Once My Athlete, Always My Athlete

“Once my athlete, always my athlete.”

That’s been my motto for more than 20 years.

Back when I worked with high school athletes, I told them that once they were under my care, they could always reach out—even years later.

Whether they needed help with an injury, guidance for a training goal, a letter of recommendation, or just advice from someone they trusted, my answer was always the same: I’m here.

And they did reach out.

Over the years, I’ve had former athletes reconnect with me.

Some came back as clients at Restore Thrive, working through injuries or chasing new goals as adults.

Others took their experience into their professional lives—becoming physical therapists, athletic trainers, coaches, and personal trainers.

Some are even colleagues in my own professional network now. Honestly, nothing makes me prouder than to see that ripple effect.

Now, here at Restore Thrive, that motto carries even more weight. It’s no longer just a phrase—it’s how we operate every single day.

Dr. Tim Cummings says it best: “You do not have an expiration date.” 

That’s a powerful reminder that healing and growth aren’t on a stopwatch.

There’s no rush to cram recovery into a set number of visits or bend to the timelines of an insurance company.

Instead, we get to take the time to do this right—for you, your body, and your life.

We have time to plan. 

We have time to talk.

We have time to pivot when life throws a curveball. 

We have time to evolve.

Because your journey isn’t a straight line, and it’s not bound by a ticking clock.

As your goals shift, as new challenges appear, and as you grow into the person you want to be—we’ll be right there alongside you.

Once my athlete, always my athlete.

Once our client, always our client.

So if you’ve made it this far in reading—don’t stop now.

This is only the beginning of what’s possible.

WHAT'S NEXT

If you’re ready to build strength, recover from injury, or take your training to the next level, Restore Thrive is here for you—today and years from now. Schedule your first visit and start your journey.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dennis Dolan is the Head of Athletic Training at Restore/Thrive.

A Kansas City native, Dennis went to Rockhurst High School and graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science and Athletic Training and a Master's Degree in Kinesiology and Biomechanics.

He has practiced as a licensed athletic trainer for the last 20 years, helping high school athletes get back on the field faster, and designing strength and conditioning programs to help high school, collegiate, and professional athletes perform their best.

In addition to his work as an athletic trainer, Dennis is a Power Athlete Certified Coach, Pain-Free Performance Specialist (PPSC), and CrossFit Level 1 certified coach.