Clarksville, Ark. – Ryan McFarland has been named the Assistant Athletic Trainer at University of the Ozarks, the university announced on Thursday, May 21.
McFarland, a native of Farmersville, Texas, worked as a student athletic trainer at Sterling College in Kansas while pursuing his master's degree in athletic training. At Sterling, McFarland worked with numerous sports, but was most recently assigned to volleyball where he focused on shoulder rehab and posture training. In his other duties, he utilized therapeutic modalities, including ultrasound, e-stem, laser and iontophoresis. Additionally, McFarland applied manual therapy techniques and assisted in designing and implementing rehabilitation programs for Sterling's student-athletes.
"We are excited to have Ryan at Ozarks," said
Dr. Sergio Molina, Director of Athletics. "Athletic training has come to the forefront of importance within an athletic department. The position plays an integral role in providing applicable resources and healthcare to our student-athletes. And I believe Ryan will thrive in this role. He was given major responsibilities at Sterling and excelled. We can't wait to see how he continues to elevate the care and performance of our student-athletes."
McFarland's additional experience includes covering football, volleyball and basketball at Sterling High School. There, he conducted evaluations and treatments and collaborated with coaches and healthcare providers to support return-to-play decisions. McFarland served as an intern at Advanced Physical Therapy in McPherson where he observed patient evaluations and rehabilitation progress under licensed Physical Therapists. He also observed clinic operations, including injury recovery planning.
"I am incredibly grateful and excited for the opportunity to join the athletic training staff at University of the Ozarks," said McFarland. "I want to thank President Dunsworth and Dr. Molina for believing in me and entrusting me with this opportunity. I look forward to serving the student-athletes, building meaningful relationships, and contributing to a culture of excellence both on and off the field. As I begin this next chapter, I am reminded of 1 Corinthians 16:13–14: 'Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.' I'm excited to get to work and become a part of the Ozarks family."
McFarland earned his bachelor's degree in exercise science from Central Christian College in 2024 and his master's degree from Sterling in 2026. He is a member of the National Athletic Trainers' Association. A former collegiate student-athlete, McFarland played his final two seasons of baseball at Central Christian where he pitched in 2023 and 2024. McFarland will begin his duties July 15.
