Sherman College and USC Upstate Team Up to Support Spartan Student-Athletes
New partnership enhances chiropractic care for athletes while giving Sherman interns real-world experience
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Two Spartanburg institutions are joining forces to elevate student success both on and off the field. Sherman College of Chiropractic and the University of South Carolina Upstate (USC Upstate) have signed a new partnership that blends health, education, and community impact — providing chiropractic care for USC Upstate athletes while giving Sherman student interns invaluable hands-on experience.
Through this collaboration, Sherman College Chiropractic Center interns, under the supervision of Dr. Michael L. Tomasello, associate professor of clinical sciences and Case Doctor for Sports Outreach, will visit USC Upstate regularly to deliver chiropractic care to Spartan student-athletes.
Chiropractic care plays a vital role in athletic performance — improving function, mobility, and recovery from injuries. With this partnership, USC Upstate athletes will now have access to consistent, professional care right on campus.
A Win-Win for Students and the Community
The agreement, officially signed by Sherman College President Dr. Jack Bourla and USC Upstate Chancellor Dr. Bennie L. Harris, represents a milestone in collaboration between the two Spartanburg-based schools.
“This partnership is a win-win,” said Dr. Jack Bourla, president of Sherman College. “Our interns gain valuable, hands-on experience working in a dynamic collegiate athletic environment, while USC Upstate’s student-athletes receive the benefits of regular chiropractic care to support their performance, recovery, and overall well-being.”
Dr. Bennie L. Harris, chancellor of USC Upstate, said the collaboration aligns perfectly with the university’s mission to promote student success both on and off the field.
“At USC Upstate, we are committed to helping our students reach their highest potential—academically, personally, and athletically,” Harris said. “Partnering with Sherman College adds another important layer of support for our student-athletes’ health and performance, while also enriching the learning experience for Sherman interns. It’s a true community partnership in action.”
Enhancing Athlete Care and Performance
Matthew D. Martin, USC Upstate’s Director of Athletics and Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics, also praised the initiative for strengthening athlete care and performance.
“Our athletes put tremendous effort into representing USC Upstate at the highest level,” Martin said. “Having Sherman College’s chiropractic interns as part of our wellness team helps ensure they can train and compete safely, recover faster, and maintain peak performance.”
Real-World Learning for Sherman Interns
Dr. Tomasello emphasized that the experience is invaluable for Sherman students preparing to enter practice.
“This experience bridges the classroom and the Chiropractic Center,” Dr. Tomasello said. “Our interns learn how to apply chiropractic principles in a real-world sports setting, working directly with athletes and coaches. The lessons they take from these experiences are invaluable as they prepare to become doctors of chiropractic managing their own practices.”
A Shared Commitment to Spartanburg’s Future
The Sherman–USC Upstate partnership reflects both institutions’ dedication to education, health, and community collaboration — benefiting students and strengthening Spartanburg’s role as a hub for innovation and learning. Together, they’re preparing future chiropractors for meaningful careers while helping student-athletes reach their full potential.
About Sherman College of Chiropractic
Sherman College of Chiropractic provides students with a comprehensive education that prepares them to become highly skilled, compassionate, and ethical Doctors of Chiropractic. Located on an 80-acre campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Sherman is internationally recognized for its unique approach and focus on chiropractic excellence. Its on-campus Chiropractic Center offers high-quality, affordable care for patients of all ages while serving as a teaching clinic for interns in their final stage of study. Learn more at www.sherman.edu or call 800-849-8771.
About the University of South Carolina Upstate
The University of South Carolina Upstate is a comprehensive public university serving approximately 4,600 students and offering more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USC Upstate is recognized as one of the top regional public universities in the South and is dedicated to preparing graduates to be productive citizens and professionals. Learn more at www.uscupstate.edu.