Welcome to the summer edition of the Journal of Sport Therapy 2010.

We celebrate an increase in the circulation of the Journal of Sport Therapy both locally and internationally, through submissions of manuscripts from international readers and editorial members. This is an excellent development as it demonstrates how sports musculoskeletal researchers are keen to share findings with the global community. The breadth of the Journal of Sport Therapy has significantly increased, evidenced by an increase in manuscripts being submitted from both new and established researchers. With the addition of an ISSN, coupled with swift publication of manuscripts, the popularity of the Journal of Sports Therapy would seem a feasible option as a publication outlet for research related to musculoskeletal therapy and physical activity.

However, there is a need to further develop the research output of the Sports Therapy industry. To this we have identified the need for an improved communication, co-operation and transparency by all stakeholders involved in the sports therapy industry, namely, member associations, educational institutions, practitioners, and researchers. The need for an appropriate forum to disseminate and communicate developments within the industry is key to the further development of the Journal of Sports Therapy. Open and free communication is crucial for the progress of the Journal of Sports Therapy as a unified entity. It is the aim of the editors to promote the Journal of Sports Therapy as an outlet for research pertinent to the care of active individuals, as mentioned in previous editorials; the multidisciplinary approach to health care seems to be an emerging trend in health care provision.

The editors invite communication from new and established practitioners and researchers who might be interested in forging collaborative partnerships which reflect the philosophy of the Journal of Sports Therapy. Projects which we would consider important to the industry include conducting multi-site research activities in common themed areas. Establishing a research hub may be of interest to researchers who might consider undertaking some research but may lack the necessary facilities, and expertise. In the first instance, we invite you to contact us to discuss your thoughts. This is a potentially powerful way to enhance knowledge and practice which can be widely disseminated amongst the sports therapy community. Given today’s research and clinical environment, collaboration is vital.

Robert Di Leva and Ian Lahart