Diversity; The Future of Sports Medicine

"Diversity is the one true thing we all have in common," remarked Winston Churchill. However, despite this shared aspect of humanity, there is a glaring lack of diversity among coaches, supporting staff, and medical personnel working with teams and athletes. As of 2019, the APTA reported that white physical therapists constitute 81.2% of the profession in the United States, significantly higher than the 57.8% of white Americans in the total population. Conversely, Black Americans and Hispanics, comprising 12.32% and 18.7% of the population respectively, are significantly underrepresented in physical therapy, with only 3.4% and 8.0% representation. In sports physical therapy, leadership, research, and clinical roles are predominantly held by white Americans, contrasting sharply with the racial and ethnic makeup of the athletic population they serve. Additionally, there is a notable underrepresentation of women in prominent roles within sports medicine and physical therapy, despite comprising 65-70% of the workforce. This disparity extends to conference presentations, where men dominate as presenters. This under-representation undermines an equitable learning environment. This panel aims to explore the crucial intersection of diversity and sports physical therapy, delving into the multifaceted ways in which diversity enhances the field. By acknowledging and celebrating the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives within sports physical therapy, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for practitioners and patients alike. Moreover, the panel will illuminate the complexities of navigating the field for underrepresented groups, aiming to inspire the next generation of sports physical therapists to become the future of sports medicine.