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FALL 2020 36 PAN PIPES SIGMA ALPHA IOTA ANNUAL AWARDS 2 0 2 0 D id you know that you can now use Professional Development Grants to pay for non-music related professional development? You can! I was awarded this grant to pay for the exam and study materials to become a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). After studying for several months, I passed the two part exam on October 23 and completed all requirements for certification on November 8, 2019. Before deciding on this career path and taking the exam, I was deep in the world of music education. I received my undergraduate degree in instrumental/general music education and taught band and orchestra in Indiana before shifting to curriculum design and community education with the Louisville Orchestra. I left when my children were born and found a hobby in strength sports, specifically Strongman. It was through this hobby that I met the people who would inspire and mentor me through the process of becoming a coach. Back to the question at hand - How is a strength coach like a music teacher? First, what is a CSCS? According to NSCA.com, a CSCS is a professional who "applies scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance." All NCAA Division 1 Strength and Conditioning coaches are required to hold certifications such as the CSCS. We help athletes get stronger, faster, and more agile by evaluating each athlete and comparing his or her needs to the requirements of their sport, and then designing a program to help them improve their performance through the use of weight training and conditioning exercises. Above, Kathleen Bar tels with her of f icial cer tif icate upon completion of all requirements. At top, Bar tels was mentored by Dr. Mark Clevenger, PT, DPT, CSCS. and learned how to coach the log press, a competition lif t in the spor t of Strongman. How is a Strength Coach like a Music Teacher? Or, how I started a second career thanks to a Professional Development Grant