Training
Los Medanos College2022 – 2022Physical therapist technician
Spine and sports Physical Therapy2021 – 20221 year
Sports
Baseball
Varsity2015 – 20216 years
Awards
- Team Captain
Research
Health and Medical Administrative Services
Note and journaling questions and discussions2022 – Present
Public services
Volunteering
All sports Training center — Skills, fundamental, recovery, conditioning2015 – Present
Future Interests
Volunteering
Kelly S. Ellis Athletic Training Scholarship
My passion for athletic training began during my first year of college baseball, when I sustained a shoulder injury. The AT and PT staff at my junior college played a pivotal role in both my recovery and in opening my eyes to a new path forward. The defining moment came when I realized I could stay connected to the sport I’ve loved since I was four years old, not as a player, but as someone who helps athletes perform at their best. The “if I can’t beat them, join them” mentality sparked a deeper purpose, helping the next generation of athletes chase greatness.
Currently, I’m in the second year of my graduate program at The University of Idaho, working toward my master’s in athletic training. My long-term career goal is to work at the professional level of baseball, but I also have a strong interest in serving overseas, whether in athletics or in a military setting. I’m passionate about combining performance care with purpose-driven service, wherever that may take me.
I’ve always believed in giving back to the community that raised me. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve done this is by hosting free youth baseball camps at the same local facility where I trained growing up. These camps not only gave kids access to skill development but also emphasized mentorship, health, and love for the game, just like others did for me when I was young.
I’m funding my education independently and through student loans, which adds financial stress on top of an already demanding graduate program. This fall, I’ll be heading to Rice University for a clinical rotation with the cross country team, which is an incredible opportunity but comes with increased personal expenses. I’m also preparing for the BOC exam in April 2026, which is another critical step toward licensure and professional readiness. This scholarship would directly support those goals by easing the financial burden and allowing me to fully invest in my clinical development.
Throughout my life, I’ve never imagined being in Masters level courses. Although there has been challenges, I know for a fact that God has and always will provide. Putting my best foot forward and leading with faith is how I will continue to be successful. Making an adjustment from undergrad level (3.0gpa) to Masters level (3.5gpa) has also been rewarding for me.
I would like to say thank you for this opportunity and your commitment to Athletic training does not go unnoticed. Thank you for your time.