Baltimore Ravens executive vice president and general manager Eric DeCosta announced Monday that Dr. Nic Gill ("Gilly") has been hired as the organization's vice president of health and performance. Gilly will lead integrated efforts across the strength and conditioning, medical, nutrition and sports science teams to optimize player health and performance.
Dr. Gill owns more than two decades of elite high-performance experience, including nearly 20 years with the renowned New Zealand All Blacks rugby team (most recently as head of health and performance).
Widely regarded as one of the world's leading performance coaches, Dr. Gill first joined the All Blacks in 2004, then rejoined in 2008, ultimately becoming a central figure in the team's physical preparation and sustained performance on a global stage. During his tenure, the All Blacks enjoyed an exceptional era of success – including multiple Rugby World Cup victories (2011 & 2015) and more than 200 test match wins – with a sustained winning percentage above .800 at the international level.
Dr. Gill holds a PhD in Exercise Physiology and is an Associate Professor in Human Performance at the University of Waikato (Hamilton, New Zealand), where he's led and supervised applied research in sports science and athlete development. His dual profile as an applied coach and academic has positioned him at the forefront of translating cutting-edge research into practical, high-impact performance systems.
Dr. Gill is also a highly-regarded health and performance consultant for corporate organizations and high-performing professionals. A sought-after speaker on topics that include high-performance culture, resilience and health, his work has been profiled throughout international media. He has been featured in numerous documentaries and series, such as All or Nothing: New Zealand All Blacks.
Statement from Eric DeCosta
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Nic Gill to the Ravens family as vice president of health and performance. Gilly is an accomplished leader who has demonstrated a profound ability to impact the New Zealand All Blacks as a strength and wellness specialist for over 18 years, including two World Cup titles during that span. As an expert in high performance, Gilly's ability to lead an integrated and collaborative staff and to develop strong lasting relationships with players makes him an ideal fit for this newly-created role. The health and performance of our players is paramount, and we are confident that Nic Gill positions us to be an industry standard organization moving forward. Congratulations to Gilly and his wife, Mel, as they begin their next chapter here in Baltimore, and thanks to everyone who assisted me with this international search, especially Sashi Brown and Steve Clagett."
Statement from Dr. Nic Gill
"I've been incredibly fortunate in my career, and I don't take a move like this lightly. The Ravens felt right, straight away – the people, the standards and the way they care about their players. I'm excited to get to work, build real relationships and help guys stay healthy, available and playing their best football.
"Coming from New Zealand to the NFL is a big move for my family and me, but it's one we're genuinely excited about. The Ravens have a strong reputation for doing things the right way, and I'm grateful for the chance to bring my knowledge and experience here, learn from everyone around me and contribute to something special in Baltimore."
