Dr. Jeffrey Noftz Transitions from BGSU Sidelines to the BGSU Classroom After 21 Years of Service

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – After more than two decades on the sidelines supporting Bowling Green State University student-athletes, Dr. Jeffrey Noftz, MD, PT, is stepping into a new chapter at BGSU. Following 21 years of service as Head Team Physician and Director of Athletic Medicine, Noftz will transition into the classroom at BGSU in the School of Applied Human Development, while continuing his service to the Bowling Green community.

“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Noftz for his 21 years of service and unwavering dedication to BGSU student-athletes,” said Vice President for Athletics Strategy Derek van der Merwe. “His leadership, compassion, and innovation have set the standard for athletic medicine on our campus. Dr. Noftz has been a trusted presence on our sidelines, in our training rooms, and in the lives of countless student-athletes. While we will miss him in athletics, we are excited that he will continue to make a profound impact here at BGSU and in the Bowling Green community.”

Noftz, a 1992 graduate of BGSU with a degree in physical therapy, has been a cornerstone of Falcon Athletics since 2004, caring for student-athletes across every sport. He was named Head Team Physician in 2006 and helped shape BGSU’s Sports Performance Program, integrating experts in nutrition, psychology, and exercise science to support the holistic success of Falcon student-athletes.

His tenure included supporting BGSU during some of its most memorable athletic eras, from the Urban Meyer years in football to Mid-American Conference championships under coaches Dave Clawson and Dino Babers. Noftz was also a constant presence for BGSU Volleyball’s rise to national prominence and the tradition-rich men’s and women’s basketball programs. While Dr. Thomas Wojciechowski has been the longtime primary physician for Falcon Hockey, Noftz was often called upon to support hockey athletes through injury recovery, return-to-play decisions, and broader health needs. Beyond those, he touched virtually every sport on campus, earning the respect and trust of countless student-athletes, coaches, and colleagues.

“My journey with BGSU began in 1981 as a walk-on football player, and after some detours through the Air Force, physical therapy school, and medical school, I had the incredible honor of returning as head team physician for 21 years,” said Dr. Noftz. “BGSU gave me second chances that shaped my entire career, and I’ve tried to pay that forward every single day.

 

“Over two decades, I’ve had the privilege of caring for hundreds of student-athletes across all sports, including over 30 football players who went on to NFL careers—several even made it to Super Bowl teams. From developing safety protocols for conditions like sickle cell trait and concussions to covering our women’s basketball team’s Sweet 16 run in 2007, every moment has been rewarding.”

Prior to his return to Bowling Green, Noftz built a career blending medicine and athletics. He began as a physical therapist at the Medical College of Ohio (now University of Toledo Medical Center), working with athletes from local weekend warriors to Olympians and serving as a lead physical therapist for Toledo football. After earning his Doctor of Medicine degree from MCO in 2001, he completed his residency as Chief Resident and later launched the first Primary Care Sports Medicine practice at MCO, where he also directed innovative performance programs for athletes recovering from injuries.

In 2004, he came back to his alma mater, not only leading BGSU’s sports medicine efforts but also serving as Medical Director for the BGSU Student Health Center. Alongside his university work, he opened Jump Start Physical Therapy in Bowling Green, further strengthening his commitment to local athletes and families.

A proud U.S. Air Force veteran (1984–88), Noftz has lived a life of service—first to his country, then to athletes, and now to the next generation of BGSU students. He and his wife Renee reside in Bowling Green and are parents to their daughter Jordan.

“My gameday routine has always started in the training room – helping prepare our student-athletes for competition,” said Noftz. “This fall, for the first time in 21 years, my pre-game preparation will shift from IVs and injury assessments to tailgating with fellow Falcon fans. I’ll miss the adrenaline of managing on-field injuries, the satisfaction of clearing athletes for return to play, and especially singing ‘Ay Ziggy Zoomba’ with the team after victories.

 

“What I’ll treasure most are the relationships built with student-athletes, coaches, and colleagues—those connections are what made every early morning and late night worthwhile. As I transition to teaching the next generation in the School of Applied Human Development, I’m grateful for BGSU’s continued faith in me and excited to serve this incredible university in a new capacity.”

As Noftz transitions from the locker room to the lecture hall, his impact will continue to be felt across campus. His dedication, innovation, and care have left an enduring mark on Falcon Athletics, and his influence will carry forward into the classroom and community for years to come.

On November 1, during the BGSU football game against Buffalo, Dr. Noftz will be recognized for his many years of service and dedication to the University. In addition, the Athletic Department will host a reception for the campus community and the city of Bowling Green to celebrate and show appreciation for his career. Details on the date and time of the reception will be shared once confirmed.