As part of today's #NHS70 celebration marking 70 years of the NHS, we caught up with Tigers senior first team physiotherapist, Dave Orton who has worked in the Tigers medical room since 2010.
Dave graduated with his BSc Physiotherapy Degree from the University of Hertfordshire in 2004 and spent three years within the NHS before joining Watford Football Club working with the academy and first team. In 2010, he joined Tigers medical staff and has since completed his MSc in Sports Injuries as well as consulted for Red Bull Formula One and other National competitors in athletics and martial arts.
From training and recovery, to emergency support and procedures, Tigers medical team work closely with the NHS throughout each season as Dave explained.
In recent years, how have Tigers and the NHS worked together?
"We have great relationships with the local NHS service in Leicester and Leicestershire. They have been excellent in helping expedite emergency cases through from training and matchdays ensuring minimal delays and fantastic service.
"The emergency care and facilities for a professional sports organisation are exemplary an Always handled with speed and quality of service around emergency cases."
On matchdays, what preparations do the Tigers team have with the medical teams at Welford Road?
"We have an consultant who attends every home game to help manage any emergency cases for Tigers and the away team. This helps aid the transition through the hospital if required. We will have a pre-match meeting to make sure emergency procedures are clear and defined and everyone knows their roles.
And as well as the players on the pitch, there is also the safety of fans?
"That's right. We also have the crowd to think about. Paramedics cover matchday crowds and with more than 25,000 fans in Welford Road, this can be a challenge too with a variety of ages and medical histories."
There is no better service for emergency care and we are thankful for their support of Leicester Tigers each season."
Keep an eye out across the Leicester Tigers website and social media channels to hear more #NHS70 stories.
