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We recently sat down with Jakob Thelle, former University of Hawaiʻi men’s volleyball standout, two-time national champion, and Player of the Year, to talk about his journey as a professional athlete — and how PT Hawaii is helping him stay at the top of his game.

After an incredible run at UH from 2018 to 2023, Jakob took his talents overseas, competing in Italy, France, and now gearing up for his third professional season in Poland. But the road hasn’t been without challenges.

Facing Setbacks: The Toll of Knee Injuries

“Knee injuries have affected me in a multitude of ways — especially the fact that I couldn’t keep playing at a high level,” Jakob shared. “Doing things on my own wasn’t really working out, so I knew I had to get my body straight and in the best shape possible if I wanted to keep competing.”

That’s when he was recommended to PT Hawaii. “I was really fortunate to find a spot here,” he said. “I’m lucky to get the best help over here.”

Finding Family and Support at PT Hawaii

What stood out most for Jakob was the atmosphere.

“The whole atmosphere here at PT Hawaii is truly incredible,” he explained. “It feels like family — you’re welcomed with a smile, and everybody takes care of you. The training is next level, and I know I’m in the best place possible.”

This year of rehab has shifted more than just his physical health.

“It really changed the way I live my life,” Jakob reflected. “I had to put my health first. I feel better mentally, and physically I’m at a better point now than before I came here.”

Advice to Athletes: Don’t Go It Alone

Jakob is quick to encourage other athletes — and anyone dealing with an injury — to seek help instead of trying to recover solo.

“I would recommend PT Hawaii to every athlete or person going through an injury,” he said. “If you’re injured, you need to make a full recovery — and doing it on your own isn’t going to work. Take care of your body, because you only have one.”

Looking Ahead

Now preparing for another season overseas, Jakob feels stronger, healthier, and ready to keep pushing his career forward.

“This is the best place to be on island. If you’re going through something, seek out help — PT Hawaii is the place to be.”

We caught up with Kawika Shoji, a two-time Olympian and former professional volleyball player, to talk about life after retirement — and how physical therapy is playing a key role in his recovery and long-term health.

After 12 years competing at the highest level and representing Team USA in two Olympic Games, Kawika’s career may have shifted, but his drive to stay strong and mobile hasn’t gone anywhere.

A New Chapter Begins: Post-Surgery Rehab

Following a recent hip surgery, Kawika began physical therapy here at PT Hawaii — a decision rooted in his determination to not just recover but thrive.

“I want to get back to the level of play I experienced before,” Kawika shared. “I want to be strong; I want to be mobile — and I also want to play with my kids for the foreseeable future in the long term.”

For a lifelong athlete, the stakes are no longer about medals or championships — they’re about quality of life, presence with family, and the ability to move freely for years to come.

Discipline, Consistency, and the Right Mindset

Kawika was quick to point out that physical therapy isn’t always easy. It takes discipline, time, and hard work — qualities he knows well from his years on the court.

“But it’s really important for your overall wellbeing,” he emphasized. “Adopting and having the right mentality can really help you stick with the plan for the long term”

Why Kawika Chose PT Hawaii

When we asked what brought him to PT Hawaii, Kawika didn’t hesitate:

“Definitely recommend PT Hawaii, they have great physical therapists, great staff and a really positive environment. It’s close to downtown Kaka’ako, centrally located for me, so that’s a big plus.”

He also gave a special shoutout to his PT, Skyler, who’s been guiding him through the recovery process. “Thankful for the team here, for Skyler, my PT, who’s really helped me look forward to keep coming back and strengthening my hips and getting ready to partake in more sporting activities.”

Looking Ahead

As Kawika continues his journey through rehab, his goals are clear: stay active, stay strong, and be present — both on the court and at home.

Whether you're a lifelong athlete or simply looking to move and feel better, Kawika’s story is a reminder that the right support team makes all the difference.

Maui-born volleyball standout Colton Cowell has always been known for his explosive athleticism, relentless drive, and team-first mentality. A proud alumnus of the University of Hawai‘i, Colton played a key role as a student-athlete and was a standout member of the 2021 NCAA Men’s Volleyball National Championship team.

But like many elite athletes, his path to success hasn’t come without setbacks.

A Shoulder Injury That Could Have Ended It All

After sustaining a significant injury to his right shoulder, Colton was faced with a tough road ahead. The damage required surgical repair to both his rotator cuff and labrum — An injury complex enough to challenge even the most experienced athletes.

For an athlete whose game relies heavily on overhead power and precision, the road back to the court was anything but guaranteed.

Starting the Comeback with PT Hawaii

Determined to return stronger than ever, Colton began his rehabilitation journey with PT Hawaii. From day one, the focus was on restoring strength, mobility, and confidence in his shoulder — without compromising long-term performance.

Thanks to his discipline and the expert care he received, Colton made incredible progress. In just four months post-op, he was cleared to return to overhead hitting — a milestone well ahead of expectations.

Back on the Court — and Aiming Even Higher

Today, Colton is back in international professional competition, picking up right where he left off. His powerful presence at the net and leadership on the court continue to inspire fans and teammates alike. And this is just the beginning.

At PT Hawaii, we’re honored to be part of Colton’s journey. His work ethic and determination reflect the very best of what we aim to support in every patient.

Our team had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Cecily Wang, a trauma surgeon and ICU doctor, to talk about her journey with neck & back pain and how physical therapy helped her reclaim something many of us take for granted: a good night’s sleep.

Meet Cecily: Trauma Surgeon, ICU Doctor, and Global Humanitarian

Dr. Cecilia Wang — or just Cecily, as she prefers — leads a life most of us can barely imagine. Her schedule rotates between day, night, and swing shifts, and she often works overseas for weeks at a time providing critical care in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

She’s used to unpredictability. But a few years ago, a car accident introduced an entirely new challenge into her life: chronic pain.

The Pain That Lingered Long After the Crash

After the accident, Cecily began experiencing ongoing neck and back pain. She did what many busy professionals do — she pushed through it. But eventually, the pain started disrupting her sleep. Night after night, she’d wake up with stabbing discomfort that no amount of stretching or self-care could fix.

Starting Physical Therapy at PT Hawaii

Cecily eventually found her way to PT Hawaii, and it turned out to be exactly what she needed.

What made the biggest difference, she told us, was how the team at PT Hawaii adapted to her lifestyle. With her irregular hours and travel schedule, she worried she wouldn’t be able to commit. But the clinic worked around her availability and offered the kind of flexibility that made it possible to stay consistent.

And best of all? It worked.

From Sleepless Nights to Deep Rest

One of the first things Cecily noticed after starting physical therapy was how her sleep improved. “I’m no longer waking up in the middle of the night with sharp pain which is a really big deal for me” she said.  

Better sleep meant more than just comfort. It meant showing up fully for her patients, having the energy to handle long shifts, and feeling like herself again.

Her Advice for Anyone Living with Pain

When we asked Cecily what she’d say to someone who’s dealing with chronic pain or injury, she didn’t hesitate:

“I would highly recommend PT Hawaii for anybody who might benefit from Physical Therapy because there is a good chance it’s going to help you.”