Leadership
Meet our team of dedicated professionals devoted to Gymnastics Medicine and the continued studies of gymnastics-related injuries and prevention.
Founder
Dr. Elspeth (Elly) Hart
DScPAS, PA-C, MPAS, ATC, LAT
Our founder, Dr. Elly Hart, was only three years old when she began her gymnastics career. She competed in Region VI and was a Junior Olympic level 10 gymnast before attending James Madison University as a Division I athlete. During her time at James Madison, she studied Athletic Training & Sports Medicine with a minor in Biology and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science.
After graduation, Elly passed her boards and went on to practice as a Certified Athletic Trainer. During this time, she started competing again, qualifying and hitting four for four routines at level 10 Junior Olympic National Championships. She was one of the oldest gymnasts to do so at the age of twenty-three.
She obtained a Master’s degree in Physician’s Assistant Studies from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) and passed her Boards to become a Certified Physician’s Assistant. While practicing sports medicine, Elly made history by starting the country’s first Gymnastics Medicine Clinic. The clinic focuses exclusively on gymnastics injuries, diagnosis, education, treatment, and prevention. She has also written and published many research papers on the subject and is currently finishing multiple gymnastics-specific studies.
In 2019, Elly completed her Doctorate from MCPHS before founding Gymnastics Medicine: Education and Research. She is an avid snowboarder and surfer, and also competed in the 2021 National Ninja Warrior Championships and is currently ranked 3rd across adult, female ninjas.
Executive Board Members
Samantha Peszek
With 21 years of gymnastics experience, Samantha Peszek has been fortunate enough to compete at every level the sport offers.
Kerry Salerno
As a mom to two young gymnasts, Riley (14) and Chloe (12), Kerry Salerno knows the dedication it takes to be a gymnastics family.
Riley Salerno
Riley is a high school student and gymnast who brings a unique perspective to the Executive Board.
Working Board Members
Kerry Bair
RD, LDN, MPH, CSSD
Kerry Bair is a registered dietitian and a gymnastics nutrition expert helping gymnasts fuel their bodies, prevent injuries, and reach their highest potential through proper eating habits.
Dr. Alyssa Herrera-Set
PT, DPT, SCS, NCPT
Dr. Alyssa Herrera-Set is a physical therapist, pilates teacher, and clinic owner. She’s been involved in gymnastics for 40 years. Of all the gymnastics roles she’s had – gymnast mom has been her favorite.
Jamie Broz
MEd, ATC
Jamie Broz holds two Bachelor of Science degrees in Athletic Training and Exercise Science and a Master’s in Health Education and Promotion from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Ariana LeBlanc
LMHC, MS, BS
As a former elite gymnast, Ariana truly understands the mental struggle gymnasts face while at the gym.
Elizabeth Melvin
PT, OCS, CSCS
Elizabeth (Liz) Melvin is a sports physical therapist, life-long gymnast, coach and judge.
Dr. Kaysha Bates
PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS
Kaysha’s background as an athlete, coach, and physical therapist gives her a unique perspective on the prevention, rehabilitation, and performance of young gymnasts.
Dr. Ezara Greene
PT, DPT
Ezara has been involved in the world of gymnastics for over 20 years – as a competitor, coach, and now physical therapist.
Board Alumni
Working Board
Dr. Shannon Bauman – Sports Medicine Physician
Dr. Emily Sweeney – Paediatric Sports Medicine Physician
Kelsey Griffith – Mental Skills Specialist
Dr. Diana Lattimore – Sports Psychologist, Certified Mental Performance Coach
Dr. Jenny Borda – Physical Therapist
Dr. Tenaya West – Podiatrist
Mallory Mickus – Athletic Trainer
Natalie Gurnett – Mental Performance Coach
Executive Board
Dr. Ellen Casey – Sport Medicine Physician
Dr. Thomas Gill – Orthopaedic Surgeon/Sports Medicine Physician
Cale Robinson – High Performance Gymnastics Coach
Megan Mistretta – Gymnastics Parent
Owen Mistretta – Gymnast