CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- For 41 years Broncos players found the same familiar face when needing treatment for an injury. Steve "Greek" Antonopulos served as the team's head athletic trainer, a constant presence at the facility day and night.
After four decades, Greek indicated he was ready for a change. The Broncos promoted him Wednesday to director of sports medicine, naming his assistant Vince Garcia to replace him.
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"Greek’s been a cornerstone of the Denver Broncos for more than four decades, and we’re excited to have him move up a level," Broncos general manager John Elway said. "In talking with Greek, he indicated that he was ready to make this transition and turn the head athletic training position over to the very qualified and well-respected Vince Garcia. There’s nothing more important than the health of our players, and Vince is prepared for the important responsibilities as our lead athletic trainer. We’re in good hands with Greek overseeing our sports medicine program and Vince becoming our head athletic trainer.” Antonopulos began his career in Denver as an assistant trainer in 1976. His 41 years are believed to be longest in NFL history with one team. "While it's difficult to pass on those responsibilities, I know this is the right move for my family and me," Antonopulos said. "I could not think of a better fit than Vince Garcia to become the Denver Broncos' head athletic trainer. He cares about our players, and always puts their well-being first." Garcia served as Antonopulos' assistant the past five seasons. He earned his bachelor's degree in sport and exercises science from Northern Colorado, and earned his master's degree in sports medicine from Oregon State.
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