Mike graduated from SUNY @ Buffalo in 1988 with a dual major in Physical Therapy & Exercise Science. He worked alongside one of the pioneers of sports physical therapy in Miami, where numerous professional and other high-level athletes were seen. After a move to Ohio, Mike became an NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) in 1995 and then a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach. Mike and Karen moved closer to their Buffalo roots and families, settling in Rochester in 1995, where he spent 9 years working at University Sports Medicine.
Mike continued pursuing more expertise in sports and orthopedic care, in 2004 obtaining National Board Certification as a Sports Physical Therapy Specialist. Mike moved on in 2005 to open Peak Performance, soon to be joined by his wife, Karen. Peak Performance grew and thrived for 20 years, known as a resource for biomechanical problem solving, local physicians/surgeons and their family members, and athletes and active lifestylers looking to get back to what they love.
His expertise was deeply enhanced in 2009, completing the Gray Institute’s Fellowship in Applied Functional Science (FAFS) with in-depth training on functional biomechanics and “3D” views of not only human movement but also more deeply appreciating the “mind, body, spirit” sides that make up all patients. In 2012, Mike completed the Nike Golf Performance Specialist (NGS) certification and later advanced through the Gray Institute’s Golf Performance Specialist program in 2021. He also completed the Excellus Spine Pathway program in 2015.
Mike has a passion for learning and for sharing his knowledge and experiences through teaching others. He has been an invited speaker at local and regional sports medicine and orthopedic conferences, offered his own CEU courses for professionals, presented at the APTA National Conference, and been a guest instructor for the Slippery Rock University, Ithaca College, and Nazareth University PT programs.
“I’ve been greatly blessed by a number of things in life…including parents who taught us about caring for others, the value of hard work, and integrity. I’ve also been honored and humbled to learn from some of the most gifted professionals in the PT and Sports Training world over the years who were willing to share their knowledge and skills. It’s my way of paying it forward to share and pour into others to honor those who did the same for me.”
Mike has been happily married to Karen since 1990, and they have four awesome adult children, Henry, Jordan, Kyle, and Mandy. One of their greatest blessings is being Papa and Mimi to beautiful little Joelle (Joey) and Leighton. You’ll find Mike on the golf course with friends, hiking with Karen, working out, spending time with family, and ushering at Northridge Church on Sundays when he’s not working.