Becky Abrams, Athletic Trainer, CSCS, Sports Medicine Associate
Becky Abrams is a Sports Medicine Associate and a Licensed Athletic Trainer at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Becky joined Billings Clinic in 2006, and has been working in the industry for 10 years. Becky played sports her entire life when growing up, which led to her having a great interest in health, wellness, and science.
Becky has had the opportunity to work with a variety of sports including football, basketball, cross country, soccer, hockey, baseball, softball, tennis and track. The sports performance program has given Becky the opportunity to research areas of exercise physiology and human performance with many of our local elite athletes.
Becky’s favorite part of her job is that she loves working with kids and programs in the community. Strength and conditioning, injury prevention and exercise physiology are some of her desired areas of focus.
Becky was born in Great Falls, MT, but later moved to Miles City, MT where she was raised. She completed her undergraduate degree in Health and Human Performance from MSU-Billings, and then received her Master’s Degree in Athletic Training also from MSU-Billings. After coming to Billings and playing 4 years of college tennis at MSU-Billings, Becky decided Billings was a great place to live. She loves to spend time with her husband and two daughters, workout as a family, fish, and read.
The best training tip Becky can give a new athlete in training – “Push yourself outside your comfort zone. Those workouts or specific exercises that seem the hardest for you are the ones that are most likely benefiting you the most! Nutrition is one of the most important aspects of reaching your athletic potential. Emphasize good nutrition as much as possible.”
Theresa Benock, Occupational Therapist, CHT
From: Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2014
Education: Bachelor of Science - Home Economics, University of Kentucky, 1973
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Therapy, Eastern Kentucky University, 1978
Certifications: Occupational Therapist, 1979 to present
Certified Hand Therapist, 1994 to present
Certified Lymphedema Therapist, 2009 to present
Trained Neurodevelopmental Therapist for Adult Hemiplegia, 1987 to present
Experience:
Developed and implemented the first Occupational Therapy program in Lexington, KY school system, and in the state of Kentucky
Department Head Occupational Therapy, State Pediatric Residential Facility in Maryland
Developed and implemented the Occupational Therapy Program and became the coordinator of the department at Medical Center Hospital, Punta Gorda, Florida servicing both inpatient and outpatient needs.
Owner-Therapist of a Medicare Certified Outpatient Facility, Port Charlotte, Florida for 15 years with emphasis on orthopedic and neurologic impairments with a physician referral base of three counties.
Area Rehab Manager for six outpatient rehab facilities in Florida over seeing compliance of patient treatment, documentation and billing for Medicare patients in Adult Living Facilities
Home Health Therapist providing therapy to Medicare home bound patients
Job Responsibilities: Occupational therapist
Joe Bloyder, Physical Therapist, CSCS
From: Conway, Arkansas
Education: Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy 1989 from the University of Central Arkansas
Year started at Billings Clinic: 1996
Certifications: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 1990; SPARQ certified trainer since 2007
Experience: Past Manager of Orthopedic/PMR/Rehabilitation departments, Traveling Therapist
Job Responsibilities: Clinical Coordinator of outpatient rehab services and sports medicine programs, Physical Therapist at Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center, CSCS Responsibilities include assisting with various athletic enhancement camps and programs with our Sports Specific Training (SST) program
A.J. Bone, Physical Therapist, CSCS
From: Livingston, MT
Education: Bachelor of Science Rocky Mountain College 1981; Master of Physical Therapy from Regis University 1997; Doctor of Physical Therapy from Regis University 2007
Year started at Billings Clinic: 1998
Certifications: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) since 1989; SPARQ certified trainer since 2007
Experience: Billings High School football coach since 1981, past president of Montana state National Strength and Conditioning Association
Job Responsibilities: Physical Therapist at Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, CSCS Responsibilities include providing athletic enhancement training for individuals, small groups and camps, designing programs for speed and power camps in the Specific Training (SST) program
Amanda Botnen ATC, CSCS
From: Blaine, Minnesota
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2010
Education: Bachelor of Arts from St. Olaf College (2008), Master of Science in Athletic Training from Montana State University- Billings (2010)
Certifications: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Certified Athletic Trainer, Licensed Athletic Trainer
Experience: football, soccer, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, baseball, hockey, rodeo, Sport Specific Training (SST) camps and programs, IMPACT testing, strength and conditioning programs for college basketball teams at Rocky Mountain College, Health and Human Performance Assistant Professor at Rocky Mountain College
Responsibilities: assist with athletic training needs, assist with Sports Specific Training (SST) programs and camps, strength and conditioning program for women's basketball team at Rocky Mountain College, Health and Human Performance Assistant Professor at Rocky Mountain College
Brenda Brady, MS, ATC/LAT - Athletic Trainer
Brenda Brady is a certified and licensed athletic trainer at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Brenda joined Billings Clinic in 2009, and has been an athletic trainer for 13 years. Before joining Billings Clinic, Brenda had the opportunity to work and travel with the US Ski team. Brenda was a physical therapy patient of Joe Bloyder and Bill Dolan when she was in high school. During that time is when Brenda became very interested in sports medicine. Brenda’s favorite thing about being an athletic trainer is seeing an athlete come back from an injury, and enjoys seeing hard work pay off for an athlete.
Brenda was born and raised in Winnett, MT. She completed her undergraduate degree in Athletic Training from the University of Montana, and then went on to receive her Master’s degree in Exercise Science from the University of Montana. Brenda moved to Billings to be back in Montana and closer to her family where she enjoys spending time on their family’s ranch.
The best training tip Brenda can give a new athlete in training – “Take care of your body. Get the rest and good nutrition that your body needs.”
Bill Dolan, Physical Therapist
From: East Helena, MT
Education: Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (1985)
University of Montana
Certification: SPARQ Certified trainer since 2007
Year started at Billings Clinic: 1995
Job Responsibilities: Treatment of orthopedic patients at Orthopedic & Sports Medicine, assisting with athletic enhancement programs with our Sports Specific Training (SST) program.
Christina Erickson, RD
From: Billings, MT
Education: Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Master of Science in Health and Human Performance
Certification: Registered Dietitian, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2015
Experience: Clinical Dietitian, Weight Management, College Instructor, Athletes
Job Responsibilities: Registered Dietitian at Billings Clinic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center; medical nutrition therapy, weight loss education, and physical activity assessment/education.
Mark Goldy, Physical Therapist, Lead Athletic Trainer, CSCS
Mark Goldy is a Physical Therapist and the Lead Athletic Trainer at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Mark joined Billings Clinic in 2003, and has been involved in sports medicine for 13 years. As a high school athlete, Mark required rehabilitation for knee and elbow injuries. His experience with the athletic trainer motivated him to pursue a career in sports medicine.
Mark’s favorite thing about being an athletic trainer is being able to educate athletes on the proper way to train to enhance performance and minimize the potential for injury. Mark also enjoys being able to take an injured athlete through the entire rehabilitation process from initial injury to full return to play. Mark’s special interest is in training and rehabilitating baseball/softball players.
Mark was born and raised in Billings. He went on to complete his undergraduate degree in Health and Human Performance at the University of Montana. Afterwards Mark received his Master’s of Physical Therapy from the University of Montana. Mark returned to Billings to be near family and work in sports medicine. His hobbies include trying to keep up with two great children; while starting, but never finishing home remodeling projects.
The best training tip Mark can give a new athlete in training – “Build a strong base with proper technique; Develop through hard work and motivation; Take time to recover physically and mentally.”
Jennifer Herman, Sports Medicine Associate
Jennifer Herman is a Sports Medicine Associate at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Jennifer joined Billings Clinic in 2015 marking the start of her professional career in the industry. Jennifer realized she wanted to become an athletic trainer after how influential the athletic trainer at her high school was in discovering an injury. Jennifer’s favorite part of the job is helping a person recover fully from an injury.
Jennifer was born in Billings, and grew up in Park City, MT. She completed her undergraduate and Master’s Degree in Athletic Training from MSU-Billings. Jennifer has always enjoyed the area and likes being close to her family. She enjoys scrapping, hiking, and fly fishing outside of work.
The best training tip Jennifer can give a new athlete in training – “Ask questions from the veteran athletic trainers who have more personal experience.”
Kylie M Izzi, MS, ATC/LAT, CSCS, ITAT, USAW-1
Kylie Izzi is a certified and licensed athletic trainer at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Kylie joined Billings Clinic as a per diem in 2012, and then in 2014 became a full time employee. Kylie has been in the sports medicine and exercise science field for 9 years, and has been a certified athletic trainer for 5 years. Kylie’s favorite thing about being an athletic trainer is enjoying the variety of events and opportunities the Clinic provides for sports medicine coverage and helping athletes achieve personal goals.
Kylie was born and raised in Bainbridge Island, Washington. She completed her undergraduate degree at Rocky Mountain College, and then received her Master’s degree in Athletic Training from MSU-Billings. Kylie was attracted to Billings because she loves mountain biking, cycling, horseback riding and enjoying the outdoors.
The best training tip Kylie can give a new athlete in training – “Be humble and embrace failure.”
Mark Johnston, CSCS, USAW, Sports Medicine Associate
Mark Johnston is a Sports Medicine Associate and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Mark joined Billings Clinic in 2011, and has been CSCS certified since 2005. Mark started coaching youth football when he was in college, and realized that he would like to pursue a career where he could work with athletes in some capacity.
Mark enjoys coaching and has particular interests in strength and conditioning and working with teams in a competitive setting. He currently appreciates working with the coaches and teams at West High School.
Mark was born in Helena, MT, but later moved to Belgrade, MT where he was raised. Mark completed his undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Montana State University. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, biking, weight lifting, and running the chains for Skyview High School Football.
The best tip Mark can give an athlete in training – “IT ALL STARTS IN THE WEIGHT ROOM!!”
Adam Leachman, Physical Therapist
Adam Leachman is a Physical Therapist at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Adam joined Billings Clinic in 2002, and has been working in this field for over 15 years. As an athlete through high school and college, Adam was exposed to a variety of injuries. This sparked his interest in the field of Physical Therapy. In his freshman year at MSU, his grandfather had a stroke and went through extensive therapy including speech, OT and PT. During this time, Adam really decided to pursue a career in Physical Therapy.
As a Physical Therapist at Billings Clinic, Adam had the unique opportunity to take a trip with the Junior Olympic Alpine Ski team to Spain. While working with the team he had the pleasure of being the onsite Physical Therapist for seven male and seven female US athletes. A few of which went on to participate as Olympic level athletes.
Adam’s favorite part of his job is watching the progression of patients return to their prior level of function. In particular, he enjoys watching the athletes return to competition. Adam also enjoys working with motivated people in a group fitness situation, such as the Ski Strong clinics that Billings Clinic has been doing for several years. Outside of athletes returning to competition, Adam carries a strong interest in fitness for life – specifically how to stay fit throughout your life so you can enjoy all of your physical pursuits.
Adam was born and raised in Bozeman, MT. He remained in Bozeman to complete his undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Montana State University. Adam then received a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Arizona School of Health Science at A.T. Still University. Outside of work Adam attends local high school sports, snowboards, fly fishes, and travels.
The best training tip Adam can give a new athlete in training – “Stay focused, commit to the end. Learn more about nutrition. Listen to your coaches.”
Deke Lundman, Physical Therapist
From: Billings, MT
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Concordia College in 1997, Master of Physical Therapy from University of Mary in 1999
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2000
Certifications: SPARQ certified trainer since 2007
Experience: Orthopedic and Sports Medicine physical therapist at Billings Clinic , Orthopedic and Sports Medicine physical therapist for 1 year in Honolulu, Hawaii, working with amateur, collegiate, and professional triathletes.
Job Responsibilities: Physical Therapist at Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center
Christine McFaydean, Physical Therapist, CSCS
From: Stanford, Montana
Education: BS in Biology from Rocky Mountain College 2003, Doctorate of Physical Therapy University of Montana 2006
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2006
Certifications: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) 2006 Experience: All American Volleyball player Rocky Mountain College
Job Responsibilities: Physical therapist at Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center, CSCS Responsibilities include athletic enhancement design and training for individuals and camps in the SST program
Doug Nickels, Athletic Trainer
Doug Nickels is a Sports Medicine Associate and a Licensed Athletic Trainer at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. He joined Billings Clinic in 2009 and has been working in this field for 10 years. Before starting at Billings Clinic, Doug completed an internship with the Minnesota Vikings in 2006. Doug was drawn to sports medicine and particularly athletic training because he never had an athletic trainer in high school when he was injured. Doug thought it would be fun to help athletes recover from injury sparking his interest in athletic training more. Doug’s favorite part of his job is being able to help athletes get back into competition.
Doug grew up in Mobridge, SD. He completed his undergraduate degree in Athletic Training at the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. The job opportunity and the community of Billings is what made Doug come further west to Billings Clinic.
The best training tip Doug can give a new athlete in training – “Do your best.”
Paula Pasek, Occupational Therapist, CHT
From: Chaseburg, Wisconsin
Education: Masters of Occupational therapy from Texas Women’s University 1992
Year started at Billings Clinic: 1999
Certifications: Certified Hand Therapist
Job Responsibilities: Occupational Therapist, Certified Hand Therapist at the Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center specializing in treatment of upper extremity orthopedic/trauma hand injuries
Kacie Sanderson, Sports Medicine Associate
Kacie Sanderson is a Sports Medicine Associate and a Licensed Athletic Trainer at Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Kacie joined Billings Clinic in 2014, and has been working in this field for 3 years. Kacie participated in athletics growing up and was exposed to an athletic trainer in her high school. She knew that she wanted to help future athletes after injuries and to achieve their goals.
Kacie worked as a graduate assistant in Van, Texas for 2 years. This was a unique experience for Kacie as it showed her how much diversity there is between high school athletics in different states. During her time there the softball team she worked with was the state 3A runner up out of over 1000 teams, and played the final 2 games at the University of Texas softball fields in Austin, Texas.
Kacie’s favorite part of her job is how she really enjoys seeing the individuals she works with succeed after an injury, especially when the odds are against them.
Kacie was born in Billings and raised in Laurel. She completed her undergraduate degree at Dakota Wesleyan University in Athletic Training while playing on the volleyball team all four years. Kacie later went on to receive her Master’s Degree from the University of Texas at Tyler in Kinesiology. With her family still living in Laurel, Kacie wanted to return closer to home. She enjoys camping, boating, and fishing during the summer months. During the fall/winter she enjoys going hunting and being outdoors.
The best training tip Kacie can give a new athlete in training – “Learn the fundamentals of movements and the more complex movements will become easier.”
Cherie Straus, CSCS
From: Butte, MT
Education: Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health from Montana Tech, Butte, MT.
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2009
Certifications: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) since 2002.
Experience: Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor since 1990. Fitness business owner since 2007. Previous and current experience working with the following sports (both individuals and teams); basketball, volleyball, softball, baseball, track, long distance running.
Job Responsibilities: CSCS responsibilities with the Sports Specific Training (SST) program. Assist with program implementation and design.
Ryan Strecker, Physical Therapist
From: Billings, MT
Education: Bachelor of Science for Health and Human Performance from MSU-Billings 2005, Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of Montana 2008
Year started at Billings Clinic: 2008
Job Responsibilities: Outpatient/Sports Medicine physical therapist responsible for evaluation and treatment of patients with a variety of orthopedic injuries and conditions as well as pre and post operative care.
