Dr. Bradley Nindl, the director of the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, officially approved the launch of the 2023 STEM/Summer Sports Science Institute that was planned and coordinated by the NMRL's administrator, Ouahiba Boukaabar. In the last week of June, the institute successfully provided 15 middle school students a unique and enriching experience, enlightening them about the fascinating world of sports science and uncovering the principles behind athletic performance while fostering a love for scientific inquiry.
The institute offered students a unique and valuable learning experience by providing a blend of hands-on activities, field trips, engaging lessons, and interactive career planning discussions. The following SMN researchers, accomplished athletes, and expert coaches shared their knowledge and experiences in various sports disciplines, inspiring and empowering the students:
- Drs. Aggelou and Dicesaro - Athletic Training
- Instructor William Ankrom - The Evolution of the Football Helmet
- Dr. Felix Proessl - How do Coaches Make Good Decisions in Sports
- Dr. Elizabeth Nagle - The Science of Swimming
- Dr. Brian Martin - Career Presentation on Laboratory Management
- Kelly Mroz - Bone Growth and Activities on IDexa and HR-pQCT 3D Scanners
- Coach Nolan Mowery - The Science of Weightlifting
- Graduate Student Alexis Mitcheltree - Nutrition Plans Tailored to Meet the Athlete's Performance Goals
- Alumni Sina D'Amico Dietician - Career Presentation (Both Alexis and Sina were guided by Drs. Cousins and Passerrello)
- Drs. Murray and Allison - Sports Performance Olympics
- PhD student, Jennifer Forse - Physical, Emotional, and Social Health: The Physiological Benefits of Fitness, Exercise, and Well-being
- Dr. Mita Lovalekar - Statistics and Data Visualization
- Dr. Shawn Flanagan - Career Planning
Students also received the oppurtunity to tour the Pitt main campus, the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, and the Peterson Sports Complex. What sets our Summer Sports Science institute apart is our commitment to the holistic development of our students. We believe that sports science encompasses not only the physical aspects of performance but also the mental, emotional, and psychological well-being of young athletes. Accordingly, our curriculum incorporated topics such as sports psychology, nutrition, injury prevention and bone growth, and sports medicine, allowing students to grasp the multidimensional nature of sports science.
Beyond the academic and scientific aspects, we successfully built a culture of camaraderie, teamwork, and personal growth. Our students were able to create new friendships, learn to collaborate effectively, and cultivate essential life skills. Through team-building activities, sports competitions, and mentorship programs, we aimed to instill values like discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. As part of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusivity, and accessibility, we served students of all skill levels, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Whether they are passionate about a specific sport, interested in the science behind athletic performance, or simply seeking a summer adventure, our institute offered a supportive and nurturing environment for each and every participant.
The 2023 Summer Sports Science Institute provided a fun journey where sports and science converged. Thanks to all parents and students, SMN faculty and student researchers for working together to help make the institute a success.