April 9, 2025

From Injury to Victory: The Mindset of a Champion

Every athlete faces setbacks—but what separates the best is how they rise again.

In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, I sit down with Jency Riley Jr., a tight end at Jackson State University, to talk about the real struggles of ACL injuries—not just the physical toll, but the mental battles too.

With over 13 years of experience as an orthopedic surgeon, I break down the recovery process, the emotional rollercoaster of returning to play, and the winning mindset needed to come back stronger. Plus, we dive into key strategies for resilience, mental toughness, and staying motivated through the toughest challenges.

If you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this is the inside look you need to help turn obstacles into opportunities.

In case you missed it, here’s a recap of our two most recent podcast episodes:

🎧 Back in the Game: The Road to ACL Recovery with Jency Riley Jr.

While the physical impact is clear—strains, tears, and breaks—the mental and emotional effects can be just as severe. The fear of never returning to peak performance can cloud an…Read more

🎧 Overcoming Resistance and Prioritizing Recovery

Sometimes, we aren’t given a choice. A diagnosis, an injury, or an emotional collapse compels us to pause and reevaluate what truly matters. These moments bring…Read more

Both episodes are available on your favorite podcast streaming platforms and on our YouTube channel. Subscribe and click the notification bell to be in the loop when new posts get published.

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Rooting for your success!

Dr. Derrick Burgess,
www.drderrickthesportsdr.com

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Dr. Derrick Burgess

Orthopedic Surgeon, Sports Medicine

Dr. Derrick Burgess is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Sportsmedicine specialist, known for his expertise in orthopedics and his dedication to empowering others. As the host of the TimeOut With The SportsDr Podcast, Dr. Burgess provides insights and practical tips for success in life, sports, and medicine.

Dr. Burgess is Co-Captain with his wife Myeasha, pediatric dentist, in building a winning team with their three beautiful children. It was in high school that Dr. Burgess, a Muscle Shoals, Alabama native, realized his interest in orthopaedics. After suffering an injury in football, Burgess discovered a mentor that would be a catalyst for his pursuit of medicine. He embodies the same passion to impact other young people to "Dream Big" to achieve their wildest desires.

With a career spanning over a decade, Dr. Burgess has established himself as a leading figure in orthopedic surgery. He holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FAAOS). Throughout his career, Dr. Burgess has prioritized patient care and has served as a Team Physician for Jackson State University, supporting athletes in achieving peak performance.

Dr. Burgess's journey in orthopedic surgery has been marked by significant achievements. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the Cincinnati SportsMedicine & Orthopaedic Center, where he refined his skills under the mentorship of renowned surgeons. Subsequently, he served as an Orthopedic Surgeon at South Central Regional Medical Center, delive… Read More

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