VALDOSTA, Ga. - Valdosta State Head Athletic Trainer Jay Johnson announced the addition of Chandler Stephens to the Blazers' Sports Medicine staff. Stephens joins Dataysha Thomas as the second addition to the sports medicine staff for the 2026-27 academic year. She will primarily serve as the athletic trainer for Blazer baseball.

"We are excited that Chandler chose Valdosta State again," said Johnson. "She took some undergraduate courses through VSU and that experience led her to return now as a professional. She has outstanding experience in collegiate athletics, along with valuable clinical experience in a physician's office, both of which will strengthen our sports medicine program." 

Stephens comes to Titletown with nearly a decade of experience in collegiate athletics and sports medicine, having worked with student-athletes at the NCAA Division I level and in a clinical setting. Most recently, she served as the Clinical Lead Athletic Trainer at Northside Hospital Orthopedics.

"I'm incredibly excited to join the Valdosta State athletic training staff and become part of the Blazer family," Stephens said. "I'm looking forward to building relationships with our student-athletes and coaches, supporting our baseball program throughout the season, and helping our student-athletes stay healthy and perform at their best. It's a privilege to join a department with such a strong tradition of excellence, and I'm excited to do my part in supporting our student-athletes and contributing to the continued success of Blazer Athletics."

Prior to her time at Northside Hospital, Stephens spent the 2022-23 academic year as an Associate Athletic Trainer at Middle Tennessee State University, serving as the primary athletic trainer for the women's basketball program. Her experience also includes stops at the University of Missouri and Arkansas State University, where she earned a Master of Science in Sport Administration in 2019.

In addition to her master's degree, Stephens holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Athletic Training and Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Georgia.

"We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Hughston Clinic" Johnson concluded. "Through their partnership, we are able to staff two additional athletic trainers that otherwise wouldn't be possible. We have enjoyed a great relationship with this renowned medical group for many years and greatly appreciate the exceptional care they provide our student-athletes." 

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