Conclusion of Rio 2016 is Just the Beginning for Olympic Volunteer Physical Therapist Jeremy Crow

Upon conclusion of the 2016 Rio Olympics, NYPTA Member Jeremy Crow took time to share the full impact of his experience as a medical volunteer at this global event. Crow covered the highlights of his time at the event, key educational takeaways from this experience, and what it meant to him as a physical therapy professional to work with these elite athletes.  

1. What was your favorite part of your Olympic experience?

I enjoyed the accepting attitude and the non-judgmental atmosphere, where for two weeks people gather to perform at their best on the ultimate platform. Being able to help these athletes at this level was a life-long dream.

2. Now that the games are over, reflecting back on the entire experience, what were some of the most important things you learned and enjoyed about your time at the Olympics?

•  I realized that dreams are realized through hard work and perseverance.
• It took over 50,000 volunteers to produce the Olympic Games.
• I learned about the policies and procedures the athletes and medical team have to follow to stay in compliance with the IOC (International Olympic Committee).
• I was fascinated with the behind the scenes doping and alcohol testing for the athletes and the referees
• All the networking that takes place with the many athletes, medical staff, fans, and other volunteers
• Sitting in the stands and watching the Olympic games seeing many different events: basketball, gymnastics, swimming, and volleyball.
• I fulfilled a life-long dream by living this experience.

3. Do you plan to be a medical volunteer at future Olympic Games? If so, have you begun that process yet?

Yes I plan on going to Pyeong Chang for the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea. Applications have already opened.

4. What insight would you give to other PTs who are hoping to work at a future Olympic Games?

The best insight I could offer is to tell people to complete and submit the application, network with as many people as possible, keep yourself  up to date on the latest treatment approaches, volunteer with as many types of sports as possible, and NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!!

5. Any additional comments or highlights you would like to share regarding your Olympic experience?

Some highlights from this experience have been watching the opening ceremonies, cheering on greats like Michael Phelps and Simone Biles when they won gold medals, and being courtside for the medal ceremonies.

I will never forget this opportunity to work as a medical volunteer. I will be forever grateful to the people I met, the people I’ve worked with and this experience. See you in Pyeong Chang, South Korea in 2018!