At Ohio Premier, player development extends far beyond technical ability and match results. We believe the long-term success of our athletes is rooted in their overall well-being — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
To further support this belief, Ohio Premier is proud to introduce the Ohio Premier Player Health Committee, a multidisciplinary group of experts committed to advancing best practices in athlete health, education, and long-term development.
Our Mission
The mission of the Ohio Premier Player Health Committee is to support the holistic development of each individual athlete through systems, programs, and best practices that prioritize both physical and mental health.
Our goal is that every Ohio Premier athlete leaves the club healthier, more informed, and more health-aware than when they arrived — equipped with lifelong skills and habits that support well-being on and off the field. By empowering athletes and families with education, resources, and evidence-based guidance, we aim to create an environment where performance and health grow together.
The Player Health Committee serves as a resource for Ohio Premier players, families, coaches, and staff, with an emphasis on:
- Mental health awareness and education
- Injury prevention and recovery best practices
- Nutrition for growth, performance, and long-term health
- Concussion education and neurological health
- Systems and protocols that support athlete safety and well-being
- Promoting healthy habits that extend beyond soccer
Committee Members
Ryan Patel, DO
Dr. Ryan S. Patel is a college psychiatrist at The Ohio State University with over a decade of experience supporting student mental health and high performance. He serves as a Board Director of the American College Health Association and Chair of its Mental Health Section. Dr. Patel is the author of Mental Health for College Students and works as a clinician, researcher, and consultant on population mental health systems. He also serves as a strategic advisor to Flourish AI.
Megan Schabbing, MD
Dr. Megan Schabbing is a board-certified psychiatrist and the System Medical Director of Psychiatric Emergency Services at OhioHealth. She oversees psychiatric care across emergency departments statewide and has led the development of telemedicine-based psychiatric services. Dr. Schabbing serves on the Medical Advisory Board for Dublin City Schools and focuses clinically and academically on suicide prevention.
Rebecca Youngs, MS, RD, LD
Rebecca Youngs is a registered and licensed dietitian specializing in youth athletes, with experience in both clinical and sports nutrition. She works at Nationwide Children’s Hospital as a Clinical Metabolic Specialist and has served as Ohio Premier’s Director of Performance Nutrition for four years. Rebecca also works with IMG Academy and private clients, with a focus on injury prevention and recovery nutrition.
Obinna (Obi) Moneme, MD
Dr. Obinna Moneme is a board-certified neurologist with OhioHealth and serves as the System Medical Chief of Telehealth. He is also Vice President of the Ohio Premier Board of Directors. Dr. Moneme provides sports neurology consultation for the Columbus Blue Jackets and OhioHealth Sports Medicine, specializing in concussion care for youth and collegiate athletes.
Ryan Blackwell, MD
Dr. Ryan Blackwell is a fellowship-trained orthopedic sports medicine surgeon with Orthopedic ONE, specializing in ACL reconstruction, soft tissue injuries, and sports-related orthopedic care. He serves as Head Team Orthopedic Surgeon for Crew 2 of MLS Next Pro and has experience working with professional and elite athletes across multiple sports, with a strong focus on soccer.
Geoff Omiatek, DPT, ATC, SCS
Geoff is the Director of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine at Orthopedic ONE, overseeing a network of nearly 200 rehabilitation and sports medicine providers across Central Ohio. He has served as the Physical Therapist for the Columbus Crew since 2007 and specializes in orthopedic rehabilitation and injury prevention for athletes at all levels.
Our Commitment to Players and Families
The creation of the Ohio Premier Player Health Committee reflects our commitment to setting a higher standard for youth athlete development. By bringing together leaders in mental health, neurology, nutrition, and sports medicine, we aim to ensure our players are supported not just as athletes — but as people.
Players and families are encouraged to explore the resources below and reach out to the Ohio Premier Player Health Committee at playerhealth@opsoccer.com with any questions or concerns.