Former Anna Maria College Head Athletic Trainer brings nearly 20 years of experience leading sports medicine programs and supporting student-athlete health and performance

STOW, Mass. — July 11, 2026 — Masters Academy International (MAI) today announced the hiring of veteran athletic trainer John Shliapa as Head Athletic Trainer.

Shliapa brings nearly two decades of athletic training experience spanning the collegiate and high school levels, including the past 17 years at Anna Maria College, where he most recently served as Head Athletic Trainer. Throughout his career, he has helped student-athletes prevent injuries, recover safely, maximize performance and prioritize their overall health and well-being.

At MAI, Shliapa will lead the academy’s sports medicine department, overseeing injury prevention, emergency care, rehabilitation and return-to-play protocols while developing comprehensive medical policies, procedures and performance standards. He will work closely with coaches, faculty and medical partners to create an environment where every student-athlete receives the highest standard of care.

“Providing exceptional support for our student-athletes extends far beyond the classroom and the field of play,” said Micah Hauben, Athletic Director of Masters Academy International. “John understands that elite athletic performance begins with elite care. His experience, professionalism and genuine commitment to student-athlete well-being will help ensure our athletes have the resources they need to compete safely, recover effectively and perform at their highest level.”

During his tenure at Anna Maria College, Shliapa oversaw sports medicine services for 13 NCAA athletic programs, including football, ice hockey and lacrosse. In addition, he collaborated with the college’s health and counseling services to expand mental health awareness initiatives for student-athletes while also increasing education surrounding concussion management, hydration and nutrition. In 2021, he was recognized as part of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Athletic Training Staff of the Year.

Earlier in his career, Shliapa served as Head Athletic Trainer for Auburn High School and Nashoba Regional High School while working with South County Physical Therapy. He also gained valuable clinical experience at Northeastern University, Harvard University and Emmanuel College while earning his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Northeastern University.

“What excites me most about MAI is the opportunity to build a culture where student-athletes know their overall health and well-being comes first,” said Shliapa. “Athletic training is about more than treating injuries—it’s about building relationships, educating athletes and helping them stay healthy so they can reach their full potential. I’m excited to work alongside an outstanding coaching staff and support these student-athletes throughout their journey.”

A Worcester native, Shliapa currently resides in Worcester with his wife, Tiffany, their three children and two rescue dogs.

About Masters Academy International: Masters Academy International (MAI) is an elite boarding and day school opening in Stow, Massachusetts, designed to redefine the student-athlete experience. MAI prepares students to think, train, and perform at professional standards by integrating pro-level coaching, top-tier academics, and comprehensive student development into one aligned model — ensuring students never have to compromise one for the other. The school is operated in partnership with Cognita, a global education leader with more than 100 premium private schools worldwide. MAI provides a structured pathway for students aspiring to compete at the collegiate and professional levels while excelling in the classroom and in life. Learn more at https://www.mastersacademyinternational.com/.

Media Contact: Joe Zarbano, Regan Communications on behalf of Masters Academy International, jzarbano@regancomm.com.