UNCW Athletics, Novant Health and EmergeOrtho announce historic healthcare partnership
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — UNCW Athletics has announced a new multi-year partnership with Novant Health and EmergeOrtho that university officials say represents the largest financial investment of its kind in the department’s history.
Beginning with the 2026-27 academic year, Novant Health will serve as the Seahawks’ official healthcare provider, while EmergeOrtho will become the official sports medicine provider.
The partnership will bring expanded medical services and facility upgrades to UNCW’s campus, including a dedicated sports medicine complex with physicians, orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, nutritionists and mental health professionals available to support student-athletes without leaving campus.
UNCW Director of Athletics Michael Oblinger called the agreement a defining moment for the athletic department.
“As college athletics continues to evolve, our commitment to the health, wellness, and success of our student-athletes must evolve with it,” Oblinger said. “This is more than a healthcare partnership — it’s a long-term investment in the holistic development of our student-athletes and a bold step forward for the future of Seahawk Athletics.”
Officials said the agreement also includes significant investments in athletic facilities, expanded sports medicine resources and new name, image and likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes.
Novant Health Coastal Region Vice President of Operations and Surgical Services Josh Tucker said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to student-athlete success both on and off the field.
“Together with UNCW Athletics and EmergeOrtho, we are bringing our collective expertise to deliver comprehensive care that helps student-athletes perform at their peak, recover effectively and thrive both in competition and in the classroom,” Tucker said.
EmergeOrtho Executive Director for the Coastal Region Zach Welch said the practice has served as UNCW Athletics’ sports medicine partner for more than 50 years and looks forward to expanding that relationship.
Under the agreement, Novant Health and EmergeOrtho branding will appear on the men’s and women’s basketball jerseys, marking the first jersey patch sponsorship in UNCW Athletics history. The logos will also appear on Sammy C. Hawk’s jersey and on baseball and softball helmets.
Additional branding will include signage throughout athletic venues, digital and social media campaigns, and community NIL activations.
University officials said the partnership is designed to enhance the overall student-athlete experience while providing long-term healthcare support and expanding access to specialized medical services on campus.
