David Kruse began his 17-year gymnastics career at age 8, achieving the level of Men’s Artistic Senior National Team. “In my childhood, gymnastics laid a foundation for hard work, discipline, self-motivation, and focus, as well as created a base for physical fitness and health later in life. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to apply the early lessons I learned from the sport to a career as a collegiate gymnast, earning a college degree along the way. My achievements in the sport, small (Cartwheel-a-thon champion, age 9) and large (US Senior National Team Member), gave me the confidence that with hard work you can achieve your goals. My experience as a gymnast and my love for the sciences has led me to a career in sports medicine. I apply on a daily basis, those values of discipline and hard work which I learned from the sport of gymnastics, as well as my experience as a former high level athlete, to the care of my patients.”