Shawna Johnston DPT ’16
Capital City Go-Go/Washington Wizards
Performance Physical Therapist and Care Coordinator

THE PATH TO ELITE SPORTS for Shawna (Israel) Johnston DPT ’16 wasn’t a direct one. There were many experiences along the way that helped shape her into the talented, dedicated rehabilitation professional she is today. The DPT alumna works for Monumental Sports and Entertainment, a company that owns several sports teams — including the Washington Wizards and Capital City Go-Go, both of whom she works with — as well as venues and a broadcast network. In her role, Johnston coordinates care between the Washington Wizards and Capital City Go-Go as assignments and two-way players transition between the two teams. We caught up with her to learn more about her dream career, working with NBA greats in the D.C. area.

How did you first get started with your career in elite sports?
In 2023, I joined Monumental Sports as the head athletic trainer and physical therapist for the Capital City Go-Go. In this capacity, I also assisted with the NBA draft process and coordinated the medical staff for the NBA Summer League.

What is a typical day like for you?
In my setting, there is truly no typical day! With my caseload with either the Wizards or Go-Go, I provide treatment to my athletes both on practice and game days. We also have daily meetings as a medical and performance staff to discuss athlete updates and any organizational updates. I will generally touch base with the performance staff regarding any updates from our shared athletes to discuss any pertinent information. I also observe practice and am present for any acute medical injuries to triage as necessary.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of the job?
Watching my athletes succeed on the court! Nothing is more valuable or rewarding than watching an athlete you rehabilitated perform well during a game. It’s the beauty of watching your work unfold; all of the effort that went into coordinating care with other staff members (such as performance staff, coaches, etc) comes to fruition for the benefit of the athlete. Working daily alongside passionate and intelligent individuals helps make the planning around the athlete not just enjoyable but also successful.

How would you say your DPT studies at USC prepared you for an eventual career in sports rehabilitation?
USC gave me the foundational knowledge that I constantly look to when I have a challenging athlete presentation. The course content helped prepare me for a variety of patient populations and circumstances. The professors also encouraged us to use any and all resources available and challenged us to “think outside the box” at times to make the most informed decisions. I am grateful for my clinical internships and amazing clinical instructors who pushed me to the best of my ability and continually challenged me beyond what was expected.

What is the best advice you could give a current or prospective student looking to emulate your career path?
It may sound cliché, but do not give up! I chose a unique career path that was not necessarily the path that led directly to what I had envisioned for myself. I worked in a variety of settings where I had diverse experiences, and that helped formulate my decision making and clinical reasoning. This would not have happened if I went directly into professional sports where you do not have the additional resources. My path also led me to work alongside some great mentors and have exposure to situations that I still reference today. Some things also may not be meant for you; however, I believe it always works out how it’s supposed to for your individual journey.

What does it mean to you to be blazing a trail for future women in sports?
I’m genuinely honored! I hope other women will look to my career path and use their own passions to drive them to pursue their own career aspirations. I hope they feel empowered and that they know there is a community of women who will support their endeavors and aspirations.