William Hanney, an associate professor in the School of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, recently received the Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation Specialist Award from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
This award is given to a sports medicine professional whose work and contributions have significantly impacted the field of sports medicine or rehabilitation for athletes.
“I am humbled to be recognized by the NSCA as the Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation Professional of the Year,” Hanney said. “There are many exceptional professionals dedicated to advancing our body of knowledge to help athletes achieve their full potential.”
Morey Kolber, a professor at Nova Southeastern University and former classmate, nominated Hanney for the award.
“Many faculty members may excel at research or service and others are excellent teachers,” Kolber said. “It is absolutely rare to find an individual who excels in all three areas, but that is William Hanney.”
Patrick Pabian, program director for UCF’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, also had high praises for Hanney, referring to Hanney as an outstanding faculty member.
“He has been a longstanding educator, researcher and mentor to students in the areas of orthopedics and sports medicine,” Pabian said. “We are very proud of the work he continues to do in conjunction with the NSCA.”
In addition to this recent award, Hanney was also inducted into UCF’s Scroll and Quill Society in 2018 for his body of research that aims to improve the accuracy of physical examinations and advance treatment approaches for spinal disorders. He has authored more than 65 peer-reviewed manuscripts that have been published in national and international journals. He is also the recipient of a Research Incentive Award and an Excellence in Research Award.
“This award is really a recognition for all those that have contributed to the field of sports medicine and rehabilitation,” Hanney said. “Much of what I’ve been able to accomplish stems from the efforts of so many before me.”
Kolber said that Hanney’s creativity and ability to manage projects has been instrumental in Kolber’s professional success; Hanney often includes him in several ongoing projects.
“My professional career would not be where it is today without the mentorship and partnership that I have developed with Dr. Hanney,” Kolber said. “He is an inspiration to all physical therapists and embodies the attributes we all wish to develop in our careers.”
