What is AASPT

Mission:

AAPST empowers its members to specialize and thrive in sports physical therapy by advancing education, research, networking, and mentoring through a dynamic community of established and emerging leaders.

Vision:

To be the globally recognized community of leaders who leverage expertise in sports physical therapy to elevate care for athletes and active individuals across the full spectrum of injury risk reduction, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement.

About The Academy

The American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) is a professional component of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), dedicated to advancing the field of sports physical therapy through specialization, education, research, and leadership.

Founded in 1973 as the Section on Sports Medicine, AASPT emerged from a grassroots movement led by Ron Peyton, Clem Eischen, Trudy Lamb, and George McCluskey — clinicians who recognized the unique needs of athletes and active individuals. Over the decades, the Academy has evolved from a small section into a nationally recognized leader, shaping the standards of advanced clinical practice and post-professional education.

In 1981, Sports Physical Therapy was formally approved as a specialty by the APTA House of Delegates, with the first board certification exam held in 1987. Since then, AASPT has continued to define excellence in sports physical therapy, supporting clinicians through mentorship, continuing education, and research funding.

In 2018, the Section officially transitioned to the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy — a name that reflects its commitment to specialization and leadership. Today, AASPT serves over 7,500 members across the country and around the world, offering access to peer-reviewed journals, CEU courses, research grants, and a vibrant professional community.

Whether you're a student, a seasoned clinician, or a researcher, AASPT is your home for growth, connection, and impact in the field of sports physical therapy.

AASPT STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

Members of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy pledge themselves to:

• Maintain the highest standards of business and personal
• Promote and encourage the highest level of ethical conduct and inclusion within the AASPT
• Always communicate AASPT internal and external statements in a truthful and accurate manner
• Collaborate with other AASPT members and professionals outside the AASPT to advance the sports physical therapy profession.

Education

The American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) prioritizes the continuous professional growth of its members through high-quality educational offerings. Our learning center provides an expansive library of online courses, webinars, and resources tailored to the latest evidence-based practices in sports physical therapy. In addition, our in-person events, including the AASPT Annual Meeting, facilitate hands-on learning, skill development, and networking, keeping practitioners at the forefront of the field. Aligned with the American Physical Therapy Association’s mission to elevate standards in the profession, we are committed to advancing our members' knowledge and competencies to enhance patient outcomes.

Research

AASPT supports and promotes member-led research in areas critical to sports physical therapy, fostering innovation and evidence-based clinical practices. Through collaborative efforts in our Special Interest Groups, members engage in studies that advance the understanding of injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement for athletes. By leveraging resources and guidelines inspired by the American Physical Therapy Association, we aim to drive impactful research that shapes the future of sports physical therapy and optimizes patient care protocols.

Practice

At the core of AASPT's mission is excellence in patient care and clinical practice. Our members are dedicated to applying the latest research and evidence-based techniques to improve patient outcomes in sports and orthopedic settings. By focusing on practical applications, we strive to enhance sports physical therapists' skills to deliver top-tier, patient-centered care. This focus aligns with the APTA’s vision of transforming society through optimal movement, empowering our members to excel in clinical environments and make meaningful contributions to athlete health and well-being..

Specialization

The American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy is home to our Specialization Committee. Our mission is to provide a forum that fosters professional relationships among sports-certified specialists to advance the discipline of sports physical therapy practice. We aim to uphold this mission through research, advocacy, and excellence in specialty education & patient care.