FC Tulsa names OSU Medicine official sports medicine partner

FC Tulsa announced Thursday that Oklahoma State University Medicine would be the organization’s official sports medicine partner for the Oklahoma professional soccer club.

The exclusive agreement creates a relationship whereby OSU sports medicine physicians and athletic trainers work closely with FC Tulsa performance coaches to reduce and treat injury, increase performance and consult on nutrition plans. The agreement also provides OSU athletic training students with educational opportunities and a pathway to potential full-time positions with FC Tulsa.

“We’re thrilled to solidify this partnership with OSU Medicine,” said Ryan Craft, co-owner of FC Tulsa. “By teaming up with OSU’s sports medicine program, we’re not only prioritizing the performance and recovery of our athletes but also nurturing a pathway for the next generation of sports medicine professionals. This collaboration will undoubtedly elevate our standards in injury prevention, treatment and overall player care.”

Partnering with OSU Medicine provides our athletes with access to elite medical care. This allows for a quick triage to determine any imagining needed for diagnosis and treatment. This facilitates our athletes to return to the pitch as quickly and safely as possible. This partnership allows collaboration with Drs. James Cornwell, Chad Hanson and the rest of the health professionals with OSU Medicine to provide the best care for our athletes, said Craft.

“We’re so proud of this new partnership, which is a testament to OSU’s sports medicine program,” said Bill Schloss, chief operating officer for OSU Center for Health Sciences. “Our OSU Medicine physicians and sports medicine professional staff will ensure a continuity of care that enhances and improves recovery time and health outcomes for these professional soccer players.”

OSU Medicine also serves as the official sports medicine partner for Tulsa Oilers professional hockey and arena football teams in Tulsa, as well as USA BMX.

The FC Tulsa 2024 home opener is set for Friday, April 5, at ONEOK Field.