Dr. Toby Brooks serves at the Director of Research and Education for the IYCA.
Brooks is also currently an Assistant Professor in the Master of Athletic Training Program at the Texas Tech University Health Science Center in Lubbock, TX.
What’s your background?
PhD & MS in Physical Education from University of Arizona, BS in Athletic Training from Southern Illinois University. 10+ years experience in athletic training & strength and conditioning at professional, collegiate, and high school levels. Owned and operated sports performance business in Southern Illinois for three years prior to accepting academic position at Texas Tech. Three year starter in basketball in high school with a brief stint in college. Coached youth sports in soccer, baseball, softball, and basketball over the past 15 years.
What do you do in your career today?
I serve as clinical coordinator for the Masters of Athletic Training Program at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Director of Research and Education for the IYCA.
What does the IYCA mean to you or how has the IYCA impacted you?
I became involved in the IYCA within its first year of existence. As an athletic trainer, I see the impact of improper and/or overly aggressive training on young athletes all the time. I was convinced the IYCA was an up and coming professional organization that aligned with my professional philosophies while also being accessible, meaning its “newness” afforded me a way of making an impact right away without all the political posturing one might expect in organizations that have been around a while.
Why you created / contributed to your IYCA products and who they are for.
I have been involved in every IYCA product with the exception of the very first Level 1 YCS (now revised and relaunced as the Level 1 YFS 1 that I wrote with the contribution of Dr. David Stodden). It is my passion to see to it that any parent or professional who cares enough to assume the role of “coach” be adequately equipped to serve most effectively in that position. A willing heart is the first critical step. A prepared mind should follow closely behind. It is my hope that any IYCA product I assist in creating can reinforce the heart and help activate the mind.