TOLEDO, Ohio – University of Toledo Vice President and Athletic Director Mike O'Brien announced the promotion of two staff members in the sports medicine office. Brian Jones has been promoted to Senior Associate Athletic Director for Health and Wellness, while Brad Pierson has been promoted to Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine.

Jones, who previously held the title of Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, will also maintain his role as Athletics Healthcare Administrator. He will now provide administrative oversight for all areas related to the health and wellness of Rocket Student Athletes and the management of all athletic training facilities. He will also serve as the liaison to the Health Science Campus and Main Campus Student Services to coordinate care for all student-athletes and will serve as infection control officer for the program.

While supervising health care needs for all student-athletes and working primarily with the men's basketball program, Jones continues to serve on the NCAA Division I Concussion Safety Protocol Committee. During the 2011-12 season, Jones was honored with the Athletic Trainer of the Year award, while also being inducted into Ball State's Cardinal Sports Medicine Society Ring of Honor.

"I am extremely grateful for the continued support of Dr. Postel and Mike O'Brien and the emphasis they have placed on the health and wellness of our student-athletes," said Jones.  "It has been my honor for the past 23 years to help build a strong foundation for delivering the best medical care we can to our athletes. These changes will allow us to continue to expand our services and meet the ever-changing needs of our athletes."

Pierson, now in his eighth year as a member of the UToledo Sports Medicine staff, will continue to work directly with the women's basketball program and oversee several assistant athletic trainers as well as graduate assistant athletic trainers working in the Savage Athletic Training facility. His additional duties will include acting as the liaison with the UToledo Pharmacy for all issues related to student-athlete care and will continue directing the mental health services for our student-athletes. He will be responsible for inventory and budget control for medical supplies, as well as for the administration and oversight of the Savage Athletic Training Facility.

"There is no one more deserving of this promotion than Brad Pierson," said Jones. "His strong work ethic and dedication to the well-being of the student-athlete has no doubt benefited every aspect of our program. I look forward to working with him in this new leadership role to further expand our services, build our brand and deliver top quality healthcare to every student-athlete."