A UC Davis physician, having worked with athletes ranging from collegiate students to Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles, emphasized the holistic approach she takes when it comes to her athletes.
“You’re not just an athlete; you’re the entire person,” Dr. Marcia Faustin, family and sports medicine physician and assistant clinical professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at UC Davis Health, told Chancellor Gary S. May in this month’s episode of Face to Face. “And we know your support system and how your mental health is doing will affect how you do — not just right now, but what your future looks like.”
In the episode, Faustin shares her unique experiences working with elite athletes, including her role as a team physician for USA Gymnastics and her involvement in the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Olympics.
The conversation also dives into the impact of mentorship in shaping an athlete's journey. As Faustin explained, mentorship often goes beyond simply advising on the right moves to make.
May agreed.
“Sometimes the best mentoring is telling you what not to do, as opposed to helping you move forward,” he said.
Faustin is also the co-head team physician for UC Davis Division I athletics, team physician for the Sacramento Republic FC, and co-head team physician for the USA Gymnastics women’s national team.
Tune in to hear about Faustin's passion for athlete care, her advocacy for mental health and her commitment to mentorship, ensuring their success both on and off the field.
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Anila Lijo is a writer and editor for the Office of Strategic Communications, and can be reached by email.