Growing up as a competitive swimmer and runner, I remember watching the 2004 Olympic Triathlon event thinking to myself “I can do that!” Later that season, I got a bike and participated in my first sprint triathlon in NJ with minimal equipment and no idea how to transition from one sport to the next. I won my age group in that race and from that point forward, I was hooked. Triathlon became a huge part of my life in many ways.  I worked at the local bike shop, lifeguarded, taught swim lessons, and surrounded myself with like-minded athletes of all ages and levels.  I was able to gain experience through guidance of coaches and triathlon camps.  Once I turned 16, I started competing at the highest level in ITU junior elite draft-legal races. In my college years, I ran cross country for the University of Pittsburgh while also competing in Age Group Triathlons.  This included multiple National Championships and the 2009 World Championships. In 2009, I wanted to share my love of the sport with other collegiate athletes and I founded the University of Pittsburgh Triathlon Club, helping a group of athletes successfully compete in their first triathlons.

Although I had accomplished much at a young age, my success was not without adversity. For most of my youth, I struggled with RED-S or Female Athlete Triad.  As I entered a grueling doctorate graduate school program, the increased stress compounded, and I sought medical help. Throughout the years, I was able to adjust my relationship with food and my attitude towards triathlon training. The strategies I learned are invaluable and I utilize these to better help others with their nutrition goals while emphasizing that food is fuel.

As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, I greatly enjoy helping people work towards and accomplish their goals, no matter their ability or skill level.  I am passionate about helping all clients return to daily activities and hobbies that give them joy.  As a physical therapist, I am a trained movement expert who is able to assess and modify postural and mobility dysfunction as well as prevent injury.  I believe it is essential to look at the whole person and provide individualized plans that address mental, emotional, and physical health to optimize a triathlete’s performance.  In triathlon coaching, I look to these values to create and customize a training plan which accompanies an athlete’s lifestyle and promotes overall health.  As a former competitive triathlete myself, I am blessed to be in the unique position of being both the trainer and the trainee.  Both perspectives are invaluable to understanding the specific conditions and challenges the competitive triathlete faces. 

When I am not coaching or working with patients, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, and dining at new restaurants in Austin. You may find me running with my dog Duke and my daughter in the stroller, swimming with UT masters, or cycling on the beautiful country roads with friends.