2025 Speakers
Speakers
Doug Adams, PT, DPT, SCS, OCS, CSCS
CEO at RunDNA
Dr. Doug Adams, a physical therapist and CEO of RunDNA, is driven by the mission of “100, Happy, Healthy”. His goal is to help people live to 100 years old while staying happy and healthy. RunDNA employs a movement-based approach to help individuals maximize their enjoyment in and benefit from the activities they love. With a career focused on improving walking and running gait, Doug has published extensively and spoken at international events, sharing his expertise in gait analysis. He has educated thousands of professionals on how to develop personalized plans for runners and walkers. Doug is also the creator of the Helix 3D, a portable 3D motion analysis system that categorizes walking and running gait, widely used by top professional runners, the Department of Defense, and commercial industries.
Molly Ahlemeier, CSCS
FIT Trainer at Spooner
Molly Ahlemeier began her career in the field as a physical therapy technician at Fischer Institute, now known as Spooner Sports Institute. She worked there for about three and a half years while pursuing her degree. Molly started her college education at Mesa Community College and later graduated from Arizona State University in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Wellness. During her time at ASU, she served as a teaching assistant for an Exercise Testing course, where she assisted students in learning how and when to utilize various tests on patients and clients.
Brian Bettner, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist & Clinic Director at Spooner
Brian grew up in Ahwatukee where he spent his time playing soccer, golf and just being outside. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science from NAU in 2017 where he spent his time exploring, hiking, and teaching group fitness classes such as boxing, spin, and TRX. After graduation he moved back to Phoenix where he attended NAUs DPT program at the Phoenix Biomedical Campus.
Molly Binetti, RSCC*D, CSCS
Director of Women’s Basketball Performance at University of South Carolina
Molly Binetti is the Director of Women’s Basketball Performance at the University of South Carolina. In her first six seasons, the program made a Sweet 16 appearance in 2019, finished the season unanimous #1 in 2020, and have secured four straight Final Four appearances from 2021-2024, including two National Championship victories.
Brook Choulet, MD
CEO of Choulet Performance Psychiatry
Dr. Brook Choulet, M.D., The Performance Psychiatrist™, is the founder and CEO of the Choulet Performance Psychiatry®, and President of the American Board of Sports and Performance Psychiatry, of which she is one of the seven founding members.
Veronika Campbell, PT, MPT, CNMP, CVTP, CSCS, NSC
Owner of Integrated Manual Physical Therapy
Veronika is the owner of Integrated Manual Physical Therapy (IMPT). She is a highly experienced manual physical therapist with over 25 years in practice. She founded the Arizona Integrative HealthCare Think Tank, a multidisciplinary practitioner group, in 2012. Over the years, she has earned multiple certifications, including as a strength and conditioning specialist, nutrition specialist, certified neural manipulation practitioner, and certified visceral techniques practitioner. In 2022, Veronika also became an international Barral Institute Instructor for Neural Manipulation.
Callie Davies, MD
Primary Care Physician – Sports Medicine at Mayo Clinic
Dr. Callie Davies is a dual board-certified physician in Emergency Medicine and Sports Medicine. She specializes in the care of active individuals of all ages and abilities. With expertise in ultrasound-guided procedures, non-surgical fracture management, sports injuries, and osteoarthritis care, she excels in the diagnosis and non-operative treatment of acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Cameron Davis, MD
Sports Medicine Physician at Arizona Sports Medicine Center
Dr. Cameron Davis graduated from Pacific University with a degree in biology and earned his medical degree at Oregon Health and Science University. He completed his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and Sports Medicine Fellowship training with Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. While in Cleveland, Dr. Davis had the opportunity to work with the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Monsters, Kent State University and Oberlin College. After finishing his training in 2022 he moved to Scottsdale, Arizona and entered private practice with Arizona Sports Medicine Center.
Jess Elis, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, COMT, CSCS, FAAOMPT
Founder of Rehab Code LLC
Jess has dedicated over a decade of working experience in the professional and elite level sport sector. His perspective of athletic care is eclectic and wide-ranging due to the many different career opportunities.
Shelli Escamilla, MA, ATC
Lead Athletic Trainer at Mesa Public Schools
Shelli Escamilla is the lead Athletic Trainer at Mesa Public Schools. Shelli has a background that includes six years of dedicated service at the high school level, and 10 years as a certified athletic trainer.
Sue Falsone, PT, DPT, MS, SCS, ATC, CSCS*D, COMT
Founder of Structure & Function Education
Sue hold the holds the distinction of being the first female head athletic trainer in any of the four major sports in the United States (MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA) and served as Head of Athletic Training and Sport Performance with US Soccer’s Men’s National Team.
Josh Funk, DPT
Founder and CEO of Rehab 2 Perform
Dr. Josh Funk is a lifelong athlete and Montgomery County native dedicated to advancing the fields of physical therapy and sports performance. His journey into physical therapy began during his collegiate lacrosse career at The Ohio State University, where he overcame a torn labrum and rotator cuff without surgery, igniting a passion for rehabilitation and movement optimization. Dr. Funk earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of Maryland-Baltimore and, in 2014, founded Rehab 2 Perform, a groundbreaking physical therapy and sports performance company.
Melody Hrubes, MD, CAQ
Physician at Hospital for Special Surgery
Dr. Hrubes currently serves as the Medical Director for the Radio City Rockettes, as a team physician for the United States Soccer Federation and has previously worked with United States Gymnastics. She has experience with broad-based musculoskeletal injuries with particular interest in injury prevention and biomechanical rehabilitation in athletes, performing artists, endurance sports, and female athletes.
Karen Kelly, Ph.D
Research Physiologist at Naval Health Research Center
Dr. Karen Kelly is a research physiologist with a background in exercise, metabolic, and integrative physiology with the Warfighter Performance Department at the Naval Health Research Center (NHRC). NHRC conducts research to optimize and sustain the health, performance, resilience, and readiness of U.S. service members.
Cloe Klaus, M.SC., LAT, ATC
Assistant Athletic Trainer at University of Notre Dame
Cloe Klaus is an accomplished athletic trainer currently serving the University of Notre Dame (UND) Women’s Soccer team. Emphasizing holistic, inclusive care, they leverage data-driven strategies to empower athletes and enhance team success. Since joining UND in 2021, Cloe has helped implement innovations like thermography screening, force-plate fatigue monitoring, and isokinetic strength testing for the team. Collaborating with strength and conditioning staff, they analyze wearable GPS data to manage training loads, track performance trends, and refine return-to-play protocols.
Danielle LaFata, MA, RD, CSSD, CLT
Director of Nutrition for BYU Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs at BYU Athletics
Danielle is a highly accomplished Registered Dietitian with a robust educational background, holding a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in Nutrition and Food Science from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics and a Certified LEAP Therapist specializing in food sensitivities. Currently, she is advancing her expertise with a Certificate of Training in Integrative and Functional Nutrition.
Adam Loiacono, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS
Owner and Performance Coach at Loiacono Performance Therapy
Adam Loiacono has over 15 years of experience providing top-tier rehabilitation and performance training to professional & youth athletes. His career includes reaching the NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns in 2021 and the MLS Cup with the New England Revolution in 2014.
Matt Midkiff PT, DPT, CSCS, CAFS, FDN2, USSF “B”
Director & Owner Gilbert-Mesa at Foothills Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy
Matt Midkiff PT, DPT, CSCS, CAFS, FDN2, USSF “B” was a youth soccer player in Asheville, NC and high school 4 time all-state player in North Carolina and then Columbia, SC. He was recruited to play soccer collegiately at Westmont College in Santa Barbera, CA. He graduated from AT Still University in 2002, with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. During graduate school, he had started coaching competitive club soccer at the Sereno Soccer Club while also running their sport performance and injury prevention program. He has continued coaching for the last 28 years where his coaching accomplishments include 16 state championships and participating in the development of a myriad of college, pro, and even national team players.
Chuck Peterson, MD
Physician at Arizona Sports Medicine Center, Abrazo Health
Dr. Peterson graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in honors history, and earned his medical degree at Northwestern University in Chicago. He completed his residency in family medicine at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale and a fellowship in sports medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin. He entered private practice in 2002, and was one of the original founders of Arizona Sports Medicine in 2004. He is board-certified in sports medicine and family medicine. Dr. Peterson is a team physician for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Arizona Cardinals. He was also the Head Sports Medicine Team Physician for the Phoenix Suns for the 2019-2020 season, and was in “The Bubble” with the team in Orlando. He was named a “Top Doc” by PHOENIX Magazine in sports medicine for 2010, 2011 and every year since 2014.
Brian Schmitz, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, CSCS
Police Officer & Physical Therapist
Brian C. Schmitz, PT, DPT, is a seasoned physical therapist with over 15 years of experience in orthopedic and manual therapy. Graduating with a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University in 2009, Brian has since advanced his clinical expertise, becoming a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy in 2013 and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists in 2015. His academic accomplishments also include a Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Therapy from Regis University and ongoing contributions as an adjunct faculty member at Northern Arizona University, where he has taught musculoskeletal therapeutics and professional development courses since 2013.
Valerie Smith-Hale, Ph.D., CSCS*D
Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at University of Notre Dame
Dr. Valerie Georgia Smith-Hale is an accomplished exercise physiologist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS*D). She holds a Ph.D. in Exercise and Sport Science with a concentration in Exercise Physiology from Wayne State University, along with a Master’s in Exercise Science from Central Michigan University.
Darren Treasure, Ph.D
Professor in Sport Psychology & Mental Performance Consultant
A world-recognized expert in the field of sport psychology, Darren has had the opportunity to provide mental performance support for multiple Olympic and World Champions, athletes who have won the Super Bowl, played in the NBA Finals, English Premier League, Bundesliga, FIFA men’s World Cup, NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, Nike, and members of the World Cup & Olympic Gold Medal winning United States Women’s National Soccer Team. At the collegiate level he has worked with 16 NCAA Championship winning teams, athletes who have won over 50 individual titles, and provided performance support for high profile coaches and athletic directors.
Alix Ungaretti, PT, DPT, CSCS
Physical Therapist at Spooner
Alix Ungaretti is a physical therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist at Spooner. Alix earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Midwestern University and throughout her education has demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based care and high standards in patient outcomes. She is certified in Primal Reflex Release Technique, dry needling, and athletic training (BOC), and was Co-Founder of Back Attack Prevention Program for Veterans showcasing her versatile skill set in manual therapy and athletic care.
Lauren Walsh, MS, AT, CSCS
Clinical Athletic Trainer at Barrow Neurological Institute’s Brain Injury and Sports Neurology Center
Lauren K. Walsh is the Clinical Athletic Trainer for Barrow Neurological Institute’s Brain Injury and Sports Neurology Center in Phoenix, Arizona. She also serves as Program Manager for the Barrow Concussion Network, a robust community outreach program serving athletes, families, coaches, and concussion professionals. Lauren is dedicated to advancing concussion care and health equity by providing education focused on injury prevention and management.
Gary Waslewski, MD
Director of Sports Medicine at Arizona Sports Medicine Center, Abrazo Health
Dr. Waslewski is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon with a CAQ in Sports Medicine who is fellowship trained in surgical reconstruction of the throwing elbow and shoulder as well as complex sports knee reconstruction surgery. He is currently in his 13th year as Head Team Physician/Orthopedic Surgeon for the NFL Arizona Cardinals. Dr. Waslewski took over duties as the Head Team Physician for the MLB Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015 after 10 years serving as orthopedic consultant for the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants. He earned three World Series rings for his work with the San Francisco Giants. He served as Head Team Physician for the NBA Phoenix Suns 2019-2020 season. He was Head Team Physician for the NHL Arizona Coyotes hockey team for 16 years and was a traveling team physician for USA Hockey, covering the IIHF World Championships in Bern/Zurich Switzerland in 2009 and the 2007 TUI Deutschland Cup in Cologne/Hannover Germany.
Doug Adams, PT, DPT, SCS, OCS, CSCS
CEO at RunDNA
Education:
DPT – University of Deleware
MBA in Organizational Leadership – University of Deleware
About:
Dr. Doug Adams, a physical therapist and CEO of RunDNA, is driven by the mission of “100, Happy, Healthy”. His goal is to help people live to 100 years old while staying happy and healthy. RunDNA employs a movement-based approach to help individuals maximize their enjoyment in and benefit from the activities they love. With a career focused on improving walking and running gait, Doug has published extensively and spoken at international events, sharing his expertise in gait analysis. He has educated thousands of professionals on how to develop personalized plans for runners and walkers. Doug is also the creator of the Helix 3D, a portable 3D motion analysis system that categorizes walking and running gait, widely used by top professional runners, the Department of Defense, and commercial industries.
Molly Ahlemeier, CSCS
FIT Trainer at Spooner
Education:
BS in Exercise and Wellness – Arizona State University
About:
Molly Ahlemeier began her career in the field as a physical therapy technician at Fischer Institute, now known as Spooner Sports Institute. She worked there for about three and a half years while pursuing her degree. Molly started her college education at Mesa Community College and later graduated from Arizona State University in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Wellness. During her time at ASU, she served as a teaching assistant for an Exercise Testing course, where she assisted students in learning how and when to utilize various tests on patients and clients.
After graduating, Molly realized she wanted to transition from physical therapy to the strength and conditioning field. She has always been passionate about helping people reach their goals and believes it is crucial for individuals to move in a way that they enjoy, whether in the gym or through a hobby outside of it. Molly earned her CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) certification in April 2021 and began her career in training. Over the years, she has gained experience working with athletes of all ages and levels, from youth to professional, as well as the general population.
In her free time, Molly enjoys any activity that involves movement and being outdoors. Her hobbies include playing tennis and basketball, hiking, kayaking, biking, roller-skating, and snowboarding. She also enjoys watching all sports, with football being her favorite.
Brian Bettner, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist & Clinic Director at Spooner
Education:
DPT – Northern Arizona University
BS in Exercise Science – Northern Arizona University
DN Cert through Structure and Function
About:
Brian grew up in Ahwatukee where he spent his time playing soccer, golf and just being outside. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science from NAU in 2017 where he spent his time exploring, hiking, and teaching group fitness classes such as boxing, spin, and TRX. After graduation he moved back to Phoenix where he attended NAUs DPT program at the Phoenix Biomedical Campus. During his clinical rotations he gained a passion for treating outpatient orthopedics and using manual skills in combination with functional movement rehab. In his last rotation at the Spooner Ahwatukee location he learned a lot about what it means to be a part of the Spooner Family and fell in love with our overall beliefs of patient care. He is excited to treat all patient populations and create patient specific plans to get people back to doing what they love. As a member of the Spooner Sports Medicine Team, he enjoys treating all athletes as well as being a part of the RMHS Sports Medicine and Strength Staff.
Molly Binetti, RSCC*D, CSCS
Director of Women’s Basketball Performance at University of South Carolina
Education:
MS – University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
BS in Exercise Science – Marquette University
About:
Molly Binetti is the Director of Women’s Basketball Performance at the University of South Carolina. In her first six seasons, the program made a Sweet 16 appearance in 2019, finished the season unanimous #1 in 2020, and have secured four straight Final Four appearances from 2021-2024, including two National Championship victories. Prior to her arrival in Columbia in 2018, Molly served four years at the University of Louisville and one year at Purdue University coaching a diverse range of athletes from 11 different sports. She is a graduate of Marquette University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Physiology, and the University of Minnesota where she obtained a Master of Education degree in Applied Kinesiology. The Eau Claire, WI native is a member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association and Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association, where she holds the CSCS and RSCC*D, and SCCC certifications, respectively. She has contributed to two publications, both in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, focused on the mechanical and physical determinants of elite women’s basketball players. Her passion lies in holistic player development.
Veronika Campbell, PT, MPT, CNMP, CVTP, CSCS, NSC
Owner of Integrated Manual Physical Therapy
Education:
MPT – Wayne State University
BS – Eastern Michigan University
About:
Veronika is the owner of Integrated Manual Physical Therapy (IMPT). She is a highly experienced manual physical therapist with over 25 years in practice. She founded the Arizona Integrative HealthCare Think Tank, a multidisciplinary practitioner group, in 2012. Over the years, she has earned multiple certifications, including as a strength and conditioning specialist, nutrition specialist, certified neural manipulation practitioner, and certified visceral techniques practitioner. In 2022, Veronika also became an international Barral Institute Instructor for Neural Manipulation.
Her advanced training spans a wide array of disciplines within the Barral osteopathic approach, focusing on visceral, vascular, neural, brain, neuroendocrine, vagus nerve, fascial crossroads, pediatrics, lymph, and manual articular manipulation. Veronika’s diverse patient care experience includes working with individuals suffering from complex chronic medical conditions, as well as helping professional athletes improve their performance. She has successfully treated athletes with intricate cases in collaboration with their trainers and has delivered presentations on neural manipulation for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Beyond her clinical work, Veronika has taught as adjunct faculty at both Midwestern University and Franklin Pierce University. She is also an active lecturer, sharing her expertise at professional conferences and community events.
Brook Choulet, MD
CEO of Choulet Performance Psychiatry
Education:
MD – University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Medicine
About:
Dr. Brook Choulet, M.D., The Performance Psychiatrist™, is the founder and CEO of the Choulet Performance Psychiatry®, and President of the American Board of Sports and Performance Psychiatry, of which she is one of the seven founding members.
With a focus on concierge Performance Psychiatry®, Dr. Choulet guides professionals, athletes, and their families towards unparalleled mental health and performance optimization by offering bespoke mental health care services for both adolescent and adult patients.
She holds a Certificate of Additional Training in Sports Psychiatry from the International Society for Sports Psychiatry (ISSP) and is a preferred provider on the NBPA, NFLPA and MLBPA’s Mental Health Directories. Dr. Choulet’s expertise has been pivotal in shaping mental resilience in sports at its highest level, and she worked for two seasons as a Consulting Team Psychiatrist for the NBA Phoenix Suns and WNBA Phoenix Mercury.
Dr. Choulet is a regular contributor to Forbes SportsMoney and is a Forbes Health Advisory Board member who reviews and consults on Forbes Health articles. She also contributes her expertise to the American Psychiatric Association’s publications and Psychology Today’s Sports & Performance Psychiatry column. She also provides expert advice each month to local Arizona publications, including Paradise Valley City Lifestyle Magazine, Stroll Biltmore, Stroll Desert Mountain, and Stroll Paradise Valley, as part of her commitment to cultivating the mental health and well-being of her local community.
Callie Davies, MD
Primary Care Physician – Sports Medicine at Mayo Clinic
Education:
MD – University of Arizona College of Medicine
BS in Physiology – University of Arizona
About:
Callie graduated with a B.S. in Physiology with a minor in Spanish from the University of Arizona. While attending the University of Arizona College of Medicine, she worked in underserved communities across the state, earning her distinctions in Rural Health and Community Service. She was also honored with the prestigious Douglas Lindsey Excellence in Emergency Medicine Award.
Her postgraduate training includes an Emergency Medicine residency at Maricopa Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona, followed by a Sports Medicine fellowship at Banner University Medical Center Phoenix. During her fellowship, she served as a team physician for Grand Canyon University. Callie has since expanded her role as a team physician for Arizona State University, caring for over 700 student-athletes, and supporting athletic programs at Park University, Benedictine University, and Arizona Christian University.
Callie has provided medical care at high-profile events, including the 2022 Fiesta Bowl, triathlons, marathons, and pre-participation physicals. She has also worked as a consulting event physician for organizations such as AT Direct Sports Medicine and the Canyon Athletic Association. Her commitment to advancing sports medicine includes extensive training in musculoskeletal ultrasound techniques through Modern Sports Medicine and Advanced Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Center.
Beyond her clinical work, Callie is a certified medical examiner for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and holds certifications in Wilderness Medicine, Hyperbaric Medicine, and Wound Care. Her accolades include being named a 2023 Top Doc in Sports Medicine by Phoenix Magazine and earning a finalist position in Banner’s High-Value Idea Competition for her innovative ultrasound-guided procedure app concept.
Callie is an active member of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine and the Arizona College of Emergency Physicians. With her holistic approach to care, she remains passionate about helping individuals of all abilities return to the activities they love.
Cameron Davis, MD
Sports Medicine Physician at Arizona Sports Medicine Center
Education:
MD – Oregon Health and Science University
BS in Biology – Pacific University
About:
Dr. Cameron Davis graduated from Pacific University with a degree in biology and earned his medical degree at Oregon Health and Science University. He completed his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and Sports Medicine Fellowship training with Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. While in Cleveland, Dr. Davis had the opportunity to work with the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Monsters, Kent State University and Oberlin College. After finishing his training in 2022 he moved to Scottsdale, Arizona and entered private practice with Arizona Sports Medicine Center. Today, Dr. Davis serves a team physician with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, Scottsdale Community College and has consulted with the Nike Union Athletic Club and USA Basketball.
Jess Elis, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, COMT, CSCS, FAAOMPT
Founder of Rehab Code LLC
Education:
Ph.D – Concordia University of Chicago
DPT – University of North Dakota
About:
Jess Elis was born and raised in North Dakota and graduated from University of North Dakota in 2009 with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He furthered his education by completing a 3-year post-doctorate orthopedic manual physical therapy fellowship from Evidence In Motion (EIM) in 2015. Furthermore, he’s finishing up his PhD in Leadership in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and finalizing his dissertation on the Bioethics of Wearable Technology within the NBA.
Jess has dedicated over a decade of working experience in the professional and elite level sport sector. His perspective of athletic care is eclectic and wide-ranging due to the many different career opportunities. Jess held the leadership role of Director of Player Health and Performance for the Portland Trail Blazers for 5 seasons (2017-2022). In this role, he managed all aspects of human performance, medical services, physician consultations, and was the direct medical liaison to upper management, coaching, and agency. During his tenure, the team was statistically ranked the 2nd healthiest team in the league and the team made it to the Western Conference playoffs 4 out of the 5 seasons. Prior to the Blazers, he held the position of Director of Performance Physical Therapy for EXOS and managed the staffing of the 5 legacy facilities. Additionally, he has worked in different consulting and concierge roles which include professional tennis, China Olympics, and different sport agency groups.
After 5 years as a partner in Phoenix Manual Therapy, Jess has started his own continuing education company, Rehab Code, which focuses on sports rehabilitation, manual therapy, and clinical reasoning. Additionally, he also owns Confirmed Medical which is a medical and rehab consulting company tailored to professional athletes. Jess currently lives in Scottsdale with his wife (MicKallyn) and his 2 sons (Ari-4, Tenneyson-2).
Shelli Escamilla, MA, ATC
Lead Athletic Trainer at Mesa Public Schools
Education:
MS – New Mexico State University
BS in Athletic Training – Northern Arizona University
About:
Shelli Escamilla is the lead Athletic Trainer at Mesa Public Schools. Shelli has a background that includes six years of dedicated service at the high school level, and 10 years as a certified athletic trainer.
Before her current position, Shelli served as the Head Athletic Trainer at Red Mountain High School. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training from Northern Arizona University (NAU), followed by a Master’s degree from New Mexico State University (NMSU). During her time at NMSU, Shelli gained valuable experience working with Women’s Soccer and Women’s Swim and Dive teams.
In addition to her role at Mesa Public Schools, Shelli is an At-Large Board Member for the Arizona Athletic Trainers’ Association (AZATA), where she contributes to the advancement of the profession and supports fellow athletic trainers across the state.
She believes in the valuable relationship between PTs and ATs, and is dedicated to expanding the relationship between the two professions.
Josh Funk, DPT
Founder and CEO of Rehab 2 Perform
Education:
DPT – University of Maryland Baltimore
BS in Health Sciences – Ohio State University
About:
Dr. Josh Funk is a lifelong athlete and Montgomery County native dedicated to advancing the fields of physical therapy and sports performance. His journey into physical therapy began during his collegiate lacrosse career at The Ohio State University, where he overcame a torn labrum and rotator cuff without surgery, igniting a passion for rehabilitation and movement optimization. Dr. Funk earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from the University of Maryland-Baltimore and, in 2014, founded Rehab 2 Perform, a groundbreaking physical therapy and sports performance company.
Driven by innovation and excellence, Dr. Funk has positioned Rehab 2 Perform as a leader in healthcare. He has completed prestigious business programs, including the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) accelerators, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, and the Birthing of Giants Fellowship, to enhance his leadership and operational strategies. His vision for Rehab 2 Perform focuses on progressive business practices, strategic growth, and clinical excellence.
An active member of the DMV community, Dr. Funk continually gives back through business initiatives, community outreach, and education. His commitment to ensuring that clients and staff reach their full potential underscores his dedication to both his profession and his community.
Sue Falsone, PT, DPT, MS, SCS, ATC, CSCS*D, COMT
Founder of Structure & Function Education
Education:
MS – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
BS – Daemen College
About:
Born in Buffalo, NY, Sue received a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from Daemen College in Amherst, New York. She continued her education by earning a master’s degree in human movement science, with a concentration in sports medicine, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Sue has presented at state, national and international level conferences in areas focusing on dry needling, pillar strength, integration of physical therapy and performance training, and comprehensive kinetic chain assessment and rehabilitation. She’s a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy (SCS), a certified athletic trainer (ATC), certified orthopedic manual therapist for the spine (COMT), a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT- 200) through Yoga Alliance.
Sue worked at Athletes’ Performance for 13 years, last serving as the Vice President of Performance Physical Therapy and Team Sport. She worked with the Los Angeles Dodgers for 6 years, last serving as head athletic trainer and physical therapist. She holds the distinction of being the first female head athletic trainer in any of the four major sports in the United States (MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA) and served as Head of Athletic Training and Sport Performance with US Soccer’s Men’s National Team. She was also named a Distinguished Alumni at Daemen College and has been inducted into her high school’s Athletic Hall of Fame (Kenmore West).
She is the owner and founder of Structure & Function Education, a company dedicated to educating healthcare professionals in dry needling, as well as, how to clinically Bridge the Gap from Rehab to Performance and has authored a book by the same name. Her philosophy includes looking at the athlete as a whole person, working with the entire body to create an optimal environment for healing and performance training.
Sue currently offers consulting for a variety of organizations in the NBA, MLB and NFL, and continues to work one-on-one with athletes. Customized courses and business advisory are available including sports medicine department organization, physical therapy and movement evaluation and restoration.
Melody Hrubes, MD, CAQ
Physician at Hospital for Special Surgery
Education:
DPT – University of Illinois College of Medicine
BS – University of Illinois College of Medicine
About:
Dr. Hrubes is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation as well as Sports Medicine and is the Director of our Primary Care Sports Division for the New York region. She currently serves as the Medical Director for the Radio City Rockettes, as a team physician for the United States Soccer Federation and has previously worked with United States Gymnastics. She has experience with broad-based musculoskeletal injuries with particular interest in injury prevention and biomechanical rehabilitation in athletes, performing artists, endurance sports, and female athletes. She specializes in ultrasound-guided procedures, regenerative medicine, and electrodiagnostic medicine.
Dr. Hrubes has worked with multiple dance and theater companies and is on the board of the Performing Arts Medicine Association. She is also an active member and serves on committees of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, American College of Sports Medicine, International Association for Dance Medicine, and American Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Dr. Hrubes prefers to take a holistic approach to injury treatment and performance optimization. She incorporates the patient’s function and priorities when creating a multi-faceted treatment plan.
Karen Kelly, Ph.D
Research Physiologist at Naval Health Research Center
Education:
Ph.D Philosophy, Kinesiology & Exercise Science – University of Southern California
MS in Exercise Physiology – San Diego State University
About:
Dr. Karen Kelly is a research physiologist with a background in exercise, metabolic, and integrative physiology with the Warfighter Performance Department at the Naval Health Research Center (NHRC). NHRC conducts research to optimize and sustain the health, performance, resilience, and readiness of U.S. service members.
Dr. Kelly has been with NHRC since 2010 as the head of the Applied Translational Exercise and Metabolic Physiology Team within the Warfighter Performance Department. Her research focuses on undersea human performance; metabolic and physiological adaptations in extreme environments; stress physiology; physical standards and requirements for ground combat military occupational specialties; musculoskeletal injury risk and prevention; and has recently engage in a large-scale collaboration related to fatigue risk management in USMC Aviation community.
Dr. Kelly and her staff of physiologists, engineers, statisticians, and cognitive psychologists specialize in field research. By adapting traditional laboratory practices to a field setting, she is able to provide operationally relevant feedback and information to leadership and add to the scientific body of knowledge. Before coming to NHRC, Dr. Kelly studied obesity related diseases and was involved in numerous clinical trials at the Cleveland Clinic.
Dr. Kelly received her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of California San Diego, her master’s degree in exercise physiology from San Diego State University, and her doctoral degree in kinesiology from the University of Southern California. She had a dual appointment in pathobiology and nutrition during her three year post-doctoral fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic.
Cloe Klaus, M.SC., LAT, ATC
Assistant Athletic Trainer at University of Notre Dame
Education:
M.Sc. Kinesiology – Western University
BS in Athletic Training & BS in Psychology – Lees-McRae College
About:
Cloe Klaus is an accomplished athletic trainer currently serving the University of Notre Dame (UND) Women’s Soccer team. Emphasizing holistic, inclusive care, they leverage data-driven strategies to empower athletes and enhance team success. Since joining UND in 2021, Cloe has helped implement innovations like thermography screening, force-plate fatigue monitoring, and isokinetic strength testing for the team. Collaborating with strength and conditioning staff, they analyze wearable GPS data to manage training loads, track performance trends, and refine return-to-play protocols.
Committed to advancing athletic training, Cloe presents at regional and national conferences on injury prevention and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports medicine. They are a recipient of multiple awards, including the Kentucky Collegiate Athletic Trainer of the Year honor, and actively serve on LGBTQ+ and diversity committees within the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA). Cloe’s vision bridges research and practice, inspiring athletes and professionals alike to adopt innovative, inclusive, and evidence-based approaches to sports medicine.
Danielle LaFata, MA, RD, CSSD, CLT
Director of Nutrition for BYU Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs at BYU Athletics
Education:
MS in Nutrition & Food Science – Wayne State University
BS in Dietetics – Wayne State University
About:
Danielle is a highly accomplished Registered Dietitian with a robust educational background, holding a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in Nutrition and Food Science from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics and a Certified LEAP Therapist specializing in food sensitivities. Currently, she is advancing her expertise with a Certificate of Training in Integrative and Functional Nutrition.
Danielle was recently appointed Director of Performance Nutrition for Brigham Young University’s Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams. Before this, she served four seasons with the Phoenix Suns and Mercury Basketball teams, contributing to the Suns’ Western Conference Championship run in 2021. Her diverse career in sports nutrition includes eight years at EXOS (formerly Athletes’ Performance, Inc.), six seasons with the San Francisco Giants during their 2012 and 2014 World Series championships, and three years with the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team, traveling with them to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Danielle’s experience also spans work with the Arizona Cardinals and Coyotes, various military groups, youth athletes, and high performers. She has collaborated virtually with club and high school teams through My Sport Dietitian and spent two years as a clinical consultant for SpectraCell Laboratories, helping practitioners interpret micronutrient testing results.
When she’s not traveling or supporting her teams, Danielle enjoys staying active with pickleball, tennis, golf, mountain biking, and exploring Arizona’s hiking trails.
Adam Loiacono, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS
Owner and Performance Coach at Loiacono Performance Therapy
Education:
DPT – Springfield College
BS in Kinesiology and Exercise Science – University of Maine
About:
Adam Loiacono has over 15 years of experience providing top-tier rehabilitation and performance training to professional & youth athletes. His career includes reaching the NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns in 2021 and the MLS Cup with the New England Revolution in 2014. Adam is a distinguished member of an elite group of physical therapists, holding the prestigious board certification as a Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS) through the American Physical Therapy Association—a credential achieved by only 10% of physical therapists in the United States. He is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach through the National Strength & Conditioning Association.
Adam’s expertise has been recognized by notable media outlets such as Forbes.com, Arizona’s CW7 television network, and the world-renowned PhysioNetwork.com, among others.
Chuck Peterson, MD
Physician at Arizona Sports Medicine Center, Abrazo Health
Education:
MD – Northwestern University Medical School
BA – Brigham Young University
Affiliations:
American Academy of Family Physicians
Arizona Academy of Family Physicians
American College of Sports Medicine
American Medical Society for Sports Medicine
NBA Team Physicians Association
Wilderness Medical Society
About:
Dr. Peterson graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in honors history, and earned his medical degree at Northwestern University in Chicago. He completed his residency in family medicine at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale and a fellowship in sports medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin. He entered private practice in 2002, and was one of the original founders of Arizona Sports Medicine in 2004. He is board-certified in sports medicine and family medicine. Dr. Peterson is a team physician for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Arizona Cardinals. He was also the Head Sports Medicine Team Physician for the Phoenix Suns for the 2019-2020 season, and was in “The Bubble” with the team in Orlando. He was named a “Top Doc” by PHOENIX Magazine in sports medicine for 2010, 2011 and every year since 2014.
Brian Schmitz, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, CSCS
Police Officer & Physical Therapist
Education:
DPT – Northern Arizona University
BS in Exercise Science – Northern Arizona University
About:
Brian Schmitz, PT, DPT, is a seasoned physical therapist with over 15 years of experience in orthopedic and manual therapy. Graduating with a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University in 2009, Brian has since advanced his clinical expertise, becoming a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy in 2013 and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists in 2015. His academic accomplishments also include a Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Therapy from Regis University and ongoing contributions as an adjunct faculty member at Northern Arizona University, where he has taught musculoskeletal therapeutics and professional development courses since 2013.
Brian’s professional journey has been marked by his commitment to blending hands-on care with leadership roles. He served as a managing partner at Summit Health and Fitness in Flagstaff for over a decade, guiding the facility through successful operations and expansions. His clinical work spans a diverse array of settings, from outpatient orthopedic care at DeRosa Physical Therapy to acute inpatient rehabilitation at Banner Baywood Hospital. With his deep-rooted interest in functional rehabilitation, Brian’s experiences range from treating complex orthopedic cases to providing rehabilitative care to professional athletes and active individuals.
In addition to his clinical expertise, Brian has held several leadership roles, including serving as President of the Arizona Physical Therapy Association. He coaches through Forging Youth Resilience, teaching weightlifting to youths at the Coconino County Juvenile Detention Center. Currently, Brian works as a police officer at Northern Arizona University and continues to offer part-time physical therapy services.
Valerie Smith-Hale, Ph.D., CSCS*D
Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at University of Notre Dame
Education:
Ph.D. Exercise and Sport Science – Wayne State University
Masters of Science in Exercise Science – Central Michigan University
BA in Exercise Science – Adrian College
About:
Dr. Valerie Georgia Smith-Hale is an accomplished exercise physiologist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS*D). She holds a Ph.D. in Exercise and Sport Science with a concentration in Exercise Physiology from Wayne State University, along with a Master’s in Exercise Science from Central Michigan University.
Currently serving as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Notre Dame, Dr. Smith-Hale applies her extensive expertise to enhance athletic performance through individualized training and conditioning programs. Her academic background is complemented by her teaching experience in Exercise Physiology, where she has led both lecture and lab courses, as well as courses in Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription, equipping students with critical skills in physiological evaluation and personalized exercise programming.
Dr. Smith-Hale’s dedication to research-informed practice and education has positioned her as a respected figure in exercise science, fostering the development of both athletes and future professionals in the field.
Alix Ungaretti, PT, DPT, CSCS
Physical Therapist at Spooner
Education:
DPT – Midwestern University
BS in Athletic Training – University of Montana
About:
Alix Ungaretti is a physical therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist at Spooner. Alix earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Midwestern University and throughout her education has demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based care and high standards in patient outcomes. She is certified in Primal Reflex Release Technique, dry needling, and athletic training (BOC), and was Co-Founder of Back Attack Prevention Program for Veterans showcasing her versatile skill set in manual therapy and athletic care.
In her career, Alix has served as a Head Athletic Trainer and Director of Athletic Training at OrthoArizona. While there, she supervised and educated physical therapy students on sports medicine practice, including developing exercise programs, return-to-sport/activity programs, and manual therapy skills. As a physical therapist at Spooner, she focuses on holistic care for her patients and uses volunteer opportunities to help her community. Through a partnership with PHHacility Basketball, a program dedicated to developing skills and placing student athletes with colleges across the country, Alix provides injury evaluation and treatment, along with sports injury screening, directly supporting basketball players in their athletic pursuits.
With extensive experience working with collegiate athletes across women’s volleyball, men’s basketball, men’s and women’s tennis, and football, Alix is well-versed in the demands of high-performance sports. Her work with student-athletes emphasizes injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, while fostering close collaboration with orthopedic surgeons, physician assistants, coaches, and other athletic trainers.
Lauren Walsh, MS, AT, CSCS
Clinical Athletic Trainer at Barrow Neurological Institute’s Brain Injury and Sports Neurology Center
Education:
PhD – Grand Canyon University
MS in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology
BS in Athletic Training – Northern Arizona University
About:
Lauren K. Walsh is the Clinical Athletic Trainer for Barrow Neurological Institute’s Brain Injury and Sports Neurology Center in Phoenix, Arizona. She also serves as Program Manager for the Barrow Concussion Network, a robust community outreach program serving athletes, families, coaches, and concussion professionals. Lauren is dedicated to advancing concussion care and health equity by providing education focused on injury prevention and management. This includes developing innovative tools and resources to aid student athletes, regardless of their distance from the clinic and socioeconomic status. Lauren’s expertise extends to strength and conditioning, mindfulness, and performance psychology, with a specialty in unintended ramifications. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Northern Arizona University, a Master of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida, and a PhD in Performance Psychology from Grand Canyon University. An established leader in concussion prevention, Lauren serves as the State Director of ThinkFirst National Injury Prevention Foundation and Vice President of the Arizona Athletic Trainers’ Association. She is a passionate advocate for appropriate preventative and post-injury athletic health care. When she is not in “Athletic Trainer Mode,” she pours her passion and joy into raising her two beautiful toddlers with her husband, spending time with her cattle dog, preparing for her first full marathon, and embarking on any outdoor adventure.
Gary Waslewski, MD
Director of Sports Medicine at Arizona Sports Medicine Center, Abrazo Health
Education:
MD – Medical College of Virginia
BA – Princeton University
Affiliations:
Head Team Physician Arizona Cardinals
Head Team Physician Arizona Diamondbacks
Phoenix Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine Fellowship
About:
Dr. Waslewski is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon with a CAQ in Sports Medicine who is fellowship trained in surgical reconstruction of the throwing elbow and shoulder as well as complex sports knee reconstruction surgery. He is currently in his 13th year as Head Team Physician/Orthopedic Surgeon for the NFL Arizona Cardinals. Dr. Waslewski took over duties as the Head Team Physician for the MLB Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015 after 10 years serving as orthopedic consultant for the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants. He earned three World Series rings for his work with the San Francisco Giants. He served as Head Team Physician for the NBA Phoenix Suns 2019-2020 season. He was Head Team Physician for the NHL Arizona Coyotes hockey team for 16 years and was a traveling team physician for USA Hockey, covering the IIHF World Championships in Bern/Zurich Switzerland in 2009 and the 2007 TUI Deutschland Cup in Cologne/Hannover Germany.
Dr. Waslewski has spent the majority of his 22 years in practice working primarily in sports medicine and surgery, initially working with the Franklin Templeton Tennis Tournament (ATP and WTA), Milwaukee Brewers, Central Arizona College Athletics and as Co-Medical Director of the Scottsdale Unified School District.
Matt Midkiff PT, DPT, CSCS, CAFS, FDN2, USSF “B”
Director & Owner Gilbert-Mesa at Foothills Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy
Education:
DPT – A.T. Still University
About:
Matt Midkiff PT, DPT, CSCS, CAFS, FDN2, USSF “B” was a youth soccer player in Asheville, NC and high school 4 time all-state player in North Carolina and then Columbia, SC. He was recruited to play soccer collegiately at Westmont College in Santa Barbera, CA. He graduated from AT Still University in 2002, with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. During graduate school, he had started coaching competitive club soccer at the Sereno Soccer Club while also running their sport performance and injury prevention program. He has continued coaching for the last 28 years where his coaching accomplishments include 16 state championships and participating in the development of a myriad of college, pro, and even national team players.
He is coaching director at the Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club and the Director of their Sports Medicine program and director at the Gilbert-Mesa location of Foothills Sports Medicine and has merged his love of soccer and physical therapy by specializing in treating soccer injuries, particularly post-operative ACL rehabs, as well as return to sport criteria. He is the former PT for the Phoenix Rising FC professional team in 2018-2019. He is currently now a soccer dad as well having three daughters playing soccer at the ECNL level. He is the dad of twin girls who have both survived cardiac arrest at the soccer fields and a member of the Arizona Heart Associate National Lobby Committee.