Outstanding Service

To recognize a member of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy who has made exceptional contributions in the area of service. 

Eligibility

  • Nominee must be a physical therapist and a member of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy.
  • Nominee shall demonstrate significant contribution in service to the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy in areas such as writing and/or speaking for the section.
  • Service may be demonstrated through an individual’s service on one or more elected or appointed positions or in other capacities within the structure of the section.
  • Serves as a visible spearhead for the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy Advancement.
  • Participates in activities that enhance the specialty practice of sports physical therapy within the section, community, and nationally.
  • Members of the Executive Committee and Awards Committee shall not be eligible for the award during their term in office.
  • A person can receive this award only once.

Selection Criteria

  • Demonstrated commitment to the advancement of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy as evidenced by nominee’s curriculum vitae and letters of support.
  • Utilization of talents in writing, teaching, and any other areas of service to the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy, as evidenced by nominees' curriculum vitae, and letters of support.
  • Participation in activities that promote the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (publicity, recognition, cooperation with other organizations), as evidenced by the nominee's curriculum vitae and letters of support.
  • The nominee must be able to attend the CSM awards ceremony.

Nomination Procedure

  • Any member of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy may nominate candidates for the award.
  • A maximum of one (1) award will be given in any year.
  • Nominations must be submitted electronically and include only the following materials:
    • Completed online nomination form;
    • Current and complete curriculum vitae of the nominee;
    • Letter of support from person nominating the member not to exceed two pages including the reasons for the nomination; and,
    • Letters from two (2) individuals who can specifically address one or more of the criteria for selection, not to exceed two (2) pages.
  • Please have all materials completed and collected when completing the award application. There is no way to save applications in-process so please ensure you have all materials compiled before starting the application.

Notification of the Award

  • The Awards Team Coordinator will notify the recipient of the award and obtain written confirmation of acceptance.
  • The name of the recipient will be kept confidential until announced.

2026 Award Recipient: 

Marisa Pontillo, PT, PhD, DPT, CSCS

Past Recipients