As Cole Koontz (DPT ‘24) wrapped up his time at the University of Pittsburgh, he reflected on his clinical education experience that truly exceeded his expectations. A certified athletic trainer in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, Koontz had long dreamed of combining his skills as both a physical therapist (PT) and athletic trainer (ATC) in the professional ice hockey world. Thanks to an unexpected conversation and the collaborative efforts of the Pitt clinical education team, Koontz’s vision has become a reality.
Alumni Connections
While discussing his future aspirations with Physical Therapy Professor Sue Whitney, Koontz learned that she had recently visited the minor league Boston Bruins’ locker room while working with David Pezzullo, a 1992 graduate of the Department of Physical Therapy Master of Science in sports and orthopedic physical therapy. This conversation quickly sparked an opportunity, with Clinical Education Coordinator and Assistant Professor Mark Malacarne taking the lead to establish a new clinical affiliation with Pezzullo at University Orthopedics, Inc. in Providence, Rhode Island.
Dave Pezzullo has become a key figure in shaping Koontz’s career path. As Pezzullo reflects on his own time at Pitt, he credits the University of Pittsburgh’s Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy program for preparing him for a successful career in sports medicine. “The mentors I gained from my experience in Pittsburgh helped me progress throughout my career,” he shared. Now serving as the physical therapy/assistant athletic trainer for the Providence Bruins, the minor league affiliate of the Boston Bruins, Pezzullo is passing on that knowledge to the next generation of physical therapists, including Koontz.
Invaluable Clinical Experience and Mentoring
For Koontz, this clinical experience has been invaluable. “I want to be a PT/AT for a professional hockey team in the future. This clinical gave me the opportunity to work with someone who is very experienced in that role. I am now prepared to take on this role thanks to the mentorship from Dave,” he said.
Working alongside both athletic trainers and physical therapists in an orthopedic and sports environment, Koontz gained the hands-on experience necessary to pursue his dream of working with elite athletes.
One of the most memorable moments of his clinical experience came when he assisted during the preseason with the Boston Bruins. “I got to work with the NHL club and be on the bench for warm-ups during the first preseason game at TD Garden. It was an incredible experience and something I’ll always remember,” Koontz shared.
Dave Pezzullo, who mentored Koontz during this experience, was equally impressed with his dedication and passion. “It was a pleasure to act as a mentor to an aspiring physical therapist looking to pursue a career in professional hockey,” Pezzullo commented.
As Koontz and all the graduates of the DPT Class of 2024 begin their professional careers, we congratulate them on this monumental achievement. We also extend our deepest gratitude to our alumni, like Dave Pezzullo, who continue to support the next generation of Pitt PT clinicians, ensuring that the legacy of excellence in Pitt physical therapy education lives on.
We wish Cole Koontz and all our DPT graduates the very best as they embark on their careers, and we look forward to seeing them continue to make their mark in the world of sports medicine and beyond!
