In honour of International Women’s Day, the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association proudly acknowledges the achievements, contributions and influence of women in athletic therapy and beyond. Across the country, we have continually witnessed the impact of women in this field. Their expertise, skills and insights have not only uplifted the standard of care but also shaped the future of athletic therapy.
We spoke to Certified Athletic Therapist Kirsten Kidd to dive into her personal journey as a woman in athletic therapy and her experience of working alongside an all-female medical team for the Ottawa Black Bears, a National Lacrosse League (NLL) team. In her story, Kirsten highlights the importance of connection, collaboration and self-empowerment in achieving success as a woman in the industry, while also reflecting on the deeper significance of her current role and what it truly means to her.
While undertaking her post secondary education, Kirsten crossed paths with a Certified AT whose insights and dedication inspired her to explore athletic therapy as a career. Captivated by the profession’s ability to combine her passion for helping people and her lifelong love of sports, Kirsten attended Mount Royal College to pursue her Athletic Therapy Advanced Certificate.
Gaining the knowledge she needed to grow and succeed within the industry, Kirsten references the importance of mentorship at this stage in her journey and acknowledges her appreciation for her Supervising Athletic Therapist (SAT), Meryl Wheeler, who at the time, guided her along throughout her athletic therapy program and National Certification Exam (NCE). “She encouraged me through the whole training process of doing my certification,” Kirsten shared.
Kirsten’s resilience has continued to prosper despite obstacles and setbacks. Even though athletic therapy is increasingly becoming a female-friendly profession, Kirsten recalls conversations from a not-so-distant past, of individuals doubting her aspirations and telling her that there was no place for women in professional men's sports.
Given the grit and determination that are an engrained aspect of Kirsten’s character, she overcame this adversity with a strong mindset. “When the opportunity came to work with the NLL in Ottawa, I knew I couldn't pass it up, I had to try for it, and when I ended up getting it, I had a powerful moment of ‘I just proved you wrong’.” Kirsten shared.
Much of Kirsten’s success can be attributed to her unwavering belief in herself and dedication to athletic therapy, but she also credits the powerful influences from her family. “I came from a family that made sure I knew I could achieve anything I set my mind to and that I believed in myself,” Kirsten reflects. She considers the women in her life to be her greatest mentors, “Both of my grandmothers, my mom, aunts and cousins are a strong willed group of women. This mindset has always been ingrained in me – if you want to do it, go for it.”
Advocating for herself, Kirsten pursued consistent communication with members of the NLL staff, showcasing her passion for the position and the skills and insights she would contribute to the league. Foraging a path forward, Kirsten’s self-empowerment ultimately led her to secure her position as athletic therapist for the Ottawa Black Bears, marking the start of her journey with the first all-female medical team in the NLL.
“I was astonished it hadn't happened before. I never understood why women would be excluded from any job in sports. You want the best person for the job and if that person is a woman, they should get hired,” shared General Manager of the Ottawa Black Bears, Rich Lisk. Blown away by the talent and chemistry of the medical team, Rich feels like the Ottawa Black Bears staff has been together for years, and takes pride in surrounding himself and the team with “the best medical staff in the NLL.”
Taking great pride in this accomplishment and position, Kirsten works alongside two other extremely dedicated and talented women. Consisting of a Medical Director Sports Medicine Doctor, Marie-Josée Klett, Certified Head AT Kirsten, and Certified AT Assistant, Julia DiFederico, the medical team amplifies each other's strengths and functions with a level of trust and respect that enable them to thrive. “This milestone reflects the progress women have made and growing recognition of our expertise and skills in the previously male-dominated fields of healthcare and sports,” shared Dr. Klett.
Functioning collaboratively, Kirsten, alongside the medical team, provides treatment to athletes on game day weekends and throughout the week. Kirsten’s game day starts early, setting up the room for pre-game practice, followed by providing taping and treatment throughout the day and during the game. All in all, Kirsten spends over 16 hours on game day ensuring the team is fully supported to perform at their best.
Kirsten and the entire medical team are proving that women have both the potential and space to thrive within professional leagues. Serving as a role model for others, Kirsten has inspired her neighbour, a young woman, to pursue a career in athletic therapy too. Speaking to the power of visibility, Kirsten hopes that the presence of women in athletic therapy and sports – particularly the male-dominated fields – continues to be more prominently showcased.
“I have pushed to prove that I am able to do what I can do and why I should be here,” Kirsten stated. “It is why I was proud to be President of the association for two years and to be on the CATA Board to show younger females that we can do whatever we put our minds to.”
Speaking to the efforts of the association, Kirsten emphasizes the importance of continuing to amplify and celebrate the visibility of women in athletic therapy, particularly those who defy traditional expectations, like Becky Swan, who is a Certified AT with the police department in British Columbia; Kathlyn Hossack who is providing athletic therapy treatment to farmers and ranchers; and Christy Nichol and Frances Flint who are encouraging mental wellness in Certified ATs.
Working the NLL is more than just a job for Kirsten. Growing up with brothers who played lacrosse in a hometown that loved the sport, she has been immersed in the world of lacrosse for most of her life. Now, she is making history as a member of the first all-female medical team in the NLL. “When I first started in Athletic Therapy my dream job was to work with the professional lacrosse league,” she shares. “To be able to say that I accomplished my dream job is incredibly rewarding.”
Kirsten’s journey is a testament to the power of what women can do. From dreaming of working in the NLL, to living and experiencing it firsthand, she has turned ambition to reality. With the support of her mentors, fellow female industry professionals and her unwavering belief in herself, Kirsten is committed to proving to herself and the next generation what women are capable of and “to show what girls and women can really do.”
To learn more about the scope of practice for an Athletic Therapist, visit our website here. Stay up to date with CATA by following us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn!
Pictured below from left to right: Medical Director Sports Medicine Doctor Marie-Josée Klett, Certified Head AT Kirsten Kidd, and Certified AT Assistant, Julia DiFederico
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