CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi athletic department announced an important partnership with CHRISTUS Health, solidifying an official sponsorship as well as designating Drs. George and Ioannis N. Liras, sports medicine specialists with CHRISTUS Health, as the official team physicians of Islanders Athletics.
The agreement is two-fold, to recognize Dr. George and Dr. Ioannis Liras as official team doctors to serve the needs of the student-athletes, and to additionally designate CHRISTUS Health as a critical and official sponsor of Islanders Athletics. Both parties formally held a press conference Tuesday morning on the campus of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in a "signing day" event to cement the partnership.
"The impact of sports medicine on an NCAA Division-I athletic department cannot be overstated," said Adrian Rodriguez, vice president of student engagement and success & intercollegiate athletics. "By having dedicated physicians and athletic trainers who specialize in the unique demands of athletic performance, we enhance our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries effectively. It allows our student-athletes to perform at peak performance levels, and to ensure that our student-athletes stay healthy and competitive throughout their seasons – incredibly vital to us, as here in Islanders Athletics, we've come to expect great success both on and off the playing surface."
The relationship began in 2016 with Dr. George Liras, who was still in his residency at the time. Between the two physicians, they have attended hundreds of games as well as conference and NCAA Tournaments, providing care for over 250 student-athletes to ensure their health and well-being be translated into their performance which has seen numerous championships over the years.
"The timing of this partnership could not be more perfect," said Dr. George Liras. "We've been privileged to be on the sidelines, watching these young, talented athletes compete, win championships and write history for the university. It's been an incredible journey."
"Our goal, as always, will be to keep these athletes' health in top condition and ready to compete at their highest potential," said Dr. Ioannis Liras. "But beyond that, we also want to ensure their well-being off the court or field, helping them reach new heights in every aspect of life."
This partnership ensures Islanders Athletics will receive exceptional medical care with the health and well-being of the student-athlete as the top priority.
"I am proud CHRISTUS Health and Drs. George and Ioannis Liras are now officially partnering," said Dominic Dominiguez, chief executive officer for CHRISTUS Spohn Health System. "I know these student-athletes are in great hands, and I look forward to seeing where this partnership takes us in the future."