Rancho helps college football team prepare for season

DOWNEY – Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center staff were recently able to assist the young men of Compton College’s football team prepare for their upcoming 2022-23 season. 

With healthcare in such high demand, the team’s usual medical office was unable to provide the physicals that are required for approval to play.  

The team, challenged with completing their physicals before the start of the season or not playing at all, was in a difficult position and time was running out. That is when Coach Al Dorsey had the idea to reach out to his wife’s friends at Rancho.

After a few phone calls, arrangements were made within a week to have the team come to Rancho. A handful of Rancho’s nurses and physicians jumped at the chance to donate their time after hours to provide physicals for more than 20 of the team’s players. 

“We should always look to give back to the community whenever we can,” said Dr. Dennis Wong, who spearheaded the project. “These young men rely on the scholarships football provides them for their education so of course we wanted to help. This was also a chance to show these young men different opportunities available to them in the healthcare fields.”

After the team were shown around campus and given their physicals, they were treated to dinner provided by the medical staff and the Rancho Foundation. 

“Many on our team often face food insecurity and playing football is their path through college and to a more stable life,” Coach Dorsey said. “These boys are often from underserved communities and need these opportunities to get the education they deserve. We’re indebted to Rancho for taking us in so last minute, feeding the team, and for making us feel so welcomed.”

Now with the proper paperwork in place, the Compton College football team is ready to take on the upcoming season armed with the knowledge that Rancho has their back. Visit www.comptontartars.com/sports/fball/2022-23/schedule to check out the Compton College football team in action.

For more information about the programs and services funded by the Rancho Los Amigos Foundation or to make a donation, visit at www.RanchoFoundation.org.