Dr. Smith has been a research physicist for over 30 years, receiving a variety of professional awards. He has a Doctorate in Experimental Physics and he completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Biophysics. He has served on numerous national committees and advisory boards, and he has authored over 100 technical research papers and reports. Dr. Smith has been a consultant to Wright Balance® Golf Academy for over 20 years.
Teachers
Robert Watkins, MD
Dr. Watkins developed what he referred to as Trunk Stabilization 30 plus years ago. He prescribes this 30 to 45 minute back exercise program for his patients both before and after surgery. Many consider Dr. Watkins the ”Father of Core Training”. This exercise program was one part of the biomechanics lab Balance research protocols.
Michael Mellman, MD
Dr. Mellman has been the team Physician for the Los Angeles Rams, Kings, Dodgers and Lakers. He has championship rings with each of these teams. He is currently still with the NHL LA Kings.
Dr. Mellman and Dr. Wright worked closely together for 2 years prior to beginning the Wright Balance® study laying the foundation for all phases of the research.
Dr. Frank Jobe, MD
Dr. Jobe was co-founder of the Kerlan-Jobe Sports Medicine Orthopedic Group. He is best known for the “Tommy John” surgery. Tommy John was a MLB pitcher who reaped the benifits of Dr. Jobes’ first surgery followed by thousands of athletes.
Dr. Jobe was intimately involved in planning the Wright Balance® research. He provided his Biomechanics lab and 4 biomedical technicians at Centinela Hospital in Los Angeles for the four years the study ran.
Dr. David Wright
Dr. Wright holds two doctorates. His areas of specialization are research, learning & psychophysiology. He was a full time member of the faculty of the University of Southern California School of Medicine for 4 years and a member of the clinical faculty for over 25 years. He has been a Class A PGA Professional since 1992.
Dr. Wright was inducted into the California PGA Teacher’s Hall of Fame in 2017.