American athletics did not always recognize sports medicine, as few understood what it was. However, when conversations grew louder about a rise in sports injuries, Randi R. Baptiste, DPodM, presented a solution.
A Question That Sparked Change
Baptiste didn’t see a problem with coaching; instead, he saw a problem with education. “Why is that?” he asked after hearing numerous accounts of kids getting injured playing sports. The question arose during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when Baptiste visited with various groups. He grew concerned that coaches did not understand how to protect their athletes from injury. This sparked an interest in helping coaches get better at their jobs. “I am not trying to take over,” he says. “I’m just a safety coach. That’s my only concern.”
Five years into his role as chief executive officer of Central Valley Academy of Sports Science, Baptiste leads a growing movement in which sports medicine and biomechanics are integrated into everyday training environments. Based in California’s Central Valley, his nonprofit model provides access to sports science for youth teams, coaches, and students.
A Practical Solution for a National Problem
The Central Valley Academy of Sports Science exists solely to prevent injuries before they happen. With a background in podiatric medicine and sports therapy, Baptiste noticed a consistent pattern. Young athletes were overtrained, improperly conditioned and left vulnerable. The root cause of this situation was the coaches’ lack of formal training in biomechanics and physiology.
Baptiste addressed this issue by creating a sports medicine program. In collaboration with the National Holistic Institute, he developed a hands-on environment where students could observe or assist during academy events. This arrangement gave aspiring professionals real-world exposure and introduced athletic communities to sports medicine.
A Commitment to Athlete Wellness
Baptiste was born and raised in Hackney, a low-income neighborhood in London. However, he overcame challenges to achieve success. In 1987, he earned a bachelor’s degree in sports and exercise from the University of Bedfordshire. Years later, he received a degree in podiatric medicine from University College London. Baptiste regards his admission to a top medical school as one of his most notable accomplishments.
Upon moving to the United States, Baptiste became a certified pedorthist. In this capacity, he modified footwear and employed supportive devices to address foot and lower limb conditions. This work enabled him to help athletes recover while exploring new connections between biomechanics and coaching.
With more than 20 years of experience in health care and human movement, Baptiste continues to build on what he started. In addition to leading the Central Valley Academy of Sports Science, he contributes to the Sport Science & Biomechanics Lab as the director. Additionally, he holds memberships in the National Strength and Conditioning Association and the American College of Sports Medicine.
A Matter of Family and Purpose
Support from his wife remains a central part of Baptiste’s success. Whether launching programs, raising children, or supporting one another’s career aspirations, the two tackle challenges together. Baptiste aspires to obtain a doctorate in psychology after completing his bachelor’s degree in the same field, while his wife plans to pursue a law degree.
Ultimately, Baptiste remains dedicated to protecting young athletes. With a focus on delivering top-quality athletic care, he aims to train more professionals. “We’re going to use people with advanced certifications who understand the mechanism of injuries,” he says. “If all goes as planned, perhaps fewer parents will have to watch their children sidelined with injuries.”
