Oklahoma State Athletics’ Longtime Team Physician, Dr. Val Gene Iven, Announces Retirement

After 19 years as the head team physician for Oklahoma State University (OSU) Athletics, Dr. Val Gene Iven has announced his retirement, the university announced on Monday, February 16, 2026. Dr. Iven’s career spans 32 years in college athletics.

A Legacy of Service at Oklahoma State

Dr. Iven began his tenure at OSU in 2007, returning to his alma mater to serve as Head Team Physician. He expressed gratitude for his time with the university, stating, “I’ve been blessed to have worked in college athletics for 32 years, including 19 at my alma mater and the alma mater of my parents.”

A 1985 graduate of Oklahoma State, Dr. Iven completed his medical training at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, including a family medicine residency and a fellowship in Primary Care Sports Medicine – the program’s first .

Prior Experience and Notable Achievements

Before returning to Stillwater, Dr. Iven served as the head team physician for the University of Tennessee for 13 years, contributing to their 1998 national championship football team. Throughout his career, he has worked over 400 collegiate football games and overseen the medical care for 29 bowl teams and 10 national championship teams across six sports.

Dr. Iven’s leadership was particularly crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he coordinated OSU’s medical advisory team and developed a plan that received widespread praise. He also actively participated in committees within both the Big 12 and Southeastern Conferences.

Transition and Future Leadership

Dr. Iven is the second longest-tenured head team physician in the Big 12 Conference. As he transitions from his role as NCAA Athletic Healthcare Administrator, Oklahoma State Athletics will focus on identifying a successor capable of maintaining the high standards of athlete care and health crisis management established during his tenure.

He expressed appreciation for the support he received from former OSU President Burns Hargis and former Athletic Director Mike Holder, as well as the dedication of the athletic training staff and medical consultants.