I have had the pleasure of knowing James Gardiner on both a personal and professional level for the past 3 years.  James was my Athletic Therapy mentor at York University in my first year and he took the time to ensure that I understood the relationship between academia and clinic skills, asking questions that would facilitate a deeper understanding of the various topics that we would discuss, bringing them together to help formulate the building blocks of athletic therapy.  His zest for life coupled with a desire to never stop learning is what he imparts on anyone he meets. James has this gift of empowerment. He empowers those around him, be it his students or colleagues to strive to be the very best, never losing sight of what is important. 

This past year, I have watched James take the profession of athletic therapy to the next level. He was instrumental in creating an online platform for both athletes and practitioners to come together to share ideas and stories on many different levels from education and career development to personal growth and life lessons.  Each week, those of us that join in are always left in admiration of the amazing speakers that James connects us with.

Most importantly James has been influential in creating change.  A change in not only how we practice but in how we empower those we come in contact with. In June 2020, I was invited to attend a retreat that James held.  I cannot begin to express what an incredible experience it was. James guides you through various practices which begin to lay down the foundation to focused learning.  He takes his experience in athletic therapy and strength and conditioning and combines it with the intent of being present.  This intent is the missing link in the mind-body connection.  When you understand how important it is to be present in the movements that you are doing, you begin to develop a deeper understanding of how your body moves.   Ultimately you begin to develop greater joint movement which in turn will not only help with any rehabilitation of injury; it will also set you up for greater success physically. 

James has an innate ability to educate, empower and impact those around him.  I would highly recommend attending any retreat or course that James has to offer as it will be the beginning of taking your career to the next level.