At Acalanes High School, student-athletes thrive thanks to an impressive network of support coaches, volunteers, and parents who pour their energy into the school’s athletic programs. But one name stands out for his daily impact, tireless dedication, and deep care for the well-being of every student: Chris Clark.
Chris Clark has been a cornerstone of the Acalanes athletic community since 2004. Over the past two decades, he has earned the trust and respect of students, staff, and families alike not only through his clinical expertise as an athletic trainer, but also as a teacher, coach, and mentor. In short, Chris is one of Acalanes’ most valuable assets.
Clark brings a unique blend of qualifications to his role. He graduated from St. Mary’s College with a BS in Economics and Business Administration while simultaneously completing his athletic training and kinesiology education at Cal State East Bay. His background is further strengthened by training as an EMT and licensed massage therapist, giving him a rare combination of medical, therapeutic, and athletic insight. That expertise makes him indispensable when athletes are injured, recovering, or seeking to improve their physical performance safely.
Before joining Acalanes, Chris began his athletic training career working at his alma mater, St. Mary’s High School in Berkeley, and a small physical therapy clinic in the same city. His early experiences set the stage for the calm, knowledgeable, and professional demeanor he’s now known for on campus.
Since arriving at Acalanes, Chris has become more than just the go-to athletic trainer. He currently teaches full-time and serves as the Physical Education Department Chair, helping shape the school’s curriculum and wellness culture. In the spring, he can be found out on the field coaching shot put and discus, continuing to build personal relationships with student-athletes and guiding them toward both athletic and personal growth.
Chris’s role, as Athletic Trainer at Acalanes, is fully funded by the Acalanes Sports Boosters, who cover his full compensation and the cost of supplies, a financial commitment they see as more than worthwhile. Indeed! He works with every team. His presence ensures that athletes are not only cared for in times of injury but are also supported year-round with prevention strategies, rehab protocols, and personal guidance that would be hard to replicate without someone of his background and passion.
Outside of work, Chris has a DONtastic family with his wife, Amanda, who runs the Acalanes Merch for Boosters and their two children, Charlotte, a current Don, and J.T., a future Don. Even with a full family life, he continues to show up for the Acalanes community day in and day out with the same energy and care he’s shown for over 20 years, true aca-LOVE-nes!
From the training room to the classroom to the throwing ring, Chris Clark does it all—and then some. Need an ankle taped, a pep talk, a last-minute ice pack, or a department led with heart? Chris is your guy. He’s not just part of the Acalanes Athletic Program; he’s the glue, the spark, and sometimes even the Gatorade. The Acalanes Sports Boosters are proud to fund this all-star, whose impact stretches far beyond stats and schedules. Chris shows up every day with a rare mix of skill, heart, and hustle, proving that behind every great team is someone even greater making it all happen.