NFL Announces New Class of ‘Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative’

The National Football League has announced the roster of medical students participating in the NFL Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative. This league-wide program, launched in 2022 with the NFL Physicians Society and the Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society, aims to increase and diversify the pipeline of students interested in sports medicine careers, including on NFL club medical staffs.

Image: NFL medical staff

A Dream Come True for Aspiring Physicians

During their one-month rotations, students will observe and participate in the care of NFL players, working directly with and under the supervision of the orthopedic team physicians, primary care team physicians, athletic trainers, dietitians, mental health clinicians, strength & conditioning coaches, equipment managers, and others to gain medical knowledge and exposure to patient care in sports medicine.

“As a lifelong NFL fan and aspiring primary care sports medicine physician, it is a dream come true to learn from the multidisciplinary medical teams that provide unparalleled and innovative care to the nation’s top athletes,” said Michael Baham, a student at the University of California Irvine School of Medicine and program participant with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Image: Michael Baham

Expanding Clinical Knowledge

Students will also become familiar with return-to-play protocols and on-field treatment considerations for NFL players. By the end of the rotation, students will understand the basic elements of all facets of care provided to NFL players from an orthopedic, primary care sports medicine and athletic training perspective.

Image: NFL players on the field

A Commitment to Diversity in Medicine

The NFL Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative is part of the league’s commitment to diversifying the field of medicine. The program aims to increase the number of students from underrepresented backgrounds who pursue careers in sports medicine.

Image: NFL logo

Conclusion

The NFL Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative is a unique opportunity for medical students to gain hands-on experience in sports medicine and learn from the best in the field. With its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the NFL is helping to shape the future of sports medicine.