From youth sports to weekend warriors to elite athletes, Saint Alphonsus has earned a reputation for sports medicine excellence throughout the region.
Earlier this year, Athletic Club Boise welcomed Saint Alphonsus as its Official Sports Medicine Provider. The relationship with Idaho’s first professional USL soccer club reflects Saint Alphonsus’s commitment to high-performance care.
“From preparation to play and recovery to rehab, Saint Alphonsus will walk with the athletes of Athletic Club Boise every step of the way,” said David McFadyen, President and CEO of Saint Alphonsus Health System.
Their sports medicine works goes far beyond professional soccer. Saint Alphonsus supports Ballet Idaho, helping both professional dancers and aspiring performers stay healthy, resilient, and stage-ready. They collaborate with youth organizations such as Rush Soccer and Optimist Football, providing sideline coverage, injury assessments, and education on safe training practices. And they are highly visible supporters at major community events like Boise Ironman, Jaialdi, and The Boise Open, where their providers ensure medical support is available when it’s needed most.
Just as important is the care they provide every day throughout the Treasure Valley at their seven orthopedic and sports medicine clinics. That includes three dedicated orthopedic urgent care clinics, including at 6051 W Emerald Street in Boise – where their physicians stand ready to provide immediate care for injuries involving bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles.
We asked Dr. Derek Kunz, the Medical Director of Saint Alphonsus Sports Medicine, to share his insights about how the organization supports the community and maintains its commitment to providing accessible, expert care.
Q: What sets Saint Alphonsus Sports Medicine apart from other programs in the region?
Dr. Kunz:
What truly distinguishes our program is the integrated, multidisciplinary model we’ve built. Our team includes fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and athletic trainers who work together to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s goals. We don’t just treat injuries—we treat the whole athlete. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a high school competitor, or a professional player, our approach is rooted in understanding the person behind the injury. That means considering lifestyle, performance goals, and long-term wellness, not just short-term recovery.
Q: How does Saint Alphonsus make care accessible across the Treasure Valley?
Dr. Kunz:
Accessibility is a cornerstone of our mission. We’ve strategically placed Sports Medicine clinics and Orthopedic Urgent Care centers in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell to ensure that expert care is never far away. These locations offer walk-in access, on-site imaging, and same-day evaluations for acute injuries. We know that when someone is hurt—whether it’s a sprained ankle or a suspected fracture—time matters. Our goal is to eliminate barriers to care and provide timely, high-quality treatment close to home. We also offer extended hours and weekend availability to accommodate busy schedules.
Q: Can you talk about your involvement with youth sports and high schools?
Dr. Kunz:
We’re incredibly proud of our deep roots in youth athletics. Through our Sports Medicine Outreach Department, we provide on-site medical coverage for high school teams, club sports, and community tournaments. Our athletic trainers and physicians are embedded in schools and on sidelines, building relationships with athletes, coaches, and families. We offer pre-season sports physicals, injury prevention workshops, and real-time injury assessments during games. It’s about being present—not just in the clinic, but in the community—so young athletes can compete safely and confidently.
Q: What types of injuries and treatments are commonly addressed in your clinics?
Dr. Kunz:
We see a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries, from ACL tears and rotator cuff injuries to stress fractures and concussions. Our clinics are equipped to handle both acute and chronic conditions. We offer diagnostic ultrasound, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, ultrasound-guided injections, and comprehensive rehabilitation planning. Every treatment is grounded in evidence-based medicine, and we tailor our approach to the athlete’s sport, position, and recovery timeline. Our goal is to restore function and prevent re-injury, so patients can return to activity stronger than before.
Q: How does your background influence your philosophy of care?
Dr. Kunz:
Growing up in Idaho, I experienced firsthand the importance of accessible, community-based care. That upbringing shaped my belief that sports medicine should be proactive, not just reactive. I strive to meet patients where they are—whether that’s on the field, in the clinic, or at a community event. I’ve always believed that the best care happens when providers are part of the fabric of the community. It’s not just about treating injuries; it’s about building trust and helping people stay active throughout their lives.
Q: What if a patient needs advanced or specialized care beyond sports medicine?
Dr. Kunz:
That’s one of the biggest advantages of being part of the Saint Alphonsus Health System. If a patient needs specialized care — whether it’s orthopedic surgery, neurology, cardiology, or pain management — we can seamlessly coordinate referrals within our network. This means faster access to diagnostics, consultations, and treatment plans, all under one umbrella. It’s a streamlined experience that reduces delays and ensures continuity of care. Athletes and active individuals benefit from a comprehensive system that supports every stage of recovery and performance.
Q: What’s next for Saint Alphonsus Sports Medicine?
Dr. Kunz:
We’re focused on growth and innovation. That includes expanding our clinic footprint, enhancing urgent care services, and increasing our presence in youth sports. We’re also investing in new technologies and treatment modalities to stay at the forefront of sports medicine. Our vision is to be the most accessible, trusted, and forward-thinking provider in the region. Whether it’s through community outreach, clinical excellence, or strategic partnerships, we’re committed to elevating the standard of care for every athlete we serve.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit saintalphonsus.org/sports-medicine or call (208) 302-3500.
Whether treating weekend warriors or professional players, the team focuses on personalized care that supports performance, safety, and long-term athletic health.