The American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) is an Academy within the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) focused on the advocacy of sports physical therapy. The AASPT empowers its members to specialize and excel in sports physical therapy practice through education, research, networking, and mentorship.

The development of the AASPT began in the early 1970s. Recognizing the unique needs of athletes and active individuals, a group of physical therapists led by Ron Peyton, Clem Eischen, Gertrude “Trudy” Lamb, and George McCluskey with a special interest in sports began to advocate for a formal entity within the APTA. The Section on Sports Medicine was approved by the APTA House of Delegates on June 28th, 1973. In 1982, the name was officially changed to the Sports Physical Therapy Section.

In the late 1970s and early 1980’s, the Section initiated efforts to define the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities required for competent practice in sports physical therapy. The Sports Physical Therapy Section formally petitioned the Board for Certification of Advanced Clinical Competence (BCACC), the governing body for specialization at the time, for recognition as a specialty area. In 1981, The APTA House of Delegates officially approved Sports Physical Therapy as an area of specialization, with the first board certification examination held in 1987.

In both the early 1990’s and early 2000’s, the Sports Physical Therapy Section reviewed and revised its definition of advanced specialty practice and continued to help guide clinicians seeking post-professional education within the field of sports physical therapy. Over the years, the Sports Physical Therapy Section grew in membership and influence, becoming a leading voice in the field of sports physical therapy.

The Sports Physical Therapy Section officially transitioned to the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) in 2018. The term "Academy" within APTA signifies a component focused on a specific area of practice with a strong emphasis on specialization, education, research, and the development of clinical skills. The current leadership of the Academy continues to focus on these same principles today; with additional member benefits including access to three peer-reviewed journals, various educational and networking opportunities, research grants, and more. In these efforts, the AASPT is a leading advocate for sports physical therapists across the country and the world.