Since 2010, Sports Medicine physicians from Proliance Orthopedic Associates have been the team doctors for the Seattle Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League. Recently, four Thunderbird players were selected in the 2015 NHL Draft.
Center Mathew Barzal was taken in the first round by the New York Islanders, while Ryan Gropp, Keegan Kolesar, and Ethan Bear were chosen by the New York Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Edmonton Oilers in the second round, respectively.
Last October, you may have read our blog about Dr. Erik Novak providing in-game medical assistance, as well as advising injured athletes about physical therapy. T-Birds Athletic Trainer Phil Varney had this to say about the top orthopedic care Seattle receives:
“POA has been invaluable to the health and welfare of our athletes. They have specialists in every area of care. The expertise of their physicians paired with their ability to diagnostically evaluate injuries quickly and accurately gives our players a real advantage when it comes to staying on the ice. Whether I have an ankle injury to a dislocated shoulder I know our players are getting the best care possible. I would recommend them to anyone.”
Congratulations to Mathew Barzal, Ryan Gropp, Keegan Kolesar, and Ethan Bear for being drafted into the NHL. Province Orthopedic Associates’ Sports Medicine specialists are proud to offer their skills and experience to help amateur and professional athletes recover from injury and achieve success in their favorite activities.
Go Thunderbirds!