MSU athletic team physician, Dr. Robert Collins, has been announced as the 2003 Southeastern Conference Physician of the Year.
Collins, who has worked as a physician at MSU for the past 26 years and is currently the Director if the Longest Student Health Center, said he was humbled after receiving the award.
“I have been a team physician for a long time and it really surprised me,” said Collins. “I was honored that the trainers would recognize me that way.”
The award is given annually to the SEC physician that demonstrates the qualities necessary to be a successful and first-rate athletic physician.
“I think Dr. Collins is well deserving of this award,” said junior soccer player Betty Ann Casey, who receives regular treatment from Collins.
“He does a good job of making sure we get the best treatment and are able to get back on the field as soon as possible,” Casey said. “As athletes we want to play no matter what the situation, but Dr. Collins makes sure we are completely healthy before he lets us back on the field.”
By winning the SEC’s 2nd annual award, MSU will be rewarded with $1,000 towards the Student Athletic Training Program.
Collins said that winning this award says a lot–not only for him, but for the entire MSU medical staff.
“I think that it reflects what I have known forever,” said Collins.
“We have the best health care on a college campus in the United States. Our students get as good of medical care as can be found in any place in the United States.”
Collins will receive a formal award presentation at an upcoming MSU men’s basketball game.