Sports Physical Therapy Residency
The mission of the Johns Hopkins Hospital Sports Physical Therapy Residency is to provide a physical therapist with the clinical experience, mentorship and knowledge needed to become a well-rounded, board-certified sports clinical specialist. The residency graduate will use a collaborative, evidence-based approach to deliver the highest quality of care to athletes and patients of all ages and competitive levels.
Duration: 13 months
Accreditation: ABPTRFE Accredited
Apply through RF-PTCAS
Application deadline: December 1, 2025
Interview decision: December 15, 2025
Interview: Late January, 2026
Program start: July 2026
Clinic locations: Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center - White Marsh, Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center – Green Spring Station, Musculoskeletal Center at Columbia, IMG Academy; training room and on-field coverage performed at local high school and IMG Academy facilities
Prerequisites: applicant must be a graduate from an accredited physical therapy program, hold a valid Maryland physical therapist license or be eligible to obtain one, be eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship by the PMR department and have one of the following: (a) approved Emergency Responder Certification, (b) Athletic Training Certification, or (c) EMT license. Please note, the FSBPT licensure exam must be taken in April 2026 to be able to enter the 2026/2027 cohort.
Number of graduates: 13 graduates since 2017
Completion rate: 93%
First-time specialty exam pass rate: 100%
View program flyer | View financial fact sheet
Please click the pay application link to pay the supplementary application fee. Application will not be processed until the fee is received and application is complete. All fees are non-refundable.
The sports residency has made me a much better therapist. The part that I find distinguishes this residency from others is the emphasis on orthopedic population alongside the sports focus. Taking orthopedic courses and training to treat these diagnoses has set my level of care apart from others.
Patrick Griffin, class of 2017
Program Features
The residency includes the following units:
- Over 150 hours of one-on-one clinical mentorship
- Over 200 hours of sports venue and athletic training room coverage at the high school level
- Over 100 hours of sports and orthopedic didactic education at The Johns Hopkins Hospital
- 1,500 hours of clinical practice
- Clinical environment, including gait and motion analysis, antigravity treadmills and state-of-the-art modalities
- Conference attendance at Combined Sections Meetings
- Teaching and outreach opportunities
Residency Program Director
Nate McClain, PT, DPT, SCS
Residency Program Coordinator
Keelin Godsey, PT, DPT, SCS, OCS, FAAOMPT
Program Faculty
Our program faculty can be found at our Maryland clinics in White Marsh, Green Spring Station and Columbia and at the IMG Academy in Florida.
Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center - White Marsh
- Nate McClain PT, DPT, SCS
- Cameron Kapec PT, DPT, OCS
Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center – Green Spring Station
- Keelin Godsey PT, DPT, SCS, OCS, FAAOMPT
- Nicole Clark PT, DPT, SCS
Musculoskeletal Center at Columbia
Johns Hopkins All Children’s at IMG Academy
Current Residents | Class of 2026
Patrick Chirichella, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: Rutgers University, bachelor's in exercise science
Graduate school: Rutgers University, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Westfield, New Jersey
Professional interests: One of my career goals is to gain the expertise necessary to take an athlete through the full spectrum of rehabilitation, from acute on-field injury to a complete return to performance.
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose Johns Hopkins for the unique opportunity to work with high-level athletes locally and at IMG Academy in Florida under the mentorship of experienced clinicians. I was also drawn to the program for the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration within the hospital network and with other Johns Hopkins residency programs.
Dylan LeClair, PT, DPT
He/him
Undergraduate school: The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, bachelor's in nutrition, exercise, and health sciences
Graduate school: Mayo Clinic, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts
Professional interests: sports physical therapy with a focus on elite and collegiate athletes, injury prevention and performance optimization in gymnastics and overhead athletes, bridging clinical practice with research and teaching in academic medical settings, leadership in sports rehabilitation program development, long-term goal of working with Collegiate, Olympic and national team athletes
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose Johns Hopkins because I wanted to be surrounded by people who push the profession forward. The mentorship, high-level clinical exposure, and access to athletes across all levels made it a clear fit for where I want to take my career. I knew I'd grow here, both as a clinician and as a leader.
What I like about Baltimore: It’s been fun getting to know the different neighborhoods and finding little spots around the city, especially near the water. I’ve enjoyed the balance between being in a major medical hub while still having easy access to nature, good food, and a strong sense of community.
Program Alumni
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Marie-Adelaide Robinson, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: Northeastern University, bachelor's of science in health science
Graduate school: Duke University School of Medicine, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Miami, Florida
Professional interests: return-to-sport/performance training, ACL reconstruction rehabilitation, collegiate and professional sports, knee and ankle injuries, soccer
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose the Johns Hopkins Sports Residency for its education and the great network of clinicians and expertise of our mentors. It's affiliations with both IMG Academy and Loyola Blakefield were another aspect of why I chose this residency. -
Randy Cornejo, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: Texas A&M University, bachelor's of science in kinesiology with a concentration in motor behavior with a minor in neuroscience
Graduate school: The University of North Texas Health Science Center, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Conroe, Texas
Professional interests: ACL rehab, treating tendinopathies, optimizing performance, treating high level football athletes
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: What attracted me to Johns Hopkins was the opportunity to learn from so many great clinicians to help establish my foundation as a sports physical therapist. As well as the combination of the orthopedic and sports didactic curriculums, which made Hopkins unique. Another factor that influenced my decision was the 3 month rotation at IMG Academy and having the opportunity to learn from great providers in Florida, as well as treating high level youth athletes.
Maxwell Ji, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: University of Washington, bachelor's of science in biochemistry
Graduate school: Emory University, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Redmond, Washington
Professional interests: ACLR rehabilitation, return-to-sport/performance training, collegiate & professional sports
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: This program offers a comprehensive learning experience, not only with in-depth orthopaedic and sports modules, but also with pelvic health and other courses that play a significant role in athletics. The affiliation and experience working with a top 5 high school football program/the high caliber athletes at IMG Academy also brought my interest to this program. Lastly, this program creates a personalized residency for each resident depending on their interests.
Brittni Thompson, PT, DPT, MS
Undergraduate school: University of Tampa, bachelor's of science in allied health with a concentration in physical therapy services with a minor in psychology
Graduate school: University of Delaware, doctorate in physical therapy and master's in clinical health sciences
Hometown: Trinidad and Tobago
Professional interests: general sports performance, soccer, end-stage rehab
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: One of the main factors that attracted me to Johns Hopkins is its exceptional mentoring program which I believe is key, especially for new graduates. Additionally, the hospitals standing relationship with schools covering a wide range of sport including soccer which is significant for me. Lastly, Johns Hopkins' affiliation with IMG Academy further solidified my decision. -
Kyle Winiger, PT, DPT, ATC
Undergraduate school: Ohio State University, bachelor's of science in athletic training
Graduate school: Rosalind Franklin University, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Libertyville, Illinois
Professional interests: sports performance, ACL rehab, collegiate/professional sports
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose the Johns Hopkins Sports PT Residency for the prestige of the education, as well as the opportunities that are included in this residency. These opportunities include a clinical rotation at IMG Academy, ability to attend sports medicine conferences, and mentoring from different staff members.
Julia Spier, PT, DPT
Undergraduate school: Rochester Institute of Technology, bachelor's of science in biomedical sciences
Graduate school: University at Buffalo, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Rochester, New York
Professional interests: lacrosse/rotational athletes, sports performance, concussions
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose the Johns Hopkins Sports Residency because I was eager to learn from such a highly esteemed institution that is known for its quality patient care. Its partnerships with IMG Acadamy and Loyola Blakefield were exciting to me with my passion for lacrosse. This program is uniquely designed to help me become a well-rounded practitioner while also giving me the specialization in sports that I am striving for. -
Robert Santana, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: Arizona State University, bachelor's of science in health sciences
Graduate school: University of Southern California, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Professional interests: orthopedics, sports performance, movement analysis/biomechanics, pain science
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose Johns Hopkins for their sports physical therapy residency program because of the availability of resources, new technology and unique experiences available with partners like the IMG Academy.
Joey Scambia, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: University at Albany, bachelor's of science in biology
Graduate school: University of Rhode Island, doctorate in physical therapy
Hometown: Somers, New York
Professional interests: return to sport, blending strength and conditioning with rehabilitation, post-operative rehabilitation (specifically ACL and thrower's shoulder/elbow rehabilitation)
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I chose Johns Hopkins due to the many opportunities available that allow the resident to grow personally and professionally. Due to the strong collaboration with the other residency programs here at Johns Hopkins, as well as time spent at IMG Academy and a local high school, this residency program exposes the resident to a variety of treatment approaches and perspectives. -
Liz Flannery, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: University of California, Los Angeles; bachelor's of science in physiological science
Graduate school: East Carolina University, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Professional interests: sports rehabilitation (specifically throwers and runners), ACL post-op rehabilitation and prevention, return to sport, biomechanical research
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: There aren’t many sports residencies that can successfully showcase the blend of orthopedic and sport-specific opportunities that Johns Hopkins offers. As a resident, your mentors challenge you every session, and you are much more successful with a greater wealth of information at your disposal. Besides, it’s pretty impossible to separate out orthopedics and sports – these two go hand in hand. I appreciate the teaching hospital approach Johns Hopkins brings to carefully selecting a breadth of didactic and clinical experiences, including the components at University of Southern California, conference attendance and the partnership with IMG Academy in Florida.
What I like about Baltimore: I love just exploring the various neighborhoods on foot to take in the sights and vibes. This city has so much history. As a lifelong O’s and Ravens fan, I enjoy the atmosphere when taking in a game or two – these fans are so passionate about their teams! It’s a very vibrant restaurant, bar and art scene. And obviously, the crab cakes are on another level.
Kevin McNamara, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: Montana State University, bachelor's of science in exercise physiology
Graduate school: Franklin Pierce University, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Professional interests: Professionally, my interests lie in managing the pain experience by blending the fields of physical therapy and physical preparation to bring a more holistic approach to sports rehabilitation. Specific professional interests include ACL and RTP rehab, tendinopathy, sports performance and strength and conditioning.
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: The program at Johns Hopkins really does prioritize the growth of the resident. The additional emphasis on the development of orthopedic skills and close interaction with the orthopedic residency as a supplement to the sports medicine element provides an eclectic experience that is unique to the program. -
Tony Trinh, PT, DPT
Undergraduate school: University of British Columbia, bachelor's of science in biology
Graduate school: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Hometown: Bellevue, Washington
Professional interests: sports rehab, return to play, sports performance, injury prevention
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: The program is really dedicated to the development of the residents. Everything from the courses and conferences we get to attend, to the integration with the orthopaedic residency program, there is a tremendous amount of resources at our disposal. The new partnership with the IMG Academy shows how the program is continuing to evolve and grow, striving to provide an even better experience for incoming residents.
What I like about Baltimore: Crab cakes and football.Larisa Trach, PT, DPT, CSCS
Undergraduate school: University of Maryland, College Park, bachelor's of science in biology with specialization in physiology and neurobiology
Graduate school: University of Maryland, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
Professional interests: sports rehabilitation, orthopedics, concussions
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: The program provides unique opportunities to further my knowledge and experience in sport-specific rehabilitation. Through the partnerships with the University of Southern California and the IMG Academy, Johns Hopkins can offer invaluable experiences not offered by other programs. The residency directors, mentors and faculty are extremely knowledgeable and invested in the residents' success. I knew I would gain the most experience and receive the highest education from qualified professionals by participating in this program.
What I like about Baltimore: crabs, National Aquarium, Light City Festival, Orioles; there’s always something going on! -
John Shipley, PT, DPT
Undergraduate school: Geneva College, bachelor's of science in biology
Graduate school: University of Delaware, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Hometown: Glen Arm, Maryland
Professional interests: sports medicine, youth sports injury prevention, community wellness and persistent pain
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: Johns Hopkins was a perfect fit in terms of location, patient population, professional environment and academic focus. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to learn and grow at a world-renowned institution under a supportive leadership team.
What I like about Baltimore: Baltimore is my hometown, so I love it for that. It's a city with a deep history of excellence in art, academics and athletics, and I enjoy getting to be a part of its future. Oh, and you definitely can’t find a better crab cake anywhere in America outside of Baltimore. -
Patrick Griffin, PT, DPT, SCS
Read Q&A with Patrick about his experience in the program.
Undergraduate school: Ithaca College, bachelor's of science in clinical health studies
Graduate school: Ithaca College, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Hometown: Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania
Professional interests: sports injuries, sports performance, orthopedics, return to play, overhead athletes, injury prevention
Why I chose Johns Hopkins: I was excited to be the inaugural resident and help build the program. Being the first, I knew it would come with some “growing pains,” but it also gave the opportunity to develop and grow the residency once completed.
What I like about Baltimore: There is always something to do. Whether it be going to an Orioles game, hiking, golfing, going to one of the many amazing restaurants the city has to offer, or simply just walking along the harbor and catching some of the views — it’s a really cool place to live.
