From School Rejection to Chelsea FC: A Doctor’s Journey
Singaporean Bethany Koh overcame gender barriers to become a top-tier football team doctor.
1Overcoming Early Gender Barriers
Dr. Bethany Koh, a 34-year-old Singaporean, currently serves as a first-team doctor for Chelsea FC Women. Her journey began in school, where a principal once blocked her attempt to form a girls' football team, claiming the sport was not for girls. Despite this early rejection, she remained committed to the game.
2Professional Path to Sports Medicine
Koh pursued her ambition by studying kinesiology in Toronto and medicine in London. She actively sought opportunities by attending sports medicine conferences globally, often volunteering to gain entry. Her persistence in networking eventually led to her first professional medical cover role with Brighton Hove Albion Women in 2023.
3Role on the Team Bench
As a first-team doctor, Koh manages medical care for 27 professional footballers. During matches, her focus remains entirely on the players rather than the game itself. She monitors athletes for signs of injury, such as dazed expressions or unusual walking patterns, ensuring immediate intervention when a player is tackled or injured.
4Managing Elite Athlete Health
Beyond match-day emergencies, Koh functions as a primary care doctor for the squad. She manages daily health concerns ranging from common colds and allergies to menstrual cramps and minor cuts. She maintains a portable pharmacy to treat ailments, ensuring players remain in peak condition for competitive league and cup matches.
5The Complexity of Concussions
Head injuries require specialized protocols, with Koh looking for signs of confusion or staggering. Players suspected of suffering a concussion are immediately removed from play. They must undergo a mandatory rehabilitation period lasting at least eight days, though recovery often extends to 14 days or longer to prevent severe secondary injuries.
6Difficult Decisions and Trust
Koh occasionally faces tension when she must sideline players eager to return to competition. She notes that pulling an athlete for issues like vomiting or a cold is essential to prevent long-term heart muscle damage. While these decisions can strain player trust, she stands by her clinical judgment to ensure safety.
7Integration with the Squad
Koh is deeply integrated into the team's daily operations, joining staff and players for pre-match meals and locker room talks. She describes the experience of joining the post-win huddle as a highlight of her role. This proximity allows her to provide better care by understanding the players' physical and mental states.
8Legacy of Persistent Passion
Having provided medical cover for over 60 matches, Koh has successfully transitioned from a recreational player to an elite medical professional. Her story serves as a testament to the value of pursuing unconventional career paths. She encourages young athletes to stick with their interests, as they may lead to unforeseen professional opportunities.
Original article: CNA – Singapore — From School Rejection to Chelsea FC: A Doctor’s Journey