News & Events
Heekin Orthopaedic and Brooks Rehab form Sports Medicine Alliance at Ponte Vedra High School
April 14, 2008Principal Craig Speziale and Athletic Director Gene Baker are pleased to announce the formation of the Sports Medicine initiative at Ponte Vedra High School. After a lengthy process of interviews and discussions with several area orthopedic physicians and rehabilitation and therapy groups, the school has partnered with Heekin Orthopaedic Specialists, led by team doctor, Kevin Murphy, and the Brooks Center for Sports Therapy. “The health and well-being of our students is of paramount concern to me,” commented Speziale. “I personally sat in on a number of Gene’s meetings with medical professionals in the community and I am confident we have continued on our path of providing the best opportunities for our students.”
The final choice of Heekin/Brooks was not one taken lightly by Baker. “As you might suspect, there was no shortage of interest among the medical community in being involved with our athletes. My best estimate would be about a half dozen each, doctors and therapy clinics, that expressed an interest in being of service to our athletes.” With several college athletic departments and the Jaguars all in close proximity, as well as several world-renowned medical facilities, the Jacksonville/Ponte Vedra area is densely populated with highly qualified physicians and therapists.
Baker lamented the task of identifying the best among a group so well prepared to serve his student-athletes. “I’ve had my share of surgeries and rehab stints, but none of that equates to being an expert on choosing a team doctor. In the end, I was very impressed with Dr. Murphy’s medical and athletic background, as well as the recommendations I received from several community members that have been impressed with his work.” To Baker, Brooks also seemed a clear choice. “The proximity to the school (Brooks has opened a new facility in Ponte Vedra Beach) makes Brooks a more convenient choice for our families.” Brooks will still provide the choice of rehabbing at the Center for Sports Therapy, but, for ongoing work, having the clinic right on A1A is a huge factor. “Additionally, Brooks has developed a tremendous working relationship with Heekin through programs at other area schools, and, finally, Brooks will play a large role in equipping the athletic training room in our school.”
