CLAREMONT, Calif. – Pomona-Pitzer Athletics has announced the hiring of Joe Gonzalez as its new Director of Sports Medicine, where he will oversee the department's athletic training operations across Pomona-Pitzer's 21 varsity sports.

"We conducted a national search for this critical role, and Joe distinguished himself at every step," said Director of Athletics Dr. Danielle Lynch. "His experience leading sports medicine operations, mentoring the next generation of athletic trainers, and building campus-wide partnerships aligns perfectly with our vision for a comprehensive, student-centered approach to health and performance. We are thrilled to welcome him to Claremont."

In his new role, Gonzalez will direct all aspects of the Sports Medicine program, including supervision of the athletic training staff, management of the athletic training facilities, coordination of medical services, and continued development of comprehensive health and wellness initiatives for Pomona-Pitzer's student-athletes.

Gonzalez arrives in Claremont after serving as the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine at Occidental College since 2013. In addition to overseeing all varsity sports medicine operations, Gonzalez played an active role across campus through the Student Success Team and Emergency Preparedness Committee. He also serves the profession as a District 8 Peer Support Provider through the National Athletic Trainers' Association ATs Care program.

Prior to Occidental, Gonzalez spent 11 years as an assistant athletic trainer at Loyola Marymount University, where he worked with men's soccer, women's basketball, baseball, and men's and women's water polo. During his time at LMU, he also served as an Approved Clinical Instructor, mentoring athletic training students through their clinical rotations and helping prepare the next generation of athletic trainers.

His professional experience also includes volunteering as an athletic trainer during the 2002 Winter Olympics, where he provided medical coverage for long-track speed skating. Earlier in his career, Gonzalez worked in the physical therapy department at The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital in Murray, Utah, while also serving as an athletic trainer for Kearns High School.

"I would like to express my deepest thanks and sincerest gratitude to Director of Athletics Danielle Lynch, Dean Carbajal, President Starr, Senior Associate Dean Mayes, the search committee, and everyone involved with my interviewing process," said Gonzalez. "I am excited to get to work and contribute to the excellence of Pomona-Pitzer Athletics."

Gonzalez earned his bachelor's degree in biology and his master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from Loyola Marymount University. He is a Certified Athletic Trainer through the National Athletic Trainers' Association and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He also holds certifications in the Graston Technique and Functional Movement Systems.