Athens, Ga. (August 14, 2025) – Piedmont Athens Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is proud to announce Rhett Allison, a seventh-grade football player at Oconee Middle School, as the Athlete of the Month. Allison’s determination and perseverance in returning to football following a chondral defect of the knee diagnosis demonstrate resilience, discipline, positivity, and good sportsmanship.
Shortly after the conclusion of spring football, Allison received his diagnosis and faced the abrupt transition from running and playing with friends to navigating life on crutches. Notably, there was no specific incident that caused his injury. The defects can result from acute trauma or underlying conditions, often leading to pain, swelling, and a recovery period ranging from three to six months. Yet, Allison’s response has been nothing short of incredible.
Throughout the summer, despite not being able to put weight on his leg, Allison has shown remarkable discipline by attending every football practice. He consistently modifies exercises and trains alongside his teammates to remain involved. His commitment to his team extends well beyond physical participation—never content to simply observe, he is always the first to help, actively engaging in any way possible and serving as a motivational presence when needed.
Supporting him on his path to recovery is his care team at Piedmont Athens, including Chynna Campbell, the Piedmont Athens Regional Sports Medicine athletic trainer at Oconee Middle. Allison currently attends physical therapy one to two times a week and performs exercises on his own three times a day, every day, with the goal of rejoining his team on the field.
“Rhett’s attitude has been inspiring. Even while facing a tough diagnosis and the challenges of recovery, he’s shown up every day with a positive mindset and an unwavering commitment to meeting his goals,” Campbell shares. “His determination to stay involved, support his teammates, and work hard toward his return to the field speaks volumes about his character. He’s a true example of resilience and leadership.”
Allison’s story shows how determination, combined with a supportive environment and the right care, can transform setbacks into opportunities for growth. As his recovery continues, the entire community looks forward to his return to the field, confident that he will continue to inspire—both on and off the field.
“The athletes we support are truly exceptional, overcoming significant challenges to return to their sports after injuries or illnesses,” said Katie Terrell, athletic trainer and outreach coordinator for the hospital’s sports medicine program. “This award was established to recognize their dedication and hard work in our sports medicine rehab program. We are delighted to work with student-athletes from middle school through college and into adulthood. Our athletic trainers and therapists, with their advanced training in sports medicine, are committed to helping student-athletes stay active and excel in their sports.”
As Athlete of the Month, Allison received a certificate and is now featured at the Orthopedic Sports Medicine facility on Piedmont’s Oconee Health Campus in Watkinsville, GA.
Piedmont is proud to serve student-athletes across the state of Georgia and is the official healthcare provider for the University of Georgia Athletic Association.