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For the past 16 years, the University of Virginia (UVA) baseball program has consistently excelled, making seven trips to the Men’s College World Series and capturing the NCAA title in 2015.
While the head coach Brian O’Connor and associate head coach Kevin McMullan are often credited for this success, another crucial figure is Brian McGuire, the associate Athletic Trainer, whose impact is equally profound but less heralded.
Brian McGuire, affectionately known as B-Mac, joined UVA from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he had been the clinical director of physical therapy. His dedication and expertise quickly became apparent, leading to his full-time appointment to the baseball program in 2004, upon O’Connor’s insistence.
O'Connor praised McGuire's elite skills and commitment:
"He's one of the keys that make us go. There’s no question about that. His loyalty to this program, his commitment to the young men, it’s just tireless."
McGuire’s role has evolved significantly over the years. Initially supervising graduate assistants, he soon took a hands-on approach, working directly with the team.
His meticulous, detail-oriented nature and deep understanding of athletic injuries have been pivotal in helping countless players return to peak condition.
This includes players like Aidan Teel, who benefited greatly from McGuire’s guidance during his recovery from Tommy John surgery.
Beyond his technical skills, McGuire is described by O’Connor as a fierce competitor and a compassionate mentor who continuously updates his knowledge to stay at the forefront of sports medicine.
His personal philosophy, shaped by his wrestling background, emphasizes resilience and the ability to thrive under pressure. McGuire finds profound satisfaction not only in the physical recovery of his athletes but in witnessing their personal growth throughout their collegiate careers.
"Now I think it’s seeing over the years how these young men at 17, 18-years-old come in and how they just grow and mature and change as people and as men from point A to point B. And just to know that you were kind of a part of those physical ups and downs, the mental ups and downs, the successes, the failures, that right now is probably the primary joy."
As UVA looks forward to another promising season, McGuire’s role remains indispensable. His unique blend of expertise, dedication, and personal care continues to be a cornerstone of the Cavaliers’ sustained success in collegiate baseball.
Read his full story here!
