Our approach to student-athlete care

Sandburg uses a scientific approach to help athletes perform at their maximum capability by helping athletes develop an understanding of the links between fitness, exercise, diet and health. Staff areas of expertise for our staff include: biomechanics, sports nutrition, sport & exercise psychology, motor control/development, and exercise physiology. In addition, athletes receive guidance evaluating health behaviors and risk factors, conducting fitness assessments, developing individual weight training plans, and promoting positive health habits that our athletes can use for the rest of their lives.

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Brandon Fox serves as the athletic trainer, student-athlete health care contact and athletics health care administrator for Chargers athletics. A Sandburg alum, Fox attended Western Illinois University, where he earned a B.S. in kinesiology/athletic training. To continue his health care education, Fox attended Logan College of Chiropractic, where he earned both his master's in sports science & rehabilitation and his doctor of chiropractic degree. Fox has held credentials through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NCSA) as a CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) and through Kettlebell Athletics. Questions on athlete care can be sent to bfox@sandburg.edu or call 309-341-5202.

SPORTS MEDICINE

Injuries are an unfortunate possibility during sports competition and training. At Sandburg, we strive to minimize this risk via appropriately prescribed exercise (both with resistance training and aerobic conditioning) as a form of injury prevention. However, if pain or injury does occur, however, there is a course of action that ensues: the athlete will see our athletic trainer to evaluate the issue and perform the appropriate diagnosis. This is often resolved with an alteration in training strategies and variables (modification of intensity, frequency, adopting altered movement patterns, rehab, etc.).

Occasionally further medical evaluation may be necessary. We've established relationships with qualified local physicians and can make the appropriate referral should an athlete need assistance setting up an appointment in the area. Athletes or their parents may also can choose to see a physician closer to home due to personal preference or to meet primary insurance requirements.

Note: The sport accident insurance provided by the college for athletes doesn't provide any benefits until your primary health insurance has is applied.

MENTAL HEALTH & SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY

Sandburg students get free access to the TimelyCare telehealth program to receive on-demand support from counselors, doctors, nurse practitioners and more, right at your fingertips. Through convenient use of the TimelyCare app, Chargers get:

• Medical - 24/7, on-demand and scheduled medical visits
• TalkNow - 24/7, on-demand mental health support
• Scheduled counseling - access licensed counselors in your state
• Psychiatry - access to no-cost psychiatry services