Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Monika’s passion for activity and sport began at a young age. During these years she experienced both individual and team sport environments while competing as a provincial gymnast and training on the soccer field. These experiences led her to obtaining her bachelor’s degree in Athletic and Exercise Therapy and becoming a Certified Athletic Therapist. In addition to her studies, Monika dedicated over 1600 volunteer hours working with individuals at every level of activity. While she focused on emergency care and injury management at various sporting events, Monika also concentrated her time in the clinic where she focused on assessment, rehabilitation, and prevention of musculoskeletal and concussion related injuries. Monika believes everyone is an athlete in their own way and is deserving of individualized care and plan of action when it comes to treating their injuries.
The past four years Monika has worked on the sidelines and in the clinic with the Shawnigan Lake School athletics program. This experience has granted her the opportunity to work full circle with individuals from the moment they are injured to the time they get back to doing what they love. Whether that be sport, work, or everyday life activities, Monika is there every step of the way providing a patient centered approach.
When not in the clinic or on the sidelines of the field, rink, or gym, Monika enjoys spending time outdoors running, hiking and exploring the beautiful island trails and parks with her husband, baby and dog. She also plays female recreational hockey and has stayed involved in the gymnastics community as a judge for the Junior Olympic athletes around Vancouver Island. She is excited to join the Island Optimal Health and Performance team and provide her athletic therapy services in Nanaimo.
