I am Laila Usacka, an SEM resident at the University of Latvia. I have worked with ice hockey and floorball teams for more than 10 years. Since my parents are mountain climbers and my mother is a professor in sports physiology, my heart and interest also lie in mountaineering, hypoxic environments and working in a physical exercise testing laboratory.

What is your main area of research / clinical expertise?

I try to balance my interest and enthusiasm between working in a cardiopulmonary testing laboratory and the ice hockey team. Still can’t decide what I enjoy more- diving deep into sports physiology or working as a side-line physician. Or maybe both?

What is your motivation to be a member of the BOSEM team?

It is exhilarating and a great honour to work with such fantastic SEM professionals. I believe that in “brainstorming” and discussions lies the best solutions and ideas not only for daily practice but also for promising innovations.

What is a work-related accomplishment that you’re really proud of?

To be honest, I feel delighted every time an athlete improves after my interventions or suggestions, but of course, I enjoyed working with national teams. And to get a medal in a championship feels great too!

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

My amazing mentor since med-school is dr. Janis Kaupe and his colleagues from Latvian Olympic Team.

What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?

Going for a run and reading a book before sleep to my wonderful daughter.