As I prepare to retire from Vail Summit Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery at the end of 2025, I find myself reflecting on a career that has given my life tremendous purpose. For more than thirty years, I have had the privilege of caring for athletes, families, and community members who inspire me every day. This work has shaped who I am, and it has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

For Dr. William Sterett, this time of year always brings back memories. As a former U.S. Ski Team physician, he traveled the globe with some of the fastest athletes on earth, helping them recover, perform, and push the limits of the sport. Today, from his clinic in Vail, Dr. Sterett shares his perspective on the season ahead, and offers a heartfelt good luck to all of the athletes competing on the road to the 2026 Olympics.

Recently, Tiger underwent another back surgery that has generated plenty of discussion in sports and medical circles alike. While Dr. Sterett was not involved in Tiger Woods’ care, he offers a theoretical explanation of what this operation may have involved and what it could mean for Tiger’s game moving forward.

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the mountain town of Vail, Colorado, I’ve worked with countless athletes who faced the heartbreak of a season-ending injury. For many, the physical pain is only part of the challenge. The bigger hurdle can be dealing with the disappointment of missed practices, games, and time with teammates.

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the active mountain town of Vail, Colorado, I often see young athletes who push themselves to the limit. Playing multiple sports is a great way to build diverse skills and keep kids engaged, but without the right balance, it can also lead to overuse injuries.

For those who live in the mountains, or travel here every winter, skiing and snowboarding aren’t just hobbies, they’re a way of life. But hitting the slopes without preparation can set you up for injury, especially when it comes to your knees and shoulders.

As Dr. William Sterett, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, explains:

“Most of the injuries I see early in the season are preventable. A little work before the lifts start spinning can save you months of recovery later.”

When you’re facing an orthopedic surgery, whether it’s for your knee, shoulder, or another joint, it’s natural to feel both hopeful and a little overwhelmed. Knowing the right questions to ask your surgeon can help you feel informed, confident, and prepared for the road ahead.

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, explains, “Patients do better when they’re active participants in their care. Asking thoughtful questions isn’t just encouraged, it’s essential.”

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the active mountain town of Vail, Colorado, I’m often asked which sports pose the highest risk for injury. You might think of extreme sports or high-speed activities first—but you may be surprised by what consistently shows up at the top of the list.

Here are some of the most common shoulder injuries Team Sterett treats in mountain bikers (and how we help get them back on the bike).

Implement these 3 health tips, and you just might have your best year yet!

As you are following through on your putting motion, your hand spasms and you shank the ball badly. You shrug it off. But then, two holes later, the same thing happens! Oh no. You’ve got the yips!

The Olympics only come around once every 4 years. Some of our more talented competitors have the chance to compete at more than one Olympic games. But many others get only one shot at it.

Dr. Sterett will proudly display this logo on his websites as he celebrates 20 years as the Head Physician for U.S. Ski.