Bradley Jacobson, chair of the Mercyhurst College Sportsmedicine Department, entered his 28th year of teaching in September.

Jacobson was hired to develop the sportsmedicine program and curriculum. He considers the department to be the biggest accomplishment of his career.

This September, it was announced that the department had nearly doubled its enrollment within the past five years.

“It’s been a privilege to watch the department grow from infancy,” Jacobson said.

The sportsmedicine department now teaches more than 150 students in the majors of sportsmedicine and athletic training. The program offers many opportunities for these students.

Athletic training students have the opportunity to perform their clinical rotations required for their degree at the college in conjunction with the athletic teams. Several students are also able to work off-campus at local high schools and medical settings such as Hamot and LECOM.

“If a student is interested in some level of medical expertise and knowledge, especially in the physically active and sports community, this is a great educational opportunity,” Jacobson said.

Jacobson teaches several courses such as assessment and injury management. Students learn proper medical expertise that can contribute to the health and longevity of athletes.

“With the popularity of physical activity and sports participation, it’s important that injuries are recognized and managed properly,” Jacobson said.

In class, Jacobson tells many stories in order to connect textbook information to real-life situations. He does not rely on lecture, though, and asks for significant participation from the class.

He asks questions to keep students involved in their education, and he uses hands-on activities both to maintain interest and to emphasize mastering skills proficiently.

Although Jacobson used to participate in many organized sports, he now restricts himself to watching college football, pickup basketball and recreational weightlifting. He also considers himself an avid outdoorsman.

He spends much of his free time hunting, fishing and camping with his family.