Medical personnel prepare for game day emergencies ahead of college football season

NORMAN, Okla. (KFOR) — With the 2025 college football season fast approaching, training isn't just for the players—medical personnel are also preparing for emergency game day scenarios.

Norman Regional EMSSTAT collaborated with OU Athletics, OU Athletic Trainers, Ortho Central, and McBride Orthopedic Hospital on Monday, July 28, at the Gaylord Family — Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, for high-intensity emergency preparedness training.

The training revolved around two realistic emergency scenarios, such as a cardiac arrest and a spinal injury involving a responsive player who is unable to move.

To add to the realism, the training included a person dressed in full gear, helmet, and shoulder pads.

“This training is rooted in lessons learned from incidents like the cardiac arrest suffered by Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills. These situations show us we must be ready," said Michael Combs, Operations Supervisor for EMSSTAT. "Every year, we find new gaps to close. Training like this helps us improve our response and ensure everyone knows their role."

Both scenarios were practiced twice, once in the locker room and again on the field, simulating game day conditions.

Medical personnel aren't just there for the players, but also for the fans in attendance, with more than 85,000 fans expected to fill the stadium on game days.

“We provide medical coverage everywhere in the stadium, from suites and upper decks to the sidelines and the field," said Combs. "Our team includes bike medics, nurses, physicians, and transport support. We’re here to make sure anyone in need, player or fan, gets timely, expert care.”

To learn about the Norman Regional Gomer Jones First Aid Center at the Gaylord Family — Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, click here.