Jessica Nelson, DO, a 2025 graduate of Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCU-COM), has always worn her heart on her sleeve—especially when it comes to her love for the Minnesota Vikings. Standing on the sidelines of a Vikings game, with adrenaline coursing through her veins as the roar of the crowd surrounded her, was more than just a dream come true for this lifelong Vikings fan; it’s a powerful testament to her dedication and ambition.
In August 2024, Nelson embarked on a remarkable journey, joining the Vikings’ medical staff for a month-long rotation as part of the NFL’s Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative. Her time with the team wasn’t just about personal growth, it also highlighted the importance of diversity in the field of sports medicine.
STEP ONE: START WITH A SOLID FOUNDATION
Growing up in Plymouth, Minnesota, Nelson immersed herself in sports, spending countless hours on the hockey rink and golf course. These early experiences taught her the value of teamwork and gave her a real sense of the challenges athletes face. At the time, she didn’t know it, but those moments were laying the groundwork for her. “Playing sports introduced a passion for teamwork and the unique challenges athletes encounter,” Nelson reflects. “Their dedication to recovery is inspiring. I want to be that person who helps athletes at all levels get back to doing what they love.”
Her path to KCU was fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact. After earning her degree from Gustavus Adolphus College, she worked at Twin Cities Orthopedics, where she first discovered a passion for sports medicine. The hands-on experience with athletes and the medical team blended her love of sports and commitment to helping others. She was drawn to KCU because of its emphasis on collaboration and interdisciplinary health care, values that aligned perfectly with her vision.
“KCU’s focus on interdisciplinary collab-oration mirrors the teamwork required in sports medicine,” Nelson explains. “I learned the importance of different medical professionals working together to achieve the best outcomes for patients.”
STEP TWO: DIVERSIFY TO IMPROVE OUTCOMES
Nelson’s selection for the Vikings rotation was part of a broader initiative aimed at diversifying the field of sports medicine. Launched in 2022, the NFL’s Diversity in Sports Medicine Pipeline Initiative invites medical students from various backgrounds to gain hands-on experience with top-tier NFL medical professionals. This program is crucial not only for fostering diversity, but also for enhancing the quality of care provided to athletes.
“Having more women in this field will create a more diverse and representative environment, which benefits all athletes,” Nelson said. “It’s about bringing different perspectives and experiences to the table, ultimately enhancing the quality of care we can provide.”
STEP THREE: SERVE FROM THE SIDELINES
Nelson’s experience with the Vikings was a game-changer. During her first preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, she was surprised by the extensive preparation involved. “The medical staff arrived about five hours early to assess players’ needs before the game,” she said. “We conducted meetings with the opposing team’s doctors to ensure everyone was aligned on procedures and emergency supplies.”
Walking alongside players in the tunnel before games and witnessing the intense, real-time decision-making that goes into sports medicine was surreal. “It’s important to have medical personnel there, especially in emergent situations,” she said, recalling a moment when she had to suture a player’s patellar skin laceration after a practice injury. This hands-on experience expanded her understanding of the critical role medical professionals play in sports.
Nelson pinpoints her communication skills as one of her greatest assets. “Being able to motivate patients and empower them in their treatment plans is crucial,” she said. She recalls helping a player understand that his symptoms were likely caused by allergies, not an infection requiring antibiotics. “It’s important to guide them through their concerns, especially in a competitive environment where players may feel vulnerable.”
STEP FOUR: RUN IT BY YOUR MENTOR
David Olson, MD, a team physician for the Vikings, played a key role in Nelson’s journey, mentoring her since her early days at Twin Cities Orthopedic. Their relationship grew when she first shadowed him, watching him provide compassionate care and witnessing the teamwork involved in sports medicine. “Olson took me under his wing,” Nelson said. “He taught me not just about medicine, but also about the importance of building relationships with patients and colleagues.” Their paths reunited during her NFL rotation, allowing her to learn from him in a new, dynamic environment.
“Jessica fully embraced her opportunity, demonstrating teamwork and curiosity,” Olson said. “Her development over the month was noticeable.” His guidance helped her navigate the complexities of working with a professional sports medicine team, emphasizing the importance of communication and collaboration.
STEP FIVE: GET READY FOR THE GAME!
As Nelson looks ahead, she aspires to become a team physician for a professional sports organization. “I know that turnover in these roles is low, which makes every connection and experience incredibly valuable,” she reflects. “Building relationships within the field is essential for creating opportunities and making a lasting impact.”
With a heart full of gratitude for her mentors and a clear vision for her future, Nelson is not just playing the game—she’s changing it.
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