The second recipient of 2023 is Rick Blevins, who plays a very unique role in our local sports scene as the University of Kansas Health System\u2019s sports venue nurse manager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rick has an impressive background of service, including twelve years in the U.S. Army, seven years as a paramedic, and 20 years as a nurse in KU\u2019s emergency room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He is now putting that extensive, high-pressure training to great use keeping all of us safe and healthy at Kauffman Stadium, Arrowhead and T-Mobile Center. His largest amount of time is spent at \u201cThe K\u201d where he leads a team of health system employees who are tasked with responding to medical-related incidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It includes two first aid stations and three response teams that oversee the stadium and parking lot. They are the initial responders to any issue that might arise during a game \u2013 from someone being hit by a foul ball all the way to someone suffering a stroke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now in his sixth year playing this important role, Rick is in charge of hiring staff, getting the right equipment and then organizing and overseeing the team\u2019s on-site execution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rick says his goal for every game is all about the fan experience. He is there to support the fans and protect them from any unfortunate medical situation so they can have the very best overall experience possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With so much of his career having been spent at the hospital, in ambulances and E.R. \u2013 where oftentimes he was working in less than positive situations \u2013 this stadium work has been a dramatic change. He loves the environment of helping fans enjoy their sports passion with family and friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A native of Blue Eye, Missouri \u2013 population 99 \u2013 near Branson, Rick has made Kansas City home and in the process has given our community a career-full of excellent service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For his behind-the-scenes role in helping provide a safe experience at Kansas City sports venues, Rick will be honored with the Blue KC Answering the Call award at the royals game this Friday night at the K. Thanks to Blue KC for presenting this award and congratulations to this month\u2019s honoree, Rick Blevins!<\/p>\n\n\n
Blue KC Answering the Call Program<\/p> <\/div>\n