He completed his education in Quebec and Ontario, graduating with a Psychology bachelors degree from Concordia University (2009), an MA in Kinesiology from McGill University (2012), and a PhD degree from the University of Ottawa’s Human Kinetics faculty (2017).
Dr. Rathwell is a sport psychologist with research interest in promoting physical activity through the lifespan and safe return from concussion. Dr. Rathwell has produced a significant number of peer-reviewed publications in high impact journals and important chapters in disciplinary textbooks.
Dr. Rathwell’ s research is supported by national grants and he is currently the principle investigator on a two year SSHRC Insight Development grant titled “Getting back on track: A mixed methods study of successful re-engagement in physical activity.” He is also the co-investigator for a SSHRC Insight Grant titled “The development, validation, and practical utility of an assessment tool for surveying adult-orientated coaching practices in masters sport.”
Dr. Rathwell has worked as an external consultant for professional organizations in Canada, the USA, and Portugal. He helped the Coaching Association of Canada create a survey instrument to assess all National Coaching Certification Program modules offered in Canada. Within the USA, he consulted with the Los Angeles Angels about coaching strategies for optimizing performance and expertise development. In Portugal, he has delivered workshops where he taught university coaches how to promote positive development through.
Within Lethbridge, Dr. Rathwell has provided his professional services to Pronghorn athletes and also coached for several years with the Lethbridge Lightning senior men’s hockey team.
Dr. Rathwell enjoys playing hockey, golf and going to the gym.