A reader comments: "I would love to join the GAIN network and I would also love to join Gary Gray's GIFT program but it takes money and I ain't got it."
I want you to never forget that I am a real life high school ATC, just like you guys. And, I will never try to sell you something on this blog. As the title states, it is dedicated to you guys.
A little more about me. I have been fired from my position here at Elizabeth High School twice in the past 23 years. In both cases, combinations of a coach and administrator who had it in for me. I'm not sure what ever happened to the ATC who replaced me, or the coach & administrator. They're probably selling insurance or real estate some where.
The point is, the only reason I was asked to come back is because I produce. I produce because I am competitive, and want to do a better job then the next guy. Had I not met Vern Gambetta some 15 years ago, I'm not sure I wouldn't be selling insurance too. He introduced me to Gary's concepts, the kinetic link principal, and I still believe it's the fastest & most effective way to get the job done.
Elizabeth High School has not paid for a single continuing education credit. All of it has been out of pocket for me. This stuff is not only my profession, but also my hobby. Sorry, but the idea of spending thousands to hit a little white ball over a green doesn't excite me. But this stuff inspires me. If you think I'm a dope for doing it, fine. But, the little 60 minute bites I was getting at conferences was not enough in this era of competitive health care. Who says a chiropractor or P.T. can't learn how to tape and do what we do?
Look, I'm not suggesting YOU pay out of pocket for anything. But, many wouldn't think twice about asking their board of ed or booster club to purchase an electrotherapy unit for thousands of dollars. And like I asked in a previous post, are you getting the biggest bang for your buck? Can you take out your stop watch or goniometer and measure the improvement? If you can't, maybe think twice about how you budget your money. The kinetic link principal is the best modality I own.
I hope you'll continue to let me share it with you.
5 comments:
Thanks Joe for all your posts, I love that you are not afraid to integrate different schools of thought and that you don't fall in the trap of fallowing blindly without questioning the approach; and finally that you have made sure to give credit to the people that have influenced you.
Great work!!!
Hey Juan, totally off track here, but a question. I assume you are of Spanish heritage, so you might know the answer here. My wife is Cuban, & a big fan of flamanca. And well, I just don't get it. Do Spaniards actually enjoy it, or is it just a touristy thing?
I have to agree with Joe. I was lucky enough to go through the GIFT program at the same time as Joe. We were the only two "traditional" ATCs who went through the program, and there is only one this year I believe. The experience is amazing, and like Joe talks about the Kinetic Link principle is truly the most efficient and affective way to treat our athletes...
Like Joe I pay for all of my CEUs myself, including the GIFT program. I think there comes a point in your career where you decide if you want to keep doing the same old things or figure out what really is causing the problems and help your athletes fix them. Also, like Joe this is my hobby, and I spend way too much of money on books, videos, and CEUs.
I think programs like GIFT and GAIN really set you apart from the other ATCs and even other health care providers. Just my 2 cents...
Thanks Joe for everything you do, I love getting to hear your thoughts and what you're up to...Hope all is well...
PAT DONOVAN MEd, ATC
How much of Gary Grey's stuff is related to the NASM PES programming? I received my MS degree from Cal U, and my eyes were spread wide open by the assessment techniques that were part of the NASM-PES credential. As an athletic trainer my assessment abilities have really ramped up. I am aware of Gary Grey's techniques but haven't given them much thought until I heard you praise them. I think I may take a closer look now...
Well, at $14400 for the GIFT program and $3600 for the GAIN program I think I'll have to rely on Joe to educate me!
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