Greg Elkins, M.D., devoted his career to caring for athletes, mentoring future healthcare professionals and advancing sports medicine. Now, his family is ensuring that legacy continues through the creation of the Dr. Greg Elkins Memorial Athletic Training Scholarship at West Virginia University.
Created through a gift from his wife, Joanna, and the Elkins family, the endowed scholarship will provide financial support to students enrolled in the WVU School of Medicine's Master of Science in Athletic Training program.
After earning his athletic training degree from WVU, Elkins went on to complete medical school and a family medicine residency at Marshall University.
He served as a team physician at WVU, and had a passion for caring for student-athletes in his community. For more than 30 years, Elkins served as team physician for Hamlin and Lincoln County high schools, where he was known for his unwavering dedication to the athletes and families he served. He never missed a football game during those three decades.
Elkins was a nationally respected leader in sports medicine. He served as chair of the National Federation of State High School Associations Sports Medicine Advisory Committee and helped shape policies that continue to improve the health and safety of high school athletes nationwide.
His impact on sports medicine was recently recognized through the creation of the Dr. Greg Elkins Memorial High School Team Doctor of the Year Award, presented during the 2026 Emergency Care in Sport Conference. The conference was held in partnership with the NFL and Cedars-Sinai at the Los Angeles Rams Practice Complex in Woodland Hills, California.
The award honors physicians who demonstrate an enduring commitment to the health and well-being of high school student-athletes while carrying forward Elkins' legacy of service.
The Dr. Greg Elkins Memorial Athletic Training Scholarship extends that legacy to WVU students pursuing careers in athletic training. By investing in future healthcare professionals, the Elkins family hopes to ensure Elkins' passion for service, mentorship and athlete care continues to inspire future generations.
“This scholarship is a meaningful tribute to Dr. Elkins, whose remarkable career was defined by excellence, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to serving others,” Alma Mattocks, PhD, ATC, CHSE, chair of the Division of Athletic Training, said. “By investing in future athletic training professionals, this scholarship ensures that his legacy will continue to shape the next generation of clinicians and leaders. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to honor Dr. Elkins’ memory while supporting students as they pursue their own paths of excellence.”
The Elkins family's gift was made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.
Make a gift to the Dr. Greg Elkins Memorial Athletic Training Scholarship here.