FIRSTAR Let's chAT: an Athletic Therapy podcast

Send us a text with your feedback from this session! WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL ARRANGEMENT?Join this chAT to learn what it means to be an Athletic Trainer/Therapist around the globe and how this can lead to international work, collaboration and growth of our profession. Our distinguished panel discusses how to navigate the agreement, which countries are currently connected through the agreement and how it serves our profession around the globe.  The Panel: Steve Aspinall is a registered Sport Rehabilitator and has been the Chief Executive Officer for BASRaT since 2018 and prior to that he was Chair of the Executive Committee for 13 years. Previously, he was a lecturer in Sport Rehabilitation in the School of Health and Society at the University of Salford for over 20 years and was also an Associate Editor at the British Journal of Sports Medicine from 2015 to 2023; the worlds leading Sports and Exercise Medicine journal. (BASRaT)Pete Dewar currently serves as the Director of Operations for the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA). He is also a Board Member of the Association of Accrediting Agencies of Canada (AAAC), contributing to the oversight and development of accreditation practices across a broad range of disciplines. In addition to his leadership roles in Canada, Pete is internationally engaged as the Chair of the World Congress Committee for the World Federation of Athletic Training and Therapy (WFATT), where he helps shape global collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field. Pete holds a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Purdue University and a Master's in Teaching and Teacher Education from the University of Arizona. He has been a Board of Certification Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) since 2008. (CATA)Shannon Fleming is the Sr. Vice President of Credentialing for the BOC. Shannon began a career in athletic training as an Assistant Athletic Trainer at Nebraska Wesleyan University from August 1999 to May 2000. Educational credentials include a Master of Arts in Health and Physical Education/Fitness from Tennessee Technological University and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from Nebraska Wesleyan University. (BOC)Enda Whyte is an assistant professor in the School of Health and Human Performance and currently programme chair for the BSc in Athletic Therapy and Training at Dublin City University. Enda is the co-founder of the Centre for Injury Prevention and Performance in the School of Health and Human Performance. His research themes include determining risk factors for common musculoskeletal injuries related to physical activity and the subsequent development of injury prevention programmes which he has published widely on. (ARTI)

Send us a text with your feedback from this session! Modalities: Myth, Magic or Meritorious? Cindy Trowbridge, PhD, ATC, LAT, CSCSIn this episode, we reconnect with Cindy Trowbridge to discuss the validity and application of therapeutic modalities in rehab and performance.  Cindy was recently inducted into the Southwest Athletic Trainers' Association Hall of Fame. She is also the recipient of the 2022 NATA Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award. She currently works at UT-Arlington (since 2004) and has served in both the MSAT program and the Exercise Science Program. Cindy's expertise is in investigating the clinical effectiveness of therapeutic modalities and has received industry research funding in doing so. She has been involved with the USOC, National bobsled and skeleton teams, served on sport medicine teams for World University Games, the Beijing Paralympics and USA Basketball. https://www.uta.edu/academics/programs/athletic-training-ms 

As the host of this podcast, I have the opportunity to deep dive and explore the journeys of others, growing with each conversation. I don't often speak to what I'm up to; so, in the interest of the move up from pro to amateur sport, give this a listen, reach out to connect, and stay tuned...there's some pretty cool things percolating over here! Our spot is feature on Instagram @everest_trainingcentre for a bit more of a "live look in". Our host was the SPORTi Podcast, give them a follow too. In this episode ofThe SPORTi Podcast, host Pam explores Everest Academy, a private sports-focused school in Vaughan, Ontario, that blends elite athletic training with strong academics for students in grades 4-12.The academy supports multi-sport athletes, with a staff of former pros, strength coaches, therapists, and mental health experts, ensuring balanced development on and off the ice or field.Everest also prioritizes quality training over excessive workloads, helping young athletes advocate for themselves and build lifelong skills.Everest's new U18 Prep Model helps athletes train, study, and recover—all within the school day - reducing late-night practices and burnout.For parents seeking an alternative to traditional schools, Everest offers small class sizes, academic flexibility, and a holistic support system to help student-athletes thrive.Resources:https://www.everestacademy.com/For any comments, questions or feedback you can email us at SPORTicanada@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram: @thesportipodcast

Protect Ya' Neck (and brain)Dr Theo VersteeghIn this episode, we reconnect with Theo and catch up on the successes and direction of TopSpin Technologies Ltd. With an innovative approach and a training and therapy tool that is under-utilized in the applicative space, we discuss real world value of TopSpin 360, where and how it's being used and what the hangups are in adopting new and novel ways of treating and training in the sports space. Check us out. Check out Theo and TopSpin https://topspin360.com/how-it-works/ and be sure to send some feedback. Thank you being a part of our community. 

Thinking Globally: Recruiting Internationally and Identifying Partners for Clinical ExperiencesIn this episode, our panel discusses the international opportunities within our profession through the lens of collaborative partnerships and international experiences within academic institutions. We discuss common challenges, themes that resonate across the globe and how the Athletic Therapy/Training profession continues to erase borders through impactful relationships and opportunities. Panel: Dr. Aoife Burke is an Assistant Professor in the Athletic Training programme at Dublin City University, Ireland. She is currently acting as Chair and Clinical Education Coordinator at DCU, while serving as chair of the Accreditation Committee within Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy Ireland (ARTI). Dr. Valerie Herzog is the Chair of the Department of Athletic Training at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah. She also serves as the District 7 representative on the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Directors. Dr. Jim Mensch is the Athletic Training Program Director at the UNiversity of South Carolina, where he has served for the past 23 years. Coordinated by: Matt Lewis, Chair of WFATT Academic Institutions CommitteeHe is the Athletic Training Program Director at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.  FIRSTAR Therapy. You-Centric. FIRSTAR: Redefining the Performance Wellness continuum. A holistic approach to athlete care.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

WFATT Impact Award Winners Series, Part 5 of 5:Award Winner: Gal ZmoraGal is a certified sports therapist and athletic trainer, pursuing a rigorous academic path, completing a B.Sc. in Athletic Training/Sports Therapy with honors through a collaboration with the University of Texas at Arlington. He specializes in personal training, medical sports techniques, and sports rehabilitation. He has managed a physiotherapy department and led educational programs for athletes to date. His research focuses on the psycho-social well-being of wheelchair basketball players, reflecting his commitment to improving athletic care across all abilities.Gal currently directs content development for the Israeli Association of Athletic Training and Sports Rehabilitation (ISRAT), contributing to advancements in sports medicine.Nominator: Orbital HadarIs a seasoned Athletic Therapist renowned for her ability to empower clients to excel in their athletic pursuits. With diverse experience in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and athlete development, she brings a unique blend of expertise to my practice. She began with a Bachelor's degree in Athletic Therapy from Sheridan College Institute in Canada, honed skills with training in holistic Swedish and medical massage at Reidman College in Israel. At Kiryat Ono College, OritaI plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Sports Therapy in Israel by imparting knowledge to aspiring therapists and educating students in the clinic and on the field.  Support the Show.

WFATT Impact Award Winners Series, Part 4 of 5:Award Winner: Kerri DownerKerri has been the Head Athletic Therapist at Mount Royal University since 2018.  She has worked with football, hockey, rugby, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and field hockey teams at various universities in Ontario and Alberta since 2001Kerri also works part time as a Clinical Assistant at the Benson Concussion Institute, located in the Markin MacPhail Centre at Winsport.  Nominator: Mark Lafave, PhD, CAT (C)Mark is the current Program Coordinator in Athletic Therapy at Mount Royal University. He has been instrumental in the profession and in developing the design and development of the clinic and athletic therapy program at MRU.  Support the Show.

WFATT Impact Award Winners Series, Part 3 of 5:Award Winner: Kaori Tamura, PhD, ATCKaori is an Associate Professor and the Director of the Master of Science in Athletic Training at University of Hawai'i at Manoa. She is a BOC Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) and has completed a Doctor of Philosophy Master of Science while impacting the International vision of the profession of Athletic Training. Growing up in Japan, she moved stateside to study Athletic Training. As a Japanese speaker, she studied this in a non-native language in living out her passion of helping others. Kaori utilizes her lived experience in communicating and investing in the international growth of the profession. Nominator: Kumiko Hashida, PhD, ATC Kumiko is a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Kinesiology at University of Georgia, following the completion of her PhD in Education at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Support the show

WFATT Impact Award Winners Series, Part 2 of 5:Award Winner: Jim Mensch, PhD, ATCDr Mensch is Director of the Professional Athletic Training Program and teaches classes in the AT program and EXSC Department at the University of South Carolina. Mensch's research interests are in pediatric sports medicine and socialization of athletic training professionals into the workforce, specifically non-traditional settings. Dr. Mensch has several current projects related to sports medicine care and epidemiological research in youth sport athletes. Nominator: Zachary Winkelmann, Ph.D., SCAT, ATCDr. Winkelmann teaches within the professional and post-professional athletic training program. He uses simulation, standardized patients, and case-based learning to develop athletic trainers in his courses. Support the show

WFATT Impact Award Winners Series, Part 1 of 5:Award Winner: Rick Griffin Rick was named the Mariners Head Athletic Trainer in 1983, and served in that capacity for 35 years until 2016. He was then given the Title of Mariners Athletic Trainer Emeritus for the next three years, overseeing the medical aspects of the MLB draft for the Mariners until his retirement in 2019. - 2018: Awarded the Al “Moose” Clausen Community Service Award - 1999:  awarded the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society AwardRick has made 25 trips to Japan with MLB Teams and has been an advisor to Japanese teams and trainers in Japan over the last 3 decades. He has also served as a trainer at an All-Star game in each of the last 4 decades.A wealth of experience and knowledge, Rick continues to contribute to the AT profession globally through numerous channels. Nominators: Ron Porterfield Ron is entering his sixth year as Director of Player Health with the Los Angeles Dodgers after serving the previous twelve years as the Head Athletic Trainer for the Tampa Bay Rays, and three years as the Assistant Athletic Trainer before that. He is also the president elect of PBATS. Larry Starr Larry is the President - Starr Athletic Solutions and the lead ATC Injury Spotter with the NFL. He is well known for his vision, and the creation of, the entire sports medicine element of Nova Southeastern University athletics, embedding the concept of the Sports Medicine Interdisciplinary Team. He also served as the Head Athletic Trainer for the Florida Marlins from 1993-2001 and the Cincinnati Reds for 21 years prior to that. 

Where You AT? See. Go. Learn. Grow: Short Term International Opportunities (Part 3)The Athletic Training experience, internationally. Join the conversation with Meghan McKay and Rick Griffin.  We discuss the international opportunities of the AT profession through the experiences of these two highly-qualified and well-respected guests. Meghan has worked with the Wales Men's National Lacrosse Team and is currently a consultant with them. She is a Senior Athletic Trainer at Baylor College of Medicine, Head of Medical at Houston SaberCats Rugby, a founding franchise of Major League Rugby, and an Adjunct Faculty at Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania for the MAT program. She joined the NATA International Committee in 2017 and became the CATA Liaison in early 2021.Rick was named the Seattle Mariners Head Athletic Trainer in 1983 and served in that capacity for 35 years until 2016 he was given the Title of Mariners Athletic Trainer Emeritus for the next three years overseeing the medical aspects of the MLB draft for the Mariners until his retirement in 2019. He is deeply involved with international projects and progress through his work on the PBATS International Committeeand the NATA International Committee.This episode can also be found on “The NATA-Cast” feed wherever podcasts are found. Something like This is an exclusive sneak peek into another podcast I hosted with NATA called “Where You AT? which is a special 4-part series on “The NATA-Cast”. 

Dr Melissa CorsoCommunity & Championing Your PassionMelissa is a Sports Specialist Chiropractor and recently opened her own sports medicine clinic, THE HIVE Sports Medicine + Performance, which focuses on education, rehabilitation and performance training of young and developing athletes. Melissa is also a research associate at the Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research and is completing her PhD in Community, Population and Public Health at Ontario Tech University. Recently, she undertook organizing the RCCSS(C) conference in Toronto, ON, an annual education weekend for interdisciplinary collaboration and networking. 

Ali KershnerThe Power Of Choice Ali Kershner is a seasoned professional in both sport performance and business. As a director at Art of Coaching, she has played a pivotal role in shaping marketing, education, and mentorship initiatives with a focus on power dynamics, leadership, and human behavior.Prior to Art of Coaching, Ali was the Associate Sports Performance Coach for Stanford Women's Basketball, spent time at University of Kansas and played 4 years at Duke University on the women's soccer team, serving as Captain. www.artofcoaching.com/whatdrivesyou ali@artofcoaching.com@kersher.ali on Instagram

Where You AT? Athletic Training Around The Globe The Athletic Training experience, internationally. Join the conversation with Jenn Rizzo and Anto Felippo as they share the international lens, providing services on different continents, in South America and Asia. This episode can also be found on “The NATA-Cast” feed wherever podcasts are found. Something like This is an exclusive sneak peek into another podcast I hosted with NATA called “Where You AT? which is a special 4-part series on “The NATA-Cast”. 

Ben Sporer, PhD Facilitate, Integrate, Recalibrate OUTPUT You don't need to be an elite athlete to be at the top of your game. By understanding the dynamic relationship between your objectives and the actions required to achieve them, you can perform at the highest level in your profession— consistently, on demand, when it counts. If you've got your eyes locked on your outcome, you need to get your mind set on your output.In Output, Olympic physiologist and performance consultant Ben Sporer combines his scientific expertise with decades of experience in sport and business to simplify the strategies of high- performing athletes and how they can apply to anyone, in any field. By explaining the mechanics of the Core 4 performance factors and reframing the link between preparation, action, and purpose, Sporer reveals a performance solution that empowers you to prize output over outcome.Sustain high performance through what you can control: your output.Book released October 24, 2023Twitter: @Ben_Sporer (also search via LinkedIn)Instagram: @outputbook Website: www.output-book.com 

Session 133 (October 2023): Don't Wait For The EulogyGuest: Scott LivingstonA returning guest, a mentor, friend and colleague, Scott sits down to discuss gratitude, appreciation and authenticity in the performance space. Making room for real conversations isn't easy, working with people is tough. Knowing the Self allows us to better connect with others and Scott and I discuss these matters in this conversation. Join in. Join the community. 

Where You AT? Athletic Training Around The Globe This episode can also be found on “The NATA-Cast” feed wherever podcasts are found. Something like This is an exclusive sneak peek into another podcast I hosted with NATA called “Where You AT? which is a special 4-part series on “The NATA-Cast”. Guests: Rusty McKuneRusty is the Ambulatory Supervisor for the Sports Medicine Program at Nebraska Medicine.  He serves as the Chair of the BOC International Committee.  He is also the Past President for the Mid-America Athletic Trainers Association and the Governmental Affairs Chair for the Nebraska State Athletic Trainers Association.  He has been an NATA Member for 32 years. Alvaro Garcia-RomeroAlvaro is a MSAT Program Director at Camilo Jose Cela University in Madrid Spain, which is home to the First International Program Accredited by CAATE. He serves as Chair of the International Committee at CAATE. Also is Head of Medical and Performance Department at Watford Football Club in English Football League. Matt KutzMatt is a Clinical Professor at Florida International University in the Doctor of Athletic Training program. He serves as Chair of the NATA's International Committee and VP of WFATT. Matt is a Senior Associate Editor of the ATEJ. He has numerous awards and books, and is a 28+ year member of the NATA.This episode can also be found on “The NATA-Cast” feed wherever podcasts are found. Something like “This is an exclusive sneak peek into another podcast I hosted with NATA called “Where You AT? which is a special 4-part series on “The NATA-Cast”. Enjoy!”

Scott Livingston, CAT(C), CSCSCONTRIBUTE AND GROWScott is a Master Performance Coach and Reconditioning Professional. He has 35+ years of practice in the human performance industry, working in every conceivable performance environment. He lives by his life purpose: "To make connections, inspire reflection, challenge convention, and create change so that others may achieve their best."  He continues this purpose through his Leave Your Mark podcast, The LYM Life Lab and Reconditioning courses, including the latest, Neuroreconditioning. Be sure to check out Scotty's website and all of the amazing work he is doing, below:https://reconditioninghq.thinkific.com

ON THE BALL The Mental Side Of Sport Michael Lodewyks  Writer  |  Teacher  |  Coach  |  AthleteMichael Lodewyks is a writer, coach, teacher, and athlete. You might say his life "revolves around sport." He is also an avid meditator, which has taught him the power of the mind not only in sport, but in life. Because he believes the mind is so powerful, he recently wrote a book about the mental side of sport, called On the Ball. The book reflects on his experiences as a volleyball coach for over twenty-five years at a variety of levels, including high school, club, provincial team, and university. He has also spent a great deal of time teaching tennis. After completing a Masters of Education Degree in coaching studies in 2013, he began teaching kinesiology courses at the University of Winnipeg. He also taught motor learning for one year at the University of Manitoba, and biomechanics for one year at the University of British Columbia. When there's time, you'll find him playing tennis at the local courts where he lives in Vancouver. He lives with his partner, Angella Griffith, and their dog Rudy.www.michaellodewks.com @michaellodewyks

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv A monologue to drive forward, James Gardiner, Let's chAT podcast host. We grow. Together. If you're listening, let someone know. If you hear something that resonates, let us know. Our profession is one that fits in the healthcare space, globally, and the more we speak it into the universe, the more we grow into our belonging. Like, share, comment, post about it. We Grow. Together. Consult@firstartherapy.com@letschat.at @wfattofficial @firstar.therapy

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv Sarah Manspeaker, PhD, LAT, ATC, FNAP Cross Continental Collaboration As an associate professor at Duquesne University, Dr. Manspeaker advocates for inter professional collaboration with patient care and performance models. She is an active volunteer for the BOC, an associate editor for the Journal of Interprofessional Care and serves on the Editorial Board for AthleticTraining education.   Sarah's work also encompasses serving as the medical coordinator for the Special Olympics  Pennsylvania Winter Games where she aligns interprofessional care for athletes with intellectual disabilities. 

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv Avigail & Asaf, students at Ono Academic College in Israel The Future Is Here and It's Bright "Jump inside my sentence": defined as interrupting in order to add value to one's thoughts and conversation. These two capture the essence of the vision of a brand new profession in Israel, sharing their excitement, interactions and education through their lens. Workshops, presenters, handshakes and much more, Avigail and Asaf are creating Athletic Therapy's future right now in Israel.  

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv UT-Arlington and Ono Academic CollegeUTA: Adam Annaccone, Meredith Decker, Laura Kunkel & Cindy Trowbridge Ono: Ella Bean Building Bridges Right place, right time. A connection that is building cross-continental bridges in the Athletic Training/Therapy space. These two institutions have created a bond for students, sharing in research and the natural progression to support a global profession. And, the faculty members we sit down with here ooze with passion and the desire to make this happen! 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivKeith Webster, MA, LAT, ATC, CEAS Opening Doors...Ergonomically Keith is an NATA Hall of Fame Member and currently sits as the Chair of the NATA COPA Occupational Health Committee. We sit down to discuss the diverse role that ATCs are playing under Keith's watchful eye in the car industry, where he directs traffic in the well-being and health of workers at Toyota in the state of Kentucky. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivRene Revis-Shingles, President Board of Directors, BOCRusty McKune, Chair of The International Committee, BOCThe Global Stage The Board of Certification is a well-established  organization that guides and supports Athletic Trainers/Therapists and global associates in best practices in the profession. Rene and Rusty discuss their paths and the path of the profession, supporting Israel and other member delegates via the International Agreement.  

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv John Cayer, President, Mueller Sports Medicine Innovation, Collaboration, Connection Mueller Sports Medicine is the primary sponsor of WFATT. They offer an unmatched line of products that support the athlete in life and the practitioner in their trade. We sit down with Mueller president, John Cayer, and discuss what growth looks and feels like, the newest innovation and the support for the Athletic Training/Therapy profession. 

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv Jessica Wells, current Masters student and member of BASRaT (British Association Sport Rehabilitators and Trainers)An Experience Of A Lifetime Through the eyes of the student, Jessica sits down and discusses her research and her expectations on day one of WCXII and returns to share her experience from the event on its final day. 

World Congress XII: Tel Aviv Eric Fuchs, FNAP, ATC, AEMT, SMTC, CIDNAre You In Or Are You Out? A professor in the Athletic Training Education Program in the department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sports Science (PRESS) at Eastern Kentucky University. Discussing best care practices in managing acute dislocations, the value of the global stage and Eric's unique work place settings. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivSue Falsone and Rick GriffinClinical Art and The Beauty Of The MomentsSue is the Director of Movement and Return to Performance with the HoustonTexans in the NFL, the owner/founder of Structure and Function Education and Falsone Consulting. Her book, Bridging The Gap is a standard-setting resource that every practitioner should've their shelf.  Rick Spent 35 years in the Seattle Mariners organization and represents PBATS here at the World Congress.    We discuss pathways, vision, leaning into moments of growth and development in the professional space and much more with these two leaders. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivKathy Dieringer, NATA President#3Strong: Rapid Response, Spotlight on The ProfessionOn January 2, 2023, Damar Hamlin collapsed on field from a cardiac event. The Athletic Trainers on the sidelines initiated a response within seconds, saving his life. This profession is a global leader. Kathy captures the Athletic Training/ Therapy practices that make a difference in our discussion here. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivBrian Zeller, WFATT PresidentKathy Dieringer, NATA (USA) PresidentKirsten Kidd, CATA (CAN) PresidentHeng-Ju Lee, Taiwan Association PresidentShaking Hands With Experts A sit down with four of the leaders of our profession from across the globe. We discuss leadership in the AT space, growing the profession globally, the value of travel and in-person connection and more. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivAdam Annaccone, EdD, LAT, ATC, PES, CES Meet Three New People A Week  Dr Adam Annaccone is an Assistant Clinical Professor and directs the Standardized Patient Lab at UT-Arlington in the Athletic Training program. For over 16 years, Adam has worked in educational and clinical settings. In 2018, he on-boarded as a consultant for the newly formed Sports Therapy Academic Program at Ono Academic College in Tel Aviv. In 2020, was named to the Scientific Advisor Board for the National Academy of Sports Medicine.  Adam has worked in the NBA and has extensive experience as a performance professional. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivColin King, PhD., CAT(C)Every Journey Has Its StumblesColin sits on the Board of Directors for WFATT and is the Program Director of the newly CATA=Accredited Athletic Therapy program at Acadia University. His main interests include exploring the impact of innovative pedagogies and multimedia technology in athletic therapy education, as well as concussion education and knowledge mobilization. 

World Congress XII: Tel AvivHosted by ISRAT (Israel Association of Sport Rehabilitation & Athletic Therapy), our podcast will be bringing you sit-downs with speakers, guests and all of the need-to-know bits from WFATT 2023 World Congress. 

Session 117: An International Panel DiscussionTanya MarquezTanya has been a Certified Athletic Trainer since 1999.  She received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with an emphasis in Athletic Training from Ohio State University in 1999 and her Master of Science in Athletic Training from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2001. In 2013 Tanya became an inaugural member of the Illinois ATs Care Team and since 2015 has served as the chair. She serves as the Great Lakes Athletic Trainers Association (GLATA) ATs Committee Co-Chair and is the NATA ATs Care Commission's District XI representative. Tanya is also an Assisting Individuals in Crisis Instructor for the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF). Professionally, Tanya has worked in a variety of settings over the years, from Division I and III collegiate positions, to clinic outreach and high school positions and she has also held numerous PRN positions.  Currently, Tanya serves as the Alert Services Resource Center Manager and leads the development of continuing education resources for customers and Athletic Trainers across the country.Dr Siobhán O ConnorSiobhán  is an Associate Professor in the School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University and lectures in the BSc. Athletic Therapy and Training programme. Siobhán is a Certified Athletic Therapist (CAT) and member of Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy Ireland (ARTI), the governing body for Irish Certified Athletic Therapists.  She was the Vice President of Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy Ireland (ARTI) from its conception in 2009 until 2017 and played a key role in the development of ARTI.  Dr O'Connor has a keen interest in developing the athletic therapy profession internationally and currently serves as the Vice-President of WFATT. She teaches primarily in the area of injury prevention and clinical practice and is an active researcher and is co-director of the Centre for Injury Prevention and Performance and researches in the field of injury prevention/surveillance, clinical practice/education and mental health. Abby Jade RoyalAbby graduated in 2020 as a Sports Rehabilitator with a first class honours from the University of Bolton. While undertaking her degree, Abby volunteered at Rochdale AFC Development Centres and has progressed through the club since starting 4 seasons ago.Psychology has always been a strong love of Abby's and she works with athletes on a daily basis, she has found through her experience that both athletes and practitioners value psychology; She decided to advance her academic career by pursuing a Masters in Sport and Exercise Psychology.In 2022, Abby began studying towards a PGCE to gain insight into teaching methods, educational theory, and research. Abby has experience working in a range of areas professionally, including clinical and professional sports settings, as well as lecturing at the University of Bolton, where she completed her undergraduate studies. Abby is currently employed with Rochdale AFC EDS as a Sports Rehabilitator, Mental Performance Practitioner, and Sports Tutor.

Life Lessons From The Inside Ten minutes of truth with a 7 year-old that's been exposed to life in the world of Sports Performance and Athletic Therapy. Experiences gained, lessons learned and some pretty awesome people to share time and space with. We give a lot in our profession and sometimes home life suffers as a result; balance and facilitating integration of life in sport and home life takes work, too. 

Megan Pomarensky HOW CAN I BEST SUPPORT? A Certified Athletic Therapist, a Certified Functional Strength Coach, and a Certified Vinyasa Yoga Instructor, with a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Science. She is a published academic author, speaker, and international teacher. Over the past 9 years, Megan has built a successful private clinical practice working with clients from professional athletes looking to improve performance to older adults with chronic pain, and everyone in between. Her mission is to empower every client to better understand their body, get the most efficient and effective rehab and training, make informed decisions about their care, and break the chronic pain cycle. She also helps athletic therapists, trainers and physiotherapists get out of the textbooks, protocols and checklists for better client results, through continuing education courses, and clinical/business mentorship. IG/Twitter @meganpomarensky www.meganpomarensky.com

Dr. Theo Versteegh, PhDMitigating Risk Through Specific Tissue Demands A physiotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience in sports medicine and a published researcher in the field of neck pain, neck training and concussion risk mitigation. Theo is the inventor of the TopSpin360, the first patented multi-planar neck training device that strengthens the neck in a manner consistent with the science on how to prevent concussion and treat chronic neck pain.

Russell Gaither, Orlando City SC Sports Performance Specialist WHO WOULD YOU BE WITHOUT PEPPERONI?Russell Gaither is a performance specialist with Orlando City Soccer Club, of the MLS, where he focuses on the holistic development of players through nutrition, psychology, and strength and conditioning. Best known for his ability to develop young men and elite athletes, Russell is a purposeful leader who builds meaningful relationships that produce lasting results. 15 years immersed in U.S. elite soccer, including having represented U.S. Youth National Teams, played college soccer, coached at U.S. academy clubs and trained both young and elite athletes in multiple sports. Outside of football (soccer) Russell has enjoyed a 10 year career in the market place speaking more than 300 times at major conferences and events where he's focused on topics like leadership, character, purpose, organizational culture, and team development for college and businesses looking to form their people.Russell received his Masters in human performance from the University of Florida, and has multiple certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.  

Harrison Brown, PhD HeadCheck Health CEO and co-founderHarrison Brown, is an athlete with a background in contact sports and an interest in brain injury. In University, Harrison began to specialize in Neurophysiology, leading him to pursue Masters of Science and PhD studies in the University of British Columbia's Sensorimotor Physiology Lab. Supported by his thesis advisors and mentors, Dr. Jean-Sébastien Blouin, Dr. Gunter Siegmund, and Dr. Michael Koehle, Harrison was involved in a wide variety of concussion-related research. These included head impact monitoring, diagnostic accuracy of commonly used concussion tests, utility of baseline testing, and the identification of concussions through objective balance error measurement.

Dr. Jessie Oldham Dr. Jessie Oldham is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Dr. Oldham has a dual Bachelor of Science in Biological Science and Nutrition Science from North Carolina State University, a Master of Science in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a Doctorate in Applied Physiology from the University of Delaware and is an expert in the field of concussion research and application of knowledge on the subject. 

Research indicates children are most vulnerable to sexual abuse between the ages of seven and thirteen. Unfortunately, engaging, age-appropriate educational materials that teach children to recognize and prevent abuse are almost non-existent. Until now. "Spot a Spider" is a groundbreaking new training program started by Dr. Amy Saltzman, M.D, that teaches children, teens, and young adults how to protect themselves from all types of abuse: sneaky (covert) emotional abuse (also known as grooming), and obvious (overt) emotional, physical and sexual abuse.The "Spot a Spider" advisory board includes high profile judge, Rosemarie Aquilina, the judge in the trial of US gymnastics doctor and convicted abuser, Larry Nassar.

Rick Griffin, ATCTHERE'S A 'YES' AROUND THE CORNERIn 1983 Rick was named the Seattle Mariners Head Athletic Trainer and served in that capacity for 35 years until 2016. He was given the Title of Mariners Athletic Trainer Emeritus for the next three years overseeing the medical aspects of the MLB draft for the Mariners until his retirement in 2019. The Al “Moose” Clausen Community Service Award was conferred upon him in 2018. In 1999 he was awarded the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society Award. Rick has made 25 trips to Japan with MLB Teams and has been an advisor to Japanese teams and trainers in Japan over the last 3 decades. Hehas also served as a trainer at an All-Star game in each of the last 4 decades.

The World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsSession 108: Quick-hitters with current research in the field. WFATT poster presenters give us an overview of their work and where it will lead the Athletic Therapy profession. Growing  the profession around the globe as the WFATT World Congress serves to simulate further collaboration and support around the world. 8 of 8 recorded live from: WFATT World CongressGuests: Various poster presenters of original research

The World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsSession 107: Glen Bergeron and Jennifer Martins discuss Canada's Athletic Therapy profession and being on the global stage.  Growing  the profession around the globe as the WFATT World Congress serves to simulate further collaboration and support around the world. 7 of 8 recorded live from: WFATT World CongressGuests: Dr. Glen Bergeron - CATA Hall of Fame and past President of WFATT Jennifer Martins - Vice-President of WFATT 

The World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsSession 106: Dr Jessie Oldham discusses her work regarding recovery of function following concussion. Growing  the profession around the globe as the WFATT World Congress serves to simulate further collaboration and support around the world. 6 of 8 recorded live from: WFATT World CongressGuest: Dr. Jessie Oldham is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She has a dual Bachelor of Science in Biological Science and Nutrition Science from North Carolina State University, a Master of Science in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a Doctorate in Applied Physiology from the University of Delaware. 

The World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsSession 105: Dr Thomas Buckley discusses his contributions to the evolution of understanding concussion - Challenges & Consequences of Incomplete Recovery. Growing  the profession around the globe as the WFATT World Congress serves to simulate further collaboration and support around the world. 5 of 8 recorded live from: WFATT World CongressGuest: Dr. Thomas Buckley is an Associate Professor of Athletic Training in the Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology at the University of Delaware where he conducts Concussion related research and co-directs the University's involvement in the NCAA/DoD Grand Alliance CARE consortium.

The World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsSession 104: A sit down with international delegates from Israel and Greece. We discuss the growth of the profession around the globe as the WFATT World Congress serves to simulate further collaboration and support around the world. 4 of 8 recorded live from:WFATT World CongressGuests: Ella Been- Head of the Sports Therapy Department at Ono Academic College in Israel Shlomi Mordechai- GM of Israel Association of Athletic Therapists and Sport Rehabilitation Stavros Daouskas- Chairman of the Sports Rehabilitation Association in Greece

Let's chAT: an Athletic Therapy Podcast, the official podcast of WFATTThe World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsAttending her first conference, we sat down with Emma. She is a 2nd year Athletic Therapy student at Sheridan College and we discuss the valuable educational, collegial and mentorship opportunities we can create, together. 3 of 8 recorded live from:WFATT World Congress

Let's chAT: an Athletic Therapy Podcast, the official podcast of WFATTThe World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsA round table discussion with representatives from the voting associations. We discuss our profession and what the World Congress means on the global stage with world leaders in the field. Guests: Tim Hansen, AFATS- Armed Forces Athletic Trainers Society Lynn Allen and Sinead O'Keefe, ARTI- Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy - Ireland Ollie Coburn, BASRaT- British Association of Sport RehabilitatorsRick Griffin, PBATS- Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society  2 of 8 recorded live from:WFATT World Congress 

Let's chAT: an Athletic Therapy Podcast, the official podcast of WFATTThe World Federation of Athletic Training & Therapy is comprised of: 42 Member Associations | 12 Countries | 4 Continents | 50,000+ ATsA sit down with the Presidents: Brian Zeller, Kathy Dieringer and Tyler QuennellWe discuss our profession and what the World Congress means on the global stage with world leaders in the field. Guests: Brian Zeller, WFATT President, Director of the Master of Science in Athletic Training Program and the Chair of the Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences Department at Winona State University. Kathy Dieringer, NATA President (United States), She of more than 30 years of sports medicine experience in NCAA DI, DII and private multidisciplinary settingsTyler Quennell, CATA President (Canada)Currently holds roles at Sheridan College as a Clinical Supervisor and with the Toronto Rock in the NLL (who start the playoffs this week)1 of 8 recorded live from: WFATT World Congress