ST. LOUIS – The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) Athletics Department is proud to announce Mercy as the Official Sports Medicine Provider for UMSL Athletics. This collaboration will enhance the care, safety and performance support available to Triton student-athletes.

Under the agreement, Mercy will provide comprehensive physician services through a dedicated primary care sports medicine physician. Dr. Hunter Fleming will serve as Head Team Physician and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Vince Lai who will serve as Head Team Orthopedic for UMSL Athletics. Together they will oversee medical services, provide injury evaluation and management, and lead the development of emergency action and clinical care protocols for UMSL Athletics.

UMSL Executive Director of Athletics Dr. Holly Sheilley said, "We're thrilled to welcome Mercy as a partner in caring for our student-athletes. Mercy's exceptional reputation and deep commitment to sports medicine in the St. Louis region align perfectly with our mission to provide the highest level of support to our athletes, both on and off the field, court, and pool."

Mercy's Legacy in Sports Medicine
Mercy has long been a leader in sports medicine and orthopedic care across St. Louis and the Midwest. With board-certified physicians, athletic trainers, and rehabilitation specialists, Mercy provides integrated care that covers injury prevention, treatment, recovery, and performance optimization. Mercy also serves as the Official Medical Provider for the St. Louis Cardinals and supports athletes from youth through professional levels, demonstrating its unmatched expertise and regional presence.

Key Highlights

• Mercy physicians will provide on-site clinic hours weekly for UMSL student-athletes.
• Mercy will coordinate physician coverage for athletic events requiring medical support.
• UMSL athletic trainers will collaborate directly under the supervision and clinical guidance of the Head Team Physician.

We look forward to working with UMSL student-athletes, coaches and training staff to ensure they are healthy and ready to face each competition at the highest level," said Dr. Hunter Fleming, a Mercy primary care sports medicine physician and UMSL head team physician. "When injuries occur, our team will be there to help coordinate a seamless transition from treatment to rehabilitation and returning to play."

About Mercy Sports Medicine
Mercy Sports Medicine is part of Mercy, an integrated health care system offering comprehensive sports medicine, orthopedic, and rehabilitation services throughout the St. Louis area. With cutting-edge facilities and a patient-first approach, Mercy supports athletes from youth to elite levels through prevention, performance, and recovery programs.

About UMSL Athletics
UMSL Athletics fields 15 NCAA Division II programs and is committed to developing student-athletes who excel academically, athletically, and personally. The partnership with Mercy strengthens UMSL's ability to provide exceptional health and wellness support for its student-athletes.