NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Victoria M. "Vicky" Chun, Yale's Thomas A. Beckett Director of Athletics, has announced the hiring of Paul Smith as Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Health & Performance.
 
"We are pleased to welcome Paul back to Yale Athletics," said Chun. "His dedication to the health, well-being, and performance of student-athletes is second to none. His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to elevate our commitment to holistic student-athlete care."
 
In this role, Smith will provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for Yale's athletic medicine and sports performance departments, supporting the health, safety, and optimal performance of student-athletes across all 35 varsity programs. He will also serve as a key liaison to Yale Mental Health & Counseling, coordinating efforts with the department's embedded athletics mental health counselor.
 
Smith returns to Yale after nearly four years at the University of Arizona, where he served as Associate Director for Medical Services and Head Football Athletic Trainer. From 2017 to 2020, he previously held positions at Yale as Associate Head Athletic Trainer and Head Football Athletic Trainer.
 
"I am honored to rejoin Yale Athletics in this role," said Smith. "I look forward to working closely with our Athletic Medicine, Sports Performance, and Mental Health & Counseling staffs to enhance the student-athlete experience and ensure Yale remains a leader in student-athlete care and performance."
 
Before his time at Arizona, Smith was Director of Athletic Training for Football at Boise State University. In 2017, he received the Northwest Athletic Trainers' Association (NWATA) New Horizon Award, recognizing emerging professionals for outstanding service, leadership, and contributions to the field of athletic training.
 
Smith earned his undergraduate degree in athletic training from Boston University in 2012 and a master's degree in kinesiology with a biophysical emphasis from Boise State University in 2014. He is certified by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) Board of Certification and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).