In response to the increasing demand for sports physiotherapy professionals, PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS), in collaboration with PolyU’s School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED) and The Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association (HKPA), hosted a seminar titled “The Opportunity, Rewards, and Challenges as a Sports Physiotherapist” in March 2024. During the event, a groundbreaking Professional Certificate Course in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy was also announced.

Esteemed guests attended the seminar, including Dr Lam Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Mr Sam Wong Tak-sum, Commissioner for Sports, Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, Sports and Recreation Branch, HKSAR Government; Mr Wong Po-kee, Honorary Deputy Secretary General of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China; key faculty members of RS and SPEED, and executive committee members of HKPA.

SPEED and HKPA signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly introduce a first-of-its-kind six-month part-time Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy at HKQF Level 6 in July 2024, which is tailored for registered physiotherapists in Hong Kong who are seeking to specialise in sports physiotherapy. The comprehensive curriculum is designed by specialists from RS, covering essential elements of sports physiotherapy. The programme boasts a team of distinguished tutors, including academics from RS and experienced sports physiotherapists from HKPA. Enrolment will open in May 2024. Please visit here for details of the programme.

During the event, Mr Sam Wong Tak-sum, also a retired athlete, shared his insights into the evolution of mass and elite sports in Hong Kong, emphasising the pivotal role played by sports physiotherapists. In addition, prominent athletes, such as basketball player Mr Lee Ki, and footballer Mr Yapp Hung-fai, shared their experiences with sports physiotherapy, along with seasoned sports physiotherapist Ms Bonnie Lau.