In this episode of Life Beyond Labels, Kelsey talks with Dr. Scott Lynch, a former Director of Athletic Medicine at Penn State, who shares his story of advocating for athlete safety. Dr. Lynch discusses the challenges he faced in prioritizing player health over coaching pressures and the systemic issues in college sports. He emphasizes the importance of speaking up against unethical practices and proposes solutions for better athlete care, including independent oversight in sports medicine. This conversation highlights the need for a cultural shift in how athletes are viewed and treated, advocating for the prioritization of their well-being and safety.

What to Expect:

• Lynch’s journey from being an elite Penn State wrestler, studying engineering, to pursuing medicine.
• Lynch emphasizes the importance of prioritizing athlete health over winning.
• There are solutions (such as third-party oversight) possible to create change.
• Lynch encourages players to speak up about their experiences.
• The conversation highlights the need for cultural change in college sports.
• Kelsey also shares her own experience with poor coaching behaviors, and they discuss how to move forward.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Scott Lynch

02:09 Journey from Wrestling to Medicine

06:21 Becoming Director of Athletic Medicine

12:40 Challenges and Pressures in Medical Decisions

25:04 Proposed Solutions for Athlete Safety

34:23 The Future of College Sports and Player Rights

35:37 Viewing Athletes as People: A Cultural Shift

38:54 Navigating Injury and Pressure in Youth Sports

44:06 The Decision to Pursue Legal Action

54:34 The Importance of Speaking Up

Call to Action: If you are an athlete witnessing or experiencing some of these issues, talk to someone you trust and don’t be afraid to speak up.

Special Links:
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Credits

• Life Beyond Labels is produced by QuietLoud Studios and featured on SportsE Media
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