Jenny Moshak works with professional golfer and UT graduate Erica Popson.
By Joe Rector
If the old adage that “experience is the best teacher” is true, then Jenny Moshak, trainer for the Lady Vol basketball and volleyball teams, is an honor student of athletics. She shares her stories and the lessons learned in her book “Ice ‘n Go” (UT Press, 2013, $29.95).
The title comes from Moshak, who has given that advice to athletes and people for all areas of life. The words have appeared on her car and motorcycle license plates for years. The content of the book is “upbeat in tone and positive with simple strategies for improving the athletic experience for all, especially kids.” She covers a variety of topics, including social issues, medical concerns, motivational techniques and gender roles and expectations.”
Moshak presents three main themes in “Ice ‘n Go.” One is using a holistic approach to sports and life. She suggests that enjoying the journey to a goal is as important as the goal itself. Third, she presents an independent look at all facets of sports issues.
Jenny Moshak has seen enough to convince her that things need to change for athletes. She says that they go nonstop year-round and that it beats them up. The grind takes a toll on both the body and spirit of the college athlete.
Her recommendations include shortening the season, cross-training, being involved in multiple sports, and incorporating time to rest.
“The majority of injuries can heal with more down time. For college athletes, playing a sport is more like a job than a joy,” she said.
Moshak also stresses that the mind, body, and spirit are important in all areas of life.
“The three must be in balance to promote a well-round life, whether it be in sports, family, or work. When one is ignored, an individual struggles in his efforts.”
Moshak also discusses youth sports and participation by young athletes, parents, and coaches. She again calls for a cutback of the one-sport player and encourages young people to be involved in several activities which will benefit them in every sport. She also candidly discusses social issues which all face in the athletic arena and everyday life.
The publication of Ice ‘N Go has increased Jenny Moshak’s already busy life. Her speaking engagements have more than doubled, and her travels take her from Philadelphia to California. That’s on top of her job as the Associate Athletics Director For Sports Medicine, where she works more than 80 hours a week during the season. It’s important to her to spread the messages included in Ice ‘N Go at every venue.
When a bit of spare time opens, she enjoys cycling and weight training. Those activities are important so that she can stay ahead of the athletes whom she serves.
“The student athletes fuel me and keep me young,” she said.
Jenny Moshak is sure that “Ice ‘N Go” has something of value for every person. She enjoys meeting with people and is open for book signings. To schedule one, interested parties can contact University of Tennessee Press Publicist Tom Post at tpost@utk.edu. The book is available through UT Press, Union Avenue Books, Amazon, or the UT Bookstore.
The next time you see a woman run to the aid of an injured Lady Vol basketball player, remember that it’s Jenny Moshak, who loves her job, protects the students she serves, and calls for changes in athletics that will benefit those athletes. It’s all spelled out in “Ice ‘N Go.”
