October 15, 2025

In a bold and inspiring move to support the health and safety of young athletes, former Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker and current head coach Josh Heupel have announced a new partnership with a network of local healthcare providers to launch free medical screenings and sports injury prevention clinics across the state of Tennessee.

 

The initiative, called “Play Safe Tennessee”, aims to reach thousands of student-athletes between the ages of 10 and 18, particularly those in underserved and rural communities. Through the program, participants will receive comprehensive health evaluations, including cardiovascular screening, orthopedic assessments, concussion baseline testing, and guidance on injury prevention and recovery.

 

“As someone who’s battled injuries and come through the other side, I know how important early detection and proper care can be,” said Hendon Hooker, currently a quarterback with the Detroit Lions. “This is about protecting the future of sports in Tennessee — one kid at a time.”

 

Coach Josh Heupel, who led the Vols to one of their most successful seasons in recent memory, emphasized the role of education in the initiative.

 

“Athletes today are stronger and faster, but they’re also at higher risk for injury. We’re not just screening — we’re teaching. Teaching coaches, parents, and kids how to recognize risks early and build habits that keep them safe on and off the field,” Heupel said at a press conference held Friday morning at Neyland Stadium.

 

Healthcare Partners Involved

 

The program is supported by a coalition of healthcare organizations, including:

 

UT Medical Center

 

East Tennessee Children’s Hospital

 

Vanderbilt Sports Medicine

 

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation

 

Dr. Karen Riley, a pediatric orthopedic specialist at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, said the clinics will provide “life-saving insights” for families who may not otherwise have access to specialized sports medicine care.

 

When and Where

 

The first round of clinics will begin in October 2025, with events scheduled in:

 

Knoxville

 

Chattanooga

 

Nashville

 

Memphis

 

Tri-Cities region

 

More locations and dates will be announced in the coming weeks.

 

A Personal Mission

 

For Hooker, the mission is deeply personal. After suffering a torn ACL in his final college season, he worked closely with sports medicine professionals to make a full recovery and enter the NFL. His experience, he says, “opened his eyes” to the inequities in access to quality care for young athletes, particularly in lower-income areas.

 

Coach Heupel echoed that sentiment, highlighting the role community support played in his own athletic development.

 

“Every kid deserves a shot to chase their dream — safely. This is our way of giving back.”

 

How to Participate

 

Parents and coaches interested in registering athletes for the free clinics can visit PlaySafeTN.org starting next week. Spots are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

 

 

 

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