HARROGATE, Tenn. – Lincoln Memorial University Athletics has recently launched the Railsplitter Injured Athletes Group, a new initiative designed to provide student-athletes with a supportive environment to connect, share experiences, and navigate the physical and emotional challenges that can accompany an extended athletic injury.
The group has already gotten off to a strong start, with participation growing as more LMU student-athletes learn about the opportunity to connect with others who understand what it is like to be injured and temporarily separated from competition.
Meetings are held twice each month and provide an informal, confidential and judgment-free environment where student-athletes can talk openly, listen to others and support one another throughout the rehabilitation process.
Early meetings have focused on topics including the emotional challenges of injury, maintaining motivation during rehabilitation, staying connected with teammates, changes in confidence and identity, managing setbacks, and the importance of asking for support. Student-athletes have also shared personal stories and experiences from their own injury journeys, creating meaningful conversations and connections among participants.
"In the 16 years that I've been involved with student-athletes here at LMU, this is one of the most rewarding things I've ever been a part of," said Don Grigsby, LMU Associate Athletic Director for Sports Performance & Wellness. "The vulnerability that our student-athletes have shown has been amazing. To hear them share their stories, support one another and realize that they are not alone on their journey has been incredibly rewarding. Sometimes, simply knowing that someone else understands what you're going through can make a tremendous difference."
The Impact of Injury
For college student-athletes, an injury can involve much more than the physical rehabilitation process. Being unable to practice or compete can affect an athlete's routine, confidence, motivation, relationships with teammates, sense of identity and overall emotional well-being
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The Injured Athletes Group provides an additional layer of support by giving student-athletes an opportunity to connect with peers experiencing similar challenges. Rather than navigating those challenges alone, athletes can learn from one another and develop a sense of community throughout their recovery.
The group also reinforces an important message within LMU Athletics: an injured student-athlete remains an important part of the team and the Railsplitter family.
"Sometimes athletes feel like they've lost their place when they can't compete," Grigsby said. "We want them to understand that their value to their team and to LMU goes far beyond whether they are currently able to play. They are still teammates, they are still valued, and they are not alone."
Moving forward, the Railsplitter Injured Athletes Group will continue meeting twice monthly, with the goal of expanding participation and creating an ongoing support network for LMU student-athletes experiencing injury. Future discussions will continue to address the challenges of rehabilitation, mental wellness, returning to sport, maintaining team connection and developing healthy strategies for navigating adversity.
The initiative is part of LMU Athletics' broader commitment to supporting the whole student-athlete—physically, mentally and emotionally.
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