Samuel Hodge | Kinesiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Samuel Hodge | Kinesiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at The Ohio State University, United States

Dr. Samuel R. Hodge is a distinguished Professor of Kinesiology at The Ohio State University, renowned for his contributions to diversity, disability, and social justice in education and sport. He earned his Ph.D. in Education from The Ohio State University and has since dedicated his career to researching and advocating for inclusive practices in physical education. His scholarly work critically examines the experiences of Black male student-athletes and the inclusion of students with disabilities in sports, co-editing influential publications such as Black Males and Intercollegiate Athletics: An Exploration of Problems and Solutions. Dr. Hodge’s professional experience extends beyond academia, as he actively mentors students and influences curriculum development to promote equity. Recognized for his impactful research, he has published extensively in high-profile journals, shaping policies and practices in kinesiology. His dedication to fostering an inclusive and just educational environment has positioned him as a leading voice in the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Samuel R. Hodge pursued his academic journey with a strong commitment to education, diversity, and inclusion in kinesiology. He earned his Ph.D. in Education from The Ohio State University, where he developed a passion for research on disability, social justice, and the experiences of underrepresented groups in sports and physical education. Prior to his doctoral studies, Dr. Hodge obtained a Master’s degree in Special Education, which provided him with foundational knowledge in adaptive learning strategies and inclusive teaching methodologies. His undergraduate studies were rooted in physical education, which laid the groundwork for his career in academia and research. Throughout his educational journey, he cultivated an interdisciplinary approach, integrating kinesiology, special education, and social justice to address critical issues in sports and education. His academic background has been instrumental in shaping his influential research and teaching philosophy, making him a leading scholar in the field of adapted physical activity.

Professional Experience

Dr. Samuel R. Hodge has had an extensive and impactful professional career in the fields of education, kinesiology, and adapted physical activity. He has served as a professor at The Ohio State University, where he has dedicated decades to teaching, mentoring, and conducting research on diversity, disability, and inclusion in physical education. As a scholar, Dr. Hodge has contributed significantly to the academic community through numerous publications, conference presentations, and collaborative research projects focused on social justice and equity in sports and education. His expertise in adapted physical activity has allowed him to work closely with educators, policymakers, and organizations to develop inclusive curricula and programs that promote accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, Dr. Hodge has held leadership roles in professional associations and editorial boards, further influencing the field through his scholarship and advocacy. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to fostering inclusivity and advancing knowledge in education and kinesiology.

Research interest

Dr. Samuel R. Hodge’s research interests center on diversity, equity, and inclusion in physical education, adapted physical activity, and kinesiology. His work focuses on understanding the experiences of individuals with disabilities and those from underrepresented communities in physical education and sports. He has conducted extensive research on social justice issues, advocating for inclusive policies and practices that ensure equal opportunities for all students, regardless of ability or background. Dr. Hodge explores cultural competence among educators and the role of intersectionality in shaping experiences in physical activity settings. His scholarship aims to bridge gaps in accessibility and representation, promoting a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. Through his research, he contributes to the development of frameworks and strategies that enhance teacher preparation and professional development. His commitment to these topics has made him a leading voice in the field, influencing both policy and practice in adapted physical activity and kinesiology.

Award & Honor

Dr. Samuel R. Hodge has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to adapted physical activity, diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. He has been honored by prestigious organizations such as the National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education (NAKHE) and the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America) for his groundbreaking research and advocacy efforts. His dedication to inclusive education has earned him lifetime achievement awards and distinguished scholar recognitions, highlighting his impact on the field. Additionally, Dr. Hodge has been recognized for his excellence in teaching, mentorship, and leadership, receiving accolades from academic institutions and professional associations. His contributions have not only shaped policies and practices but have also inspired future scholars and educators. Through his commitment to social justice in physical education and kinesiology, Dr. Hodge continues to be a highly respected and celebrated figure in his discipline.

Conclusion

Dr. Samuel R. Hodge strongly qualifies for the Best Researcher Award. His three-decade-long career reflects consistent, high-quality research output, significant grant acquisition, impactful mentorship, and leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the academic and broader community. While expanding his outreach and incorporating emerging trends could further elevate his influence, his overall profile demonstrates excellence worthy of recognition.

Publications Top Noted

  • Perspectives on Inclusion in Physical Education From Faculty and Students at Three Physical Education Teacher Education Programs in Chile

    • Authors: Arroyo-Rojas, F., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: Journal of Teaching in Physical Education
    • Citations: 1
  • Developing and Testing a Mobile Application for Autistic Children Participating in a Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program at a Midwestern Equine Assisted Service Center: An Exploratory Sequential Mixed Methods Study

    • Authors: Meera, B., Fields, B.E., Hodge, S.R., Roth, K., & Columna, L.A.
    • Journal: Journal of Mixed Methods Research
    • Citations: 0
  • Phenomenological Research Involving Students with Disabilities in Physical Education: A Systematic Literature Review

    • Authors: Arroyo-Rojas, F., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: Quest
    • Citations: 5
  • Curricular and Pedagogical Barriers to South Korean Female Students’ Physical Activity in Physical Education Class

    • Authors: Kim, M., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: International Journal of Inclusive Education
    • Citations: 3
  • Experiences and Perspectives of College Students With Disabilities Toward Integrated Physical Education in South Korea

    • Authors: Lee, S., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: Journal of Teaching in Physical Education
    • Citations: 0
  • Perceptions of Pre-Service Special Education Teachers in South Korea Toward Teaching Physical Education for Students with Disabilities

    • Authors: Lee, S., Zbacnik, A., Hodge, S.R., & Kim, K.
    • Journal: International Journal of Inclusive Education
    • Citations: 0
  • Using Traditional Activities from Around the World in Physical Education

    • Authors: Kim, M., Martínez-Rivera, C., Arroyo-Rojas, F., Watanabe, R., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: Strategies
    • Citations: 0
  • Claiming Voice and Visibility for International East-Asian Kinesiology Students

    • Authors: Park, S., Kim, M., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: Quest
    • Citations: 1
  • Intersectionality, Disability, Justice, and Critical Pedagogy (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: Hodge, S.R., Jordan, R.D., & Smith, K.J.
    • Citations: 5
  • Social Justice Research in Physical Education Teacher Education: Contextualized in the United States
    • Authors: Delk, D.W., Vaughn, M., & Hodge, S.R.
    • Journal: Journal of Teaching in Physical Education
    • Citations: 4

 

Jelena Aleksic | Sports Science, Biomechanics, Motion Analysis | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Jelena Aleksic | Sports Science, Biomechanics, Motion Analysis | Young Scientist Award

Junior researcher, PhD student at University of Belgrade, Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, Serbia

Jelena Aleksic, born on March 17, 1993, in Kraljevo, Serbia, is a dedicated researcher in the field of Sport Sciences. She is currently a Junior Researcher at the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Sport and Physical Education. Her expertise spans biomechanics, artificial intelligence applications in sports, and rehabilitation. With a passion for innovation, she integrates technology into sports science to enhance athletic performance and injury prevention. Jelena collaborates on international projects, working with institutions such as the University of Kansas and the University of the Algarve. Recognized for her academic excellence, she has received accolades for her contributions to research. Her commitment to advancing sports science through evidence-based methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration positions her as a promising young scientist.

Professional Profile

Education

Jelena Aleksic pursued her academic journey at the University of Belgrade, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sports and Physical Education in 2021. She furthered her education with an MSc in Sports and Physical Education in 2022, focusing on biomechanics and movement analysis. Currently, she is a PhD candidate in Sports and Physical Education, where her research explores markerless motion capture techniques and their applications in sports performance assessment. Her academic trajectory demonstrates a consistent pursuit of knowledge and specialization in integrating artificial intelligence with sports science. Jelena’s academic excellence has been acknowledged through prestigious awards, reinforcing her reputation as a leading young researcher. Her educational background, combined with her hands-on research, contributes to the evolution of sports science, bridging the gap between traditional methodologies and modern technological advancements.

Professional Experience

Jelena Aleksic is a Junior Researcher at the Methodological Research Laboratory (MIL) within the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Sport and Physical Education. Her role involves conducting biomechanical research, analyzing athletic performance, and developing innovative training methodologies. She actively participates in international projects, such as the Erasmus+ “Resilience Development in Higher Education” initiative, collaborating with renowned institutions. Additionally, Jelena is involved in Alzheimer’s disease research, focusing on strategies to prevent cognitive decline through physical activity interventions. She has also gained international exposure through research visits to institutions like the University of Kansas and Università degli Studi Suor Orsola Benincasa in Naples. Beyond research, she has experience as a teaching assistant in various schools, demonstrating her commitment to education and knowledge dissemination. Her diverse professional engagements highlight her ability to integrate research, teaching, and international collaboration in the field of sports science.

Research Interests

Jelena Aleksic’s research interests lie at the intersection of sports biomechanics, artificial intelligence, and rehabilitation sciences. She is particularly focused on advancing motion capture techniques, integrating markerless pose estimation methods for precise athletic performance assessments. Her work aims to enhance training methodologies and injury prevention strategies by leveraging AI-based analytical tools. Additionally, she explores the role of physical activity in cognitive health, collaborating on projects related to Alzheimer’s disease prevention. Jelena’s research contributes to developing innovative sports technology solutions, improving athlete monitoring and rehabilitation programs. She is also interested in optimizing sports performance through data-driven approaches, ensuring athletes achieve peak efficiency while minimizing injury risks. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining biomechanics, neuroscience, and technology, makes her a significant contributor to the evolution of sports science.

Awards and Honors

Jelena Aleksic has received multiple accolades for her academic and research excellence. She was honored as the Best Doctoral Student for the academic years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 at the University of Belgrade, recognizing her outstanding academic performance and contributions to sports science research. Her research papers, published in high-impact journals such as Sensors and Life, have been widely acknowledged in the field. In addition to academic awards, Jelena has been actively involved in international collaborations, strengthening her reputation as a promising researcher. She has also played a leadership role in sports education events, such as the Belgrade Sports Fair, where she supervised student volunteers. These honors underscore her dedication, expertise, and potential to make significant advancements in sports science, positioning her as an emerging leader in her field.

Conclusion

Jelena Aleksic’s academic achievements, research involvement, and dedication to advancing sports science make her a strong candidate for a Young Scientist Award. By focusing on increasing the impact of her publications and seeking further international exposure, she can strengthen her candidacy and contribute significantly to her field.

Publications Top Noted

  • Cabarkapa, D., Cabarkapa, D. V., Aleksic, J., Philipp, N. M., Scott, A. A., et al.
    • Title: Differences in countermovement vertical jump force-time metrics between starting and non-starting professional male basketball players
    • Journal: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: 13
  • Philipp, N. M., Cabarkapa, D., Marten, K. M., Cabarkapa, D. V., Mirkov, D. M., et al.
    • Title: Horizontal deceleration performance in professional female handball players
    • Journal: Biomechanics
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: 10
  • Aleksić, J.
    • Title: Computer Vision Solutions for Range of Motion Assessment
    • Journal: Southeastern European Medical Journal: SEEMEDJ
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: 3
  • Aleksić, J., Gkatzaveli, S., Tasić, L., Obrenović, M., Stojanović, N., Ćuk, I.
    • Title: THE CONCURRENT VALIDITY OF MOTION X-RAY TECHNOLOGY UTILISING POLAR VERITY SENSE TO MEASURE VELOCITY, FORCE AND POWER–PILOT STUDY.
    • Journal: TEME: Casopis za Društvene Nauke
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: 2
  • Aleksić, J., Kanevsky, D., Mesaroš, D., Knezevic, O. M., Cabarkapa, D., et al.
    • Title: Validation of Automated Countermovement Vertical Jump Analysis: Markerless Pose Estimation vs. 3D Marker-Based Motion Capture System
    • Journal: Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Cabarkapa, D., Cabarkapa, D. V., Aleksic, J., Mihajlovic, F., Fry, A. C.
    • Title: The Impact of the Official Basketball Champions League Game on Lower-Body Neuromuscular Performance Characteristics
    • Journal: The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Cabarkapa, D., Johnson, Q. R., Aleksic, J., Cabarkapa, D. V., Philipp, N. M., et al.
    • Title: Comparison of vertical jump and sprint performances between 3× 3 and 5× 5 elite professional male basketball players
    • Journal: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Considerando, D. P. P. C., y Explosividad, F. M.
    • Title: Different Body Partialization Procedures Considering Maximum Strength and Explosiveness: Factorial Analysis Approach
    • Journal: Int. J. Morphol
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Aleksić, J., Mesaroš, D., Kanevsky, D., Knežević, O. M., Cabarkapa, D., Faj, L., et al.
    • Title: Advancing Field-Based Vertical Jump Analysis: Markerless Pose Estimation vs. Force Plates
    • Journal: Life
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Cabarkapa, D., Aleksic, J., Krsman, D., Cabarkapa, D. V., Philipp, N. M., Fry, A. C.
    • Title: The impact of simulated 3×3 tournament on vertical jump force-time metrics in national team male basketball players
    • Journal: Frontiers in Physiology
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Cabarkapa, D. V., Cabarkapa, D., Aleksic, J., Ranisavljev, I., Fry, A. C.
    • Title: Does the short-term learning effect impact vertical jump performance assessment on a portable force plate system?
    • Journal: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Rodić, F., Bečanović, F., Aleksić, J., Mirkov, D., Jovanović, K.
    • Title: Synchronization of Motion Capture and Forceplate Data for Analysis of Vertical Jumping
    • Conference: 11th International Conference on Electrical, Electronic and Computing…
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Cabarkapa, D., Cabarkapa, D. V., Aleksic, J., Scott, A. A., Fry, A. C.
    • Title: Relationship between vertical jump performance and playing time and efficiency in professional male basketball players
    • Journal: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Radovic, K., Cabarkapa, D., Aleksic, J., Cabarkapa, D. V., Mirkov, D. M., et al.
    • Title: Vertical jump neuromuscular performance of professional female handball players—starters vs. non-starters comparison
    • Journal: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 1
  • Bianco, A.
    • Title: Conference on Exercise and Quality of Life
    • Journal: BMC Proceedings
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: N/A