In Charlotte, the Panthers are preparing to integrate Alexis LeMone into their training staff this summer, as part of the NFL’s Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative. LeMone, a medical student at Wake Forest, is one of 29 students from across the country participating in this program aimed at diversifying NFL medical teams.
“I’m most looking forward to experiencing a different approach to medicine,” LeMone commented upon the announcement this week.
Now in its third year, the initiative is a collaboration between the NFL, NFL Physicians Society (NFLPS), and Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society (PFATS), focused on encouraging diverse medical students to pursue careers in sports medicine and ultimately diversifying NFL medical staffs.
“We’re thrilled to welcome this year’s group of students and provide them with the opportunity to learn from our club medical staffs,” said Dr. Allen Sills, NFL Chief Medical Officer. “This season, we have a talented group from a variety of medical schools, furthering our efforts to attract diverse talent to sports medicine.”
LeMone, who swam at Davidson College, where she became the first Black woman to compete on the Division 1 team, sees her background as an athlete influencing her decision to pursue orthopedics.
During her time with the Panthers, LeMone will work under the supervision of team physicians, many affiliated with Atrium Health, the Panthers’ healthcare provider, and alongside the club’s athletic trainers. Her role will involve observing medical practices and engaging directly with players.
“I’m excited for this exposure. As a former athlete, I understand sports medicine from that perspective, but now I’ll see it from the medical side,” LeMone shared. “Working with professional athletes at this level is a unique opportunity.”
LeMone’s participation follows last year’s involvement of another Wake Forest student, Alexis Restrepo, who spoke highly of the program to LeMone, influencing her decision to apply.
“I’m eager to deepen my understanding of sports medicine, especially at the professional level where innovation and care standards are exceptionally high,” LeMone added.
