NFL, Santa Clara University and 49ers Foundation Convene Annual Super Bowl Health Symposium

Medical leadership from the National Football League joined with Santa Clara University and the 49ers Foundation to host the fourth annual Super Bowl Health Symposium on Friday, February 6, 2026, ahead of Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium.

The full-day program was led by medical experts from the NFL and the Bay Area sports medicine community and brought together physicians, athletic trainers and medical students. Sessions covered key aspects of injury prevention, concussion protocol and management, emergency preparedness, protective equipment, rehabilitation and return-to-play, and interdisciplinary collaborative care.

“This annual symposium provides a valuable forum for the sports medicine professionals to discuss the latest research, best practices and innovations in athlete health and safety,” said Dr. Allen Sills, NFL Chief Medical Officer. “Collaboration is at the heart of our efforts to provide the highest quality of care for athletes, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share findings from our work, learn from other experts, and continue exploring these critical topics.”

“This symposium reflects our shared commitment to advancing athlete health and safety through education, collaboration and innovation,” said Dr. John York, Co-Chair of the San Francisco 49ers and Chair of the NFL’s Health & Safety Advisory Committee. “I was especially proud to include 30 Santa Clara Unified 49ers STEM Leadership Institute students, alumni, and faculty in the Summit, and to see members of our 49ers medical staff actively participating alongside leaders from across the sports medicine community. Bringing together the next generation of professionals with experienced practitioners is essential to strengthening the future of athlete care.”

“Bringing the Super Bowl Health Symposium to Santa Clara University demonstrates what is possible when world class organizations and higher education come together around a shared mission,” said Ryan Holleman, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Health, Wellness, & Performance at Santa Clara University. “It’s a powerful opportunity to showcase our campus and the leadership role Santa Clara University continues to play in the Bay Area sports landscape.”

The symposium reflected the ongoing commitment of the NFL and the sports medicine community to advance athlete care through collaboration and innovation.