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Yale Athletics has announced the return of Paul Smith as the new Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Health & Performance.
The hire was confirmed by Victoria M. "Vicky" Chun, Yale’s Thomas A. Beckett Director of Athletics, who praised Smith’s commitment to student-athlete care.
“His dedication to the health, well-being, and performance of student-athletes is second to none,” said Chun. “His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to elevate our commitment to holistic student-athlete care.”
In his new role, Smith will oversee Yale’s athletic medicine and sports performance departments, providing strategic direction and administrative leadership across all 35 varsity sports. He will also act as a key liaison to Yale Mental Health & Counseling, strengthening collaboration with the department’s embedded mental health counselor to ensure comprehensive support for student-athletes.
“I am honored to rejoin Yale Athletics in this role,” said Smith. “I look forward to working closely with our Athletic Medicine, Sports Performance, and Mental Health & Counseling staffs to enhance the student-athlete experience and ensure Yale remains a leader in student-athlete care and performance.”
Smith most recently served at the University of Arizona as Associate Director for Medical Services and Head Football Athletic Trainer. His previous tenure at Yale (2017–2020) included roles as Associate Head Athletic Trainer and Head Football Athletic Trainer.
He also brings experience from Boise State University, where he directed athletic training for football. In 2017, he was recognized with the Northwest Athletic Trainers' Association’s New Horizon Award for his leadership and service to the profession.
Smith holds a bachelor’s in athletic training from Boston University and a master’s in kinesiology from Boise State. He is certified by the NATA Board of Certification and is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA.
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