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When Suffolk University point guard Maddie Stewart, BS ’25, heard a pop in her right knee mid-game, she knew it was bad. It marked her second season-ending injury in college basketball.
“Not being able to play—that was the hardest part,” she said. But through both recoveries, it was Suffolk’s Athletic Training Department that kept her focused, positive, and on the path to recovery. “They gave me the emotional support and mental encouragement I needed,” she added.
Housed in the Ridgeway Building, Suffolk’s state-of-the-art Athletic Training Department serves over 360 student-athletes across 20 NCAA Division III sports. Led by head Athletic Trainer Sam O’Brien, alongside Levi Roberts and Ashley Turner, the department provides comprehensive care—everything from injury screenings to post-surgical rehab.
“Our main goal is keeping everyone safe and healthy while playing the sport they love,” said O’Brien. “The best part of our job is seeing the smile on their faces when they return.”
That sentiment is echoed by baseball player Cole Hilliard, BSBA ’25, who tore his meniscus and relied heavily on the department during rehab.
“Sam was the No. 1 reason I was able to get back on the field,” Hilliard said. Inspired by their work, he later joined as an intern. “They work so hard to help us stay healthy and be the best version of ourselves.”
Affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital’s Sports Medicine Service, Suffolk student-athletes also have access to premier resources used by Boston’s professional teams.
But it’s the day-to-day presence of the Athletic Trainers—at practices, games, and on the road—that makes the biggest difference.
“We’re behind the scenes,” said O’Brien, “but we’re with our athletes every step of the way.”
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