Doug Hankes, PhD: Division volunteer

I had excellent mentors in graduate school who were involved in Division 47 leadership and encouraged me to not only join the division, but to also volunteer and get involved.

I was first asked to be the associate editor of the division’s newsletter (ESPNews) responsible for book reviews and interviews... back when a printed newsletter actually was an important benefit of being a member. This led to becoming the editor of the newsletter for 4 years. I have also served as secretary-treasurer, president, and now, council representative. I think most folks who serve in multiple leadership roles do so because you get a reputation of getting things done... and have a hard time saying “no” to others when you’re asked to help out.

Hands down the most important and rewarding aspect of involvement has been the number of amazing individuals I have been privileged to work and interact with over the years. It has made my professional career so much more rewarding and enriching.

Being a sport psychologist is endlessly interesting, whether it’s working with elite athletes and helping them achieve their performance and personal goals, or using exercise and movement with clients who are struggling with mental health issues. I think the work that is done in sport psychology lends itself more to getting to see growth and change in real time that sometimes you don’t get to see as a psychologist in a traditional setting.

Get involved, learn the organization, roll up your sleeves, and start by doing the work maybe nobody else wants to do. Others will appreciate you, and you will benefit in ways that might not be obvious at first. You won’t be disappointed.

Anywhere on the Appalachian Trail (AT). I think about the AT every single day, and it’s always on my next thing on my travel list. Thru-hiking and long-distance hiking is Type-2 fun at its best. The physical and mental challenges are intense, and yet the act of hiking, putting one foot in front of the other, is simple. A day on the trail usually consists of figuring out about how far do you want to go before setting up your tent for the night, considering the weather, and where are the water sources? That’s it. No cellphones. Just time spent in your head and being immersed in nature.

Moving my body.

Contact: Doug Hankes