Blake R. Boggess, DO, professor of Orthopaedics and Community and Family Medicine at Duke University, recently served as Chief Medical Officer for the U.S. delegation at the 2025 World University Games in Germany—an international honor that highlights Duke’s leadership in global sports medicine.
Held in the Rhine-Ruhr region, this year’s Games welcomed over 8,500 athletes from around the world, competing in 18 sports. Often referred to as the “Olympics for college athletes,” the World University Games are the second-largest multi-sport event in the world, second only to the Olympic Games. While NCAA Division I championships are the pinnacle of U.S. college sports, the World University Games represent the highest level of international collegiate competition, with many athletes also attending American universities.
Dr. Boggess, who has served as a physician for the Games since 2011, supervised medical care for 525 U.S. athletes and coaches. He also organized a global medical symposium for healthcare providers attending the Games. The event included a didactic session on “Sideline Medical Management of Emergencies,” followed by hands-on training in joint relocation, splinting techniques, and musculoskeletal ultrasound.
“It’s an incredible privilege to represent Duke and the United States on a global stage,” said Dr. Boggess. “These athletes are competing at the highest level, and our goal is to ensure they have world-class medical support. The symposium was a powerful opportunity to share knowledge and foster international collaboration in sports medicine.”
Dr. Boggess was joined by his wife, Amelia, who served as the U.S. Delegation Office Manager, supporting logistics and operations for Team USA.
Looking ahead, excitement is growing for 2029, when the World University Games will be held in North Carolina—a historic chance to bring this global event to Duke’s home state. Learn more at ncusa2029wug.com.