GLORIA KIEFER-PRESTON: A CAREER DEDICATED TO KEEPING ATHLETES MOVING

By Simi Jayeoba, writer for Marauders.ca

For Gloria Kiefer-Preston, forward is the direction that has marked her long and diverse career in the world of sport physiotherapy. Behind all her accomplishments as a physiotherapist, mother, clinic manager and beyond is the driving force that propels her forward – kindness.

Following in her father's footsteps, Kiefer-Preston entered the world of sport at the early age of nine when she began playing soccer. Her love and excellence in sport extended to track and field, leading to recruitment at the University of Toronto. Following her first year, the two-sport varsity athlete found her way back to the sport she first fell in love with and, what's more, she continued playing soccer competitively until the age of 39.

Competing at such a high level, it was difficult to avoid every athlete's worst nightmare – injury. But for Kiefer-Preston, setbacks became a step forward and according to her, "life is all about timing." While recovering from injuries in high school she was introduced to the world of sport physiotherapy. This came at a time when she needed guidance in balancing her love for healthcare and sport – and thus began a career spanning decades and touching the lives of many.

After completing her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy, Kiefer-Preston returned to the clinic where she had received treatment for injuries - but now in the reverse role. Over the next three years, her desire to help others led her to continue serving in many communities and university programs.

The next chapter in Kiefer-Preston's life was truly groundbreaking.

"I was accepted to be the first Sport Physio Fellow in Canada at the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic at the University of Western Ontario" said Kiefer-Preston. This program, which had long existed at the world-renowned clinic for orthopedic surgery and primary care sport medicine, was the first of its kind in Canada.

"The clinic is a place to inspire and be inspired. I was at a point in life where I wanted to grow professionally and be exposed to diverse scenarios and sport medicine professionals who were leaders in health care. I was able to work in an outstanding facility and institution. The experience provided a skill set that enabled me to take on other rewarding career endeavors."

Kiefer-Preston remained at the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic for seven years, working alongside mentors like Dr. Peter Fowler, Dr. Sandy Kirkley, and countless practitioners. During this time, Kiefer-Preston also obtained her Sport Certificate from Sport Physiotherapy Canada.

"I have covered, organized and been lead therapist on too many events to name" she said. These include her role as Chief Physiotherapist at the Commonwealth Rowing Championships, the London 2001 Canada Summer Games, and the Road Cycling Championship in 2003 right here in Hamilton.

Entering Ontario's hockey world as a young and talented woman, Kiefer-Preston made strides down a road void of those resembling her. "As far as I know, there were next to no female 'trainers' in the hockey world of Ontario 30 years ago. I worked many games in many cities without ever coming across another female therapist."

But as she has always done, Kiefer-Preston moved forward, and showed up every day doing her best work. Two seasons later, this work assisted her AAA Hockey team to a National Championship.

As if this wasn't enough, Kiefer-Preston assisted the Junior B league of Southwestern Ontario into two consecutive championship titles, proving again that her hands – manicured or not – were more than capable.

Beyond the world class instruction, the Fowler Kennedy Clinic was special for another reason. It was where Kiefer-Preston met her husband, former Western Men's Volleyball head coach, and now long-time McMaster head coach, Dave Preston.

When talking about her family – her anchors as she calls them – Kiefer-Preston's face lights up. "My happiest life moments are supporting my family in their goals and endeavors. You could write a book on Dave's accomplishments, awards, successes, championships, international experiences…my kids are pretty awesome too."

As fate would have it, when Dave accepted the offer of head coach for the McMaster Men's Volleyball team, the university was also in need of a physiotherapist. And so, McMaster University became an important part of the pair's story, and that of their children.

"The Athletics & Recreation department was defined by a family culture. Our children have literally grown up on this campus and were woven into the fabric of the McMaster Marauder Way. I can't tell you the number of events they have attended in the Burridge Gym, 10 Acre Field, Thérèse Quigley Sport Hall, Ron Joyce Stadium, Sport Fitness School…helping mom fold clinic towels, getting ice packs for athletes post game….it takes a village and that is the very type of environment you want to work in and raise children in," says Kiefer-Preston.

Thérèse Quigley was central in developing the atmosphere that created what Kiefer-Preston loves about McMaster. About Thérèse, Kiefer-Preston describes, "...an incredible mentor and a living example of how to connect with people and manage relationships."

She continued, "I truly believe that my successes in life have been in large part from building relationships through kindness and empathy." Kiefer-Preston's approach reflects a focus on helping, tolerance, and shying away from the spotlight. When asked about the many mentors she has had, she remarks, "I am grateful and fortunate and truly stand on the shoulders of those that have shown compassion and strength of character."

Kiefer-Preston is also quick to shine the spotlight on the many other female superstars involved in McMaster's athletic department. "We've got female Olympians on staff, new football coaches, previous therapists for professional teams. There are so many others – perhaps less visual, prominent, or less vocal – but we are all here to help each other – and I guess that starts with the knowledge and awareness of who is here and what their story might be."

Refusing to remain comfortable, when the opportunity to become the clinic manager at McMaster's multi-disciplinary David Braley Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre presented itself, Kiefer-Preston welcomed the opportunity to explore a new aspect of healthcare with open arms. "I suppose at the end of the day, I was up for a new challenge. Because…who doesn't need a career change at age 46." Kiefer-Preston continued,
"My role has shifted from providing direct care to our team of patients to providing support to our incredible team of staff and practitioners who serve our patients and community. I enjoy being a bridge builder on teams and collaborating with like-minded individuals who share similar values."

Again, at the core of everything she does is the desire to help others. When asked about her intentions for the future, Kiefer-Preston simply remarks, "The plan is to just keep moving forwards and show up and do your best every day."

In alignment with her life's purpose, Gloria Kiefer-Preston wants everyone to know, "I am here to help!"

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