Sports medicine keeps local athletes in the game

From Friday night lights to collegiate competition, athletics are part of the fabric of Pennsylvania communities. Behind every successful team is a strong support system — and for more than 30 schools and organizations in the region, that support comes from Geisinger

As the official sports medicine provider for many local high schools, colleges and minor league teams, Geisinger takes a comprehensive approach to keep athletes healthy, performing at their best and ready for game day.

Geisinger athletic trainers tend to a patient.

A true partner in athletic health

Geisinger’s sports medicine program is the largest in the region, bringing together certified athletic trainers, orthopaedic specialists, surgeons and affiliated physicians to support athletes of all ages and skill levels. But what truly sets the program apart is its presence, not just in clinics, but on the sidelines, in training rooms and throughout the entire athletic season.

“Our goal is to work very collaboratively with the athlete, athletic trainer and coaching staff,” says Justin Tunis, MD, Geisinger sports medicine physician and head team physician for The University of Scranton and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. “The shared goal is healthy athletes. When you build that trust and maintain those relationships, athletes feel cared for and know their health is the top priority.”

Immediate care, seamless access

For athletes, quick, expert treatment can make all the difference. Embedded athletic trainers serve as the first line of care, with physicians and specialists joining in when needed.

“Having a physician available weekly is a huge plus,” says Michael Sweitzer Jr., head athletic trainer at The University of Scranton. “It gives us another set of eyes on injuries and allows for advanced care right away. Working as a team means athletes get the fastest, most appropriate care possible.”

From on-site ultrasounds at games to expedited referrals for imaging, injections or surgery, Geisinger streamlines every step of the process.

Comprehensive care for every athlete

For schools, Geisinger’s sports medicine services span the full spectrum, from injury prevention to minimally invasive procedures and rehabilitation. Athletes have treatment options such as physical therapy, platelet-rich plasma injections and ultrasound-guided injections, as well as surgical expertise when needed.

No matter the injury, the focus remains the same: helping athletes return safely, perform confidently and protect their long-term health.

Prevention as a priority

Treating injuries is critical, but so is preventing them. Geisinger works closely with coaches and athletic trainers to identify patterns, implement targeted training programs and prepare athletes for the demands of their sport.

“Prevention is one of the pillars of sports medicine,” Dr. Tunis says. “The more prepared athletes are going into a season, the lower their risk of injury.”

Building trust across communities

Geisinger’s impact goes beyond the field or court. By partnering with schools and teams, from local high schools to minor-league teams like the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and the RailRiders, the health system strengthens communities.

Coaches, administrators and families all benefit from the reassurance that athletes are supported by a trusted, experienced care team. And for student-athletes, that support can shape not only their performance, but their long-term health and well-being.

“The most important part of Geisinger’s role is the team emphasis,” says Mr. Sweitzer. “From athletic trainers to physicians, everyone is working together with one goal: making sure athletes get the care they need, when they need it.”