Prep Camp Physiotherapy

As HQ physiotherapist at the Preparation Camp in Calgary for the Vancouver Winter Olympics, time has flown by as we enter our second week.

Over the first few days our main aim was to transform a function room in the hotel, more normally catering for sedentary activities  such as meetings, conferences or meals into a ‘Performance Centre’ for use by our elite athletes for physiotherapy treatments, exercise, preparation and recovery.  We set about completing this challenge and within a short period of time (and a lot of work!) everything was in place.  The performance Centre was ready.

Athletes started to arrive and between treating these athletes, Derick the doctor and I visited the Foothills Hospital out here in Calgary and all the training venues.  We had the privilege of seeing our half pipe athletes and our snowboard cross athlete in action.  What amazing sports they are!!

The week ended with a visit from the BOA’s Chief Medical Officer, Chief physiotherapist and Director of Performance Services on their way through to Whistler and Vancouver.  It was great to catch up with them and show them around.  Their presence made me realise that The Olympic Games is really only a matter or days away now… how exciting!!!

Today as I sit here reflecting over the last week it is great to see a hive of activity in the Performance Centre with the team physio’s treating athletes and various other athletes exercising and stretching.  There is a real energy and buzz about the place, just the feelings you expect from the Team GB preparation camp!