Biola University Athletics

Unfortunately from time to time, student-athletes get injured. The athletic training staff is present at home games and practices and provides emergency medical care as needed. Most injuries do not require visiting a doctor. Our athletic trainers (ATCs) are skilled in evaluating injuries and establishing treatment protocols and rehabilitation programs to return student-athletes to full health. Injuries require time to heal, and overuse injuries often require more time than acute injuries such as contusions and sprains. If no improvement occurs, we refer to a doctor — at which point we provide key insights on what specifically alleviates or irritates the condition. This information is critical and helpful to the physician making their diagnosis.

Certified athletic trainers (ATCs) are health care professionals who specialize in the prevention, recognition, evaluation, assessment, immediate care, treatment, rehabilitation, and reconditioning of injuries to athletes and those engaged in physical activity. The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) is the largest organization representing athletic trainers. NATA Board of Certification certified athletic trainers have met educational and experiential requirements and have passed a national competency examination. ATCs also maintain certification through the American Red Cross in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer.

The physicians we have working relationships with are some of the best orthopedic doctors in the Southern California area. The athlete's primary insurance dictates which health care provider athletes are referred to for further consultation. In addition to orthopedics, referrals may also be made to neurologists, dentists, and other specialists as needed. Our primary team physician is Dr. David Kruse, with Cedars-Sinai. Linda Ruggles is our insurance specialist on staff.

ATCs travel with high-risk sports to almost all matches/competitions. In the absence of a traveling ATC, the host school provides athletic training coverage. If a student-athlete has any special needs, notification is sent prior to the event to the host ATC so those needs can be met appropriately.

Since the terms and conditions of scholarships may vary, you should be in direct contact with the head coach of the team that made the award. The athletic training staff has no input on the awarding of scholarships. It is important to note that all athletic aid agreements are for one year only per NCAA legislation (15.5.3.1).

Since most student-athletes are considered adults, we may be limited in how much we can discuss with parents. If a concern should arise, encourage your student-athlete to contact Director of Sports Medicine, John Wiese, directly.

• John Wiese — Director of Sports Medicine
• Linda Ruggles — Associate Athletic Trainer
• Elle Baca — Athletic Trainer
• Kayla Yanke — Athletic Trainer
• Abner Rodriguez — Athletic Trainer
• Kenton Tom — Athletic Trainer
• Matt Larsen — Director of Sport Performance
• Dr. David Kruse, MD — Team Physician