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SOCHI — Skis and knees bouncing back and forth and highlight-reel crash landings — this is moguls skiing. And when a U.S. athlete takes a big fall Doug Flint is there to help.
"I'm still kind of, can't believe that I'm here," Flint said.
For now, Flint's home is in Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics. Flint normally works as a physical therapist at McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden. Four years ago, however, he started working at a jump camp for skiers, and that position led to this job with the U.S. Moguls Ski Team.
"Well, I think with a lot of things in life being in the right place at the right time is a big part of it," Flint said. "And then taking that opportunity and going with it."
Flint's main job with the team is as a physical therapist, and he certainly has been busy. Moguls skiers put a lot of stress on their knees, legs and backs.
He helps keep these athletes at their peak physical condition by rehabilitating injuries as best and as quickly as possible. He's normally positioned at the top of the hill where the skiers start to talk with them just before they begin to make sure they're OK from their previous run.
"When they are getting ready for their run they go into a place of focus and concentration," Flint said. "They're really in the moment at that time. It's incredible to watch."
And what is one of the coolest parts of his job? He gets to wear the U.S. Ski Team outfit. He also get to meet doctors from other teams like Russia, Finland and Australia and share notes.
It's an experience he'll remember forever.
"I'd like to say it's a dream come true," Flint said. "But, I never in my wildest dreams ever though about being here at the Olympics."
