Speak with an admissions advisor. 562-475-4604
Speak with an admissions advisor. 602-887-5780
Speak with an admissions advisor. 562-580-0525
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) is proud to spotlight the accomplishments of George Zakhary, a dedicated Chiropractic student with a passion for sports medicine. George has been honored as the recipient of the 2024 Professional Baseball Chiropractic Society (PBCS) Scholarship, a testament to his passion and dedication to the field. He received the recognition at the annual PBCS meeting held in November 2024 in Naples, Florida, alongside some of the top professionals in sports chiropractic care.
This recognition is a significant milestone for George and SCU, highlighting our university’s commitment to producing future healthcare professionals. George’s achievement underscores SCU’s emphasis on fostering excellence and innovation in chiropractic education, particularly in sports medicine.
George’s journey toward this honor is rooted in his dedication to helping athletes optimize their performance and recover from injuries. In his clinical year at SCU, George is completing his Doctor of Chiropractic degree with a focus on Sports Medicine. His drive to specialize in this field stems from a desire to empower athletes through non-pharmacological pain therapies and cutting-edge rehabilitative techniques.
“My passion for sports and helping athletes perform at their best has always been a driving force. I took a leap of faith when I moved from Florida to Southern California to attend SCU, specifically because of its focus on sports medicine. Despite other schools being closer to home, I knew SCU was the best place to pursue my dream, and I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunities I’ve had here,” said George.
George has gained extensive hands-on experience working with diverse patient populations throughout his academic and clinical career. At the SCU Tactical Sports Medicine Clinic and Performance Place Sports Care, George honed his skills in rehabilitative exercises, patient education, and collaborative care. His work on the sidelines with Miami FC in the USL Championship League offered invaluable insights into treating professional athletes and fostering peak performance.
“My rotations at clinics like the Navy Sports Medicine Clinic at Camp Pendleton and treating athletes with the Miami FC have been instrumental in shaping my patient-centered approach in the athletic sphere. I’ve learned the importance of addressing both the physical and mental aspects of recovery and tailoring care to each individual’s needs,” explained George.
Currently serving as a chiropractic intern at the Area 13 Navy Sports Medicine Clinic in Camp Pendleton, George provides care to active-duty Marines, further solidifying his expertise in injury management and performance optimization. His ability to adapt his skills to serve diverse populations, from professional soccer players to military personnel, showcases his commitment to advancing chiropractic care.
Beyond clinical practice, George has presented his research at prominent conferences, including the American Public Health Association and ACC-RAC, contributing valuable insights into non-pharmacological approaches to pain management. Pursuing a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification exemplifies his dedication to continuous learning and professional development.
George’s aspirations reflect a deep commitment to the future of sports medicine. He envisions a career at the intersection of chiropractic care and professional athletics, where he can impact athletes’ health and performance at all levels. This scholarship and the accompanying recognition provide George with unparalleled networking opportunities and access to leaders in sports chiropractic care.
“This scholarship provides me with a feeling of recognition, which motivates me to continue excelling in my studies and clinical work. It also connects me to a network of professionals who share my passion for sports chiropractic and have empowered me beyond words, opening doors to new opportunities,” said George.
“My ultimate goal is to work with a professional team and eventually open my own clinic in Florida or California. I aim to provide exceptional care that helps not only athletes but all people to reach peak performance and enjoy long, healthy careers. “
Congratulations, George. Your dedication and accomplishments inspire us all, and we can’t wait to see the incredible impact you’ll continue to make in sports medicine.
Learn more about the Doctor of Chiropractic program and Sports Medicine Emphasis for Chiropractic at SCU.