Congratulations to Dr. Sujan Gogu, DO on his appointment to the Board of Certification as the Physician Director to the BOC.

Dr. Sujan Gogu, triple board-certified in family, sports, and pain medicine, dedicates himself to the Rio Grande Valley community. As core faculty at the DHR Family Medicine program and faculty at three medical schools, he mentors residents and students while advocating for health care reform through the Texas Medical Board and Texas Medical Association. Dr. Gogu also champions improved health outcomes through Healthcare for Action via political means.

Beyond his medical commitments, Dr. Gogu is a respected commentator, speaker and writer, contributing his insights across various platforms. He also serves as a physician for USA Badminton and USA Boxing, expanding his sports medicine network through Team USA while advancing his career at DHR Health. In addition, Dr. Gogu plays a role as the team physician for the NBA G-League’s Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

“As a Physician Director on the BOC board, I bring a multifaceted perspective from my extensive experience in family medicine, sports medicine and pain medicine,” said Dr. Gogu. “My work as a physician for Olympic sports and professional athletes, such as those in the NBA G League, has provided me with unique insights into the complexities of athlete care. I’ve also been deeply involved in mentoring and educating health care professionals, which aligns well with the BOC’s mission of maintaining high standards for Athletic Trainers. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of working with Athletic Trainers in underserved communities, where I’ve seen firsthand the importance of accessible and high-quality care. This experience allows me to advocate for greater collaboration between physicians and Athletic Trainers, ensuring that athletes—no matter where they are—receive the best care possible. My commitment to excellence and ethics will help uphold the rigorous standards that the BOC has established. My vision for the BOC is to continue leading the charge in credentialing excellence, ensuring that athletic trainers are not only well-qualified but also adaptive to the evolving demands of sports and healthcare. I see the BOC setting the global benchmark for certification, expanding its influence by incorporating the latest scientific advancements and best practices in sports medicine.”

We have a date! The SPATS Committee has set the dates for the South Padre Athletic Training Seminar for the next three years!  Still being held on the beautiful island of South Padre at the SPI Convention Center! We hope to see you next year, or it will be your first time attending, Welcome!

The 21st annual Student Trainer Workshop was held with over 130 student participants! A new record for the Student Affairs Committee. Over 14 schools were in attendance and competed in the Quiz Bowl, VATA Cup Olympics, and taping contest! Congrats to Port Isabel HS, and Lyford HS who qualified for the TSATA Championship Competition in Stephensville, Texas.  A big thank you to our sponsors that made this all possible, DHR Health, Frio Hydration, Medco Supply, Alert Services, Henry Schein, HEB, I M 3 Services, Knapp Medical Center, CPR Uptown, BuckSkin Barbie, Montalvo Insurance Agency, Margiee- Medina Realty, Alamo Film Factory and South Texas Urgent Care Center!

VATA was proud to volunteer for the 18th year at the 42nd Annual All-America City David Chavana 10K Run/Walk. Volunteers helped man the water station for over 1,792 runners this year! This is one of the events that VATA is able to give back to the communities of the Rio Grande Valley, as this large event hosted many participants from through out the Valley, the state of Texas, and even Mexico.We would like to thank the professional members and the student members from Edinburg High School, Edinburg Vela High School, and La Joya Juarez-Lincoln High School. Great Job to our student members who earned community service hours, as well as merit points that can be applied to their VATA High School scholarship applications. If you would like more information on how to volunteer for next years 10K, please contact Israel Montano III at president@vatargv.org. 

Now accepting applications for the VATA Safe Sports School Grant! Visit www.vatargv.org/sss_grant for more information about the requirements and how to apply! This grant is open to all professional members employed by a RGV high school or middle school! Grants will be awarded until funding runs out!