Columbus, Ind. — IU Columbus Athletics is proud to announce a new partnership with Indiana University Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Bloomington as the official health care and athletic training services provider, bringing enhanced sports medicine services and world-class medical expertise to its growing athletics program.

As part of this collaboration, current Athletic Trainer Tim Lappin will serve as an on-site resource from IU Health. This strengthens the connection between IU Columbus student-athletes and IU Bloomington. In addition, athletes will have direct access to IU Health physicians in the recently opened Nashville medical building, and in Bloomington, including specialists in orthopedics and sports medicine. This level of professional support provides immediate, high-quality care to athletes throughout their training and competitive seasons.

"This partnership is incredibly beneficial to our athletes," said Zach McClellan, IU Columbus Director of Athletics. "We are very fortunate to have this relationship with IU Health. As an IU alum, getting to work with IU Athletics feels special, and our experience with IU Health has been outstanding. Their support allows us to provide our athletes with the best care possible."

IU Columbus' athletics program, a startup regional IU initiative, continues to expand and strengthen its presence in the Columbus community.

Matthew D. Weirath, DO, with IU Health, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: "I am excited to be working with the IU Columbus Athletics program and athletes. Supporting athletes' health, safety, and performance is a privilege, and I look forward to helping contribute to a culture of wellness, resilience, and high performance."

The partnership underscores IU Columbus Athletics' commitment to providing a holistic, student-centered experience—ensuring athletes receive exceptional medical support as they pursue excellence both academically and competitively.

About IU Columbus Athletics
IU Columbus Athletics is an emerging intercollegiate program committed to developing student-athletes of character, academic achievement, and competitive success. Located in Columbus, Indiana, the program continues to build strong community and institutional partnerships that support its mission.

About IU Health
Indiana University Health is dedicated to offering highly-skilled, patient-centered care. Named among U.S. News & World Report's 2025-2026 Best Hospitals as a High Performing hospital in four specialties, IU Health Medical Center is the only academic medical center in the state. The distinctive partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine – one of the nation's leading medical schools – equips our highly-skilled physicians with access to innovative treatments using the latest research and technology.