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Sara Hoffman
195
Bold Points1x
Finalist![user profile avatar](/_next/static/media/default-profile.039849c4.png)
Sara Hoffman
195
Bold Points1x
FinalistEducation
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)Majors:
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
University of Mississippi
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Festus Sr. High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Sports Performance
Dream career goals:
Future of S&C: Strength Coach Job Network Scholarship
In the next 5-10 years, the field of strength and conditioning is going to continue to evolve into a more evidence-based space. Especially in the lower-funded sectors, such as high schools, we still see strength and conditioning programs run by head football coaches with no certifications. In the coming years, with the growth of college athletics, this will no longer be acceptable to most high school athletes. There will be a push for more qualified individuals to be employed in these spaces.
Along with this, there will be a greater emphasis put on adequate rehabilitation for these athletes. In the next 5-10 years, I would love to see the field grow into a place that strength and conditioning blends seamlessly with the work that physical therapists and athletic trainers are doing. As a physical therapy student that is pursuing a more strength and conditioning specific experience, I aim to blend physical therapy with strength and conditioning. I take the approach that rehab should look like training. This keeps the patient engaged with their care while also taking the approach best suited for them, especially in athletics.
In addition, my passion for nutrition research plays a big role in the mindset I have for athletes during a rehab or training session. I specifically have an interest in investigating the role that sickle cell trait can play in an athlete’s recovery. In the next 5-10 years, there will be more research to show the impact this condition has on athletic performance independent of the increased risk catastrophic injury. It will be pertinent for coaches to stay up-to-date on this information and work closely with others on their care team to provide the best care for these student-athletes.
Overall, the field of strength and conditioning is going to continue to evolve into a more evidence-based and collaborative field. In order to give student-athletes the best experience and maximize performance, each section of their recovery and day-to-day activities should flow together. It is imperative that every coach or clinician working with an athlete is on the same page. Just like the teams we are working for, each member of the sports performance team should be looking out for the best interest of the players. Strength and conditioning will continue to evolve into a field that works with sports nutrition, physical therapy, athletic training, and on-field coaches to gain the best outcomes and performance for student-athletes.