SAN FRANCISCO (August 6, 2025) — For thousands of high school athletes across the Bay Area, the UCSF PlaySafe Sports Medicine Program isn’t just a clinic — it’s a vital lifeline. Offering expert care and injury prevention where young athletes live and play, PlaySafe — as it’s commonly called — has helped countless students stay healthy and safe in their pursuit of sports and dreams.

The UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgeryproudly welcomes Dr. Celina de Borja as the new Medical Director of the PlaySafe program, following Dr. Anthony Luke’s remarkable 23-year tenure. Under Dr. Luke’s leadership, PlaySafe grew from a small community outreach to a flagship program known for its care and commitment.

“It’s an honor to carry forward the legacy of Dr. Luke and to uphold the mission of the PlaySafe program. His dedication continues to inspire our work and commitment to safety and excellence,” Dr. de Borja said. “I believe deeply in this work — making sure young athletes in our community have access to quality sports medicine care and injury prevention strategies.”

PlaySafe serves student-athletes year-round with on-site care at the high schools by certified athletic trainers who provide injury prevention programs, and triage referrals to UCSF clinics. Its signature event — the annual PlaySafe Cardiac Physicals — offers free, one-day comprehensive sports physicals each May, including cardiac screenings designed to catch hidden health risks and prevent sudden cardiac death.

“Dr. de Borja is a thoughtful and experienced physician with deep ties to youth athletics,” said Dr. Carlin Senter, Chief of UCSF Primary Care Sports Medicine. “She brings not only clinical expertise, but a passion for mentoring and community engagement that will continue to strengthen and expand the PlaySafe mission.”

Dr. de Borja is a board-certified pediatrician trained in sports medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital Harvard Medical School. She has cared for collegiate athletes and elite youth programs and sees patients at Mission Bay Children’s Hospital and Redwood Shores Orthopaedic Specialty clinic.

“PlaySafe exemplifies UCSF’s commitment to community health and innovation,” said Dr. C. Benjamin Ma, professor and chair of the UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “We’re excited for Dr. de Borja to lead the program into its next phase and are deeply grateful to Dr. Luke for his years of leadership.”