Pfeiffer University Athletics and Atrium Health Launch Sports Medicine Partnership
 
MISENHEIMER, N.C. – (June 27, 2025) – Pfeiffer University Athletics announces a partnership with Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute to provide more than 400 Pfeiffer student-athletes access to a dedicated team of Atrium Health orthopedic experts. The joint effort will deliver a full range of services focused on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and overall wellness, empowering Falcon athletes to stay healthy and perform at their best year-round.
 
"This collaboration represents an important step forward in Pfeiffer's ongoing commitment to the health, safety, and performance of our student-athletes," said Darci Dickison, sports medicine manager, Pfeiffer University. "It ensures they will receive the highest standard of care in every aspect of their athletic experience."
 
Teaming with Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, orthopedics and sports medicine experts connect Pfeiffer University with one of the largest athletic training programs in the country. Atrium Health currently partners with more than 80 local high school, collegiate, and professional teams, providing extensive experience and resources to support athletes' health and performance.
 
"Our teams have a deep understanding of the unique challenges athletes face and are dedicated to providing care that supports proper recovery and safe performance," said Jennifer Gardner, assistant vice president of outreach, sports medicine, and event medicine, Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute.

"We're proud to welcome Pfeiffer University to our network of athletic trainer services and look forward to forging a path forward together in advancing athlete care and wellness."

Key features of the partnership include:

• Sports nutrition and sports psychology programs
• Priority access and clinical navigation to support the athlete's medical needs
• A full-time certified Atrium Health athletic trainers embedded within Pfeiffer's athletic department.
• Injury prevention and performance enhancement programs
• Educational workshops for athletes, coaches, and staff

 
"This partnership is about keeping athletes in the game and doing what they love," said Dr. Stephen Furr, sports medicine physician with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. "By bringing specialized care directly to campus, we're helping student-athletes stay healthy, recover fully, and get back to their sport with confidence."
 
By expanding access to specialized care and support services, Pfeiffer University is deepening its investment in the well-being of its students and the continued growth of its NCAA Division III athletic programs.