Sports Physical Therapy Clinic in Chicago, IL

From Injury to Peak Performance

One-on-one PT, sports rehab, and certified strength and conditioning training for active adults and athletes in Evergreen Park and beyond.

Book an Appointment

5.0 Rating • 80 Reviews

Coach observing a young athlete's swing technique during group training at Core Sport and Physical Therapy in Evergreen Park, IL.
Why Choose Us

More Than Physical Therapy: A Complete Path to Performance

Core Sport is built differently. Every patient works one-on-one with a physical therapist for the full hour, and athletes who are ready can move directly into performance training without leaving the building.

One-on-One PT Every Session

Every session is one-on-one with your physical therapist for the full hour. No aides, no shared time.

Rehab Into Performance

When PT ends, performance training begins. The same facility, the same team, no gaps in care.

Physical therapist guiding a patient through core stability work on a stability ball at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

VALD Sport Assessment

VALD technology measures your strength and symmetry so every training and rehab decision is backed by real data.

BCBS PPO In-Network

We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO. Self-pay is welcome too, and no physician's referral is required to begin.

How It Works

Your Path From Injury to Peak Performance

Call or Contact Us

Call or submit the contact form to schedule your initial evaluation at either the Evergreen Park or Downers Grove location.

Your Evaluation

Your physical therapist performs a thorough one-on-one evaluation and builds a customized treatment plan focused on returning you to full activity.

Return to Sport

Progress through your treatment plan and into performance training until you return to your sport stronger than before.

Our Team

Meet the Minds Behind Core Sport

Expert physical therapists and coaches, all under one roof.

Diane Fidler, Owner / CEO at Core Sport and Physical Therapy, MPT.

Diane Fidler

MPT

Dr. Bobby Waddell, Owner / Director of Physical Therapy at Core Sport and Physical Therapy, DPT.

Dr. Bobby Waddell

DPT

Dr. Alice Lee, Physical Therapist at Core Sport and Physical Therapy, PT, DPT, CSCS.

Dr. Alice Lee

PT, DPT, CSCS

Cullen Cosme, Strength & Conditioning Coach at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

Cullen Cosme

LTAD

Declan Smyth, Strength & Conditioning Coach at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

Declan Smyth

Nick Dombroski, Sports Rehab Specialist at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

Nick Dombroski

Brittany Wiley, Director of Sports Performance and Marketing at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

Brittany Wiley

Kegan Olig, Strength & Conditioning Coach at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

Kegan Olig

Matt Cesario

PT

Zachary Mayer

Christopher Seropian, Head Sports Performance Coach at Core Sport and Physical Therapy.

Christopher Seropian

Dr. CJ Johnston, Managing Director & Physical Therapist at Core Sport and Physical Therapy, PT, DPT.

Dr. CJ Johnston

PT, DPT

Dr. Dean Coulter

PT, DPT

Dr. Jared Gonzales

PT, DPT, DN-cert

Dr. Colyn Dailey

DPT

Full name
Job title

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique.

Hear It From the Athletes

See what athletes in Evergreen Park and Downers Grove say about their experience at Core Sport.

Google reviews icon
We’ve had such an incredible experience at Core Sport, especially working with Nick. My son sees him for strength and conditioning and the progress has been amazing. He’s gotten so much stronger, more coordinated, and more confident in his movements. Nick is truly gifted at what he does, he knows how to push kids in the right way while keeping them motivated and engaged. My son really vibes with him and genuinely looks forward to going every week, which says everything. It’s not easy to find someone who is both highly skilled and great with kids, but Nick is exactly that. We’re so grateful for the impact he’s had and highly recommend Core Sport to anyone looking for top-tier sports rehab and training.
Christopher Henri
Google reviews icon
I landed at Core Sport after a serious back injury and multiple surgeries. I was a hot mess. I started working with Bobby doing physical therapy and it has been life changing. I now train with Danny as well and I have never felt better. I am so grateful to the entire Core family. It is such a welcoming and friendly environment. Thank you for giving me my life back!
Eileen Barrins
Google reviews icon
Back in October our son dislocated his knee cap and needed surgery. He was told it would take him 6-9 months to recover. This news shattered him knowing he would most likely not be about to play baseball this year. He never gave up. He followed every rule, sometimes to closely. He pushed himself at PT about 3-4 days a week. He is now only 4.5 months post surgery and he is back on the field doing what he loves the most. Our family is so grateful for the dedicated people who work at Core Sport. They have been there with him every step of the way.
Lisa Bruen
Google reviews icon
BEST PLACE ON EARTH!! helped me so much with my recovery. alice is great! I love the voodoo band but the best is cupping and needling. the exercises help so much!
Ava Stratton
Google reviews icon
Helped me rehab from shoulder surgery. Great people and facilities. PT’s are focused and have intent behind every exercise. Highly recommend if you want to rehab or get trained!
Frank Schmitt
Google reviews icon
I highly recommend seeing Christopher Johnson (CJ) for physical therapy. He has always been professional, kind , and patient with me. I've been seeing him on and off for around two years for a few different issues. Ankle stability when I was training for the Shamrock Shuffle, shoulder blade movement work, and tennis elbow, including post surgery recovery for it. Im sad he's leaving his current location for Downers Grove. My loss is your gain I guess.
Kristi Lanzo
Google reviews icon
CJ has been my physical therapist for over a year now and has helped me through multiple injuries including IT band syndrome and a sprained ankle. I am an active adult - a runner, lifter and still play sports; so having a PT that specializes in sports rehab has been a perfect fit for me. He is a great listener, easily adapts his plans as needed, and is kind and attentive. I really enjoy going to PT with CJ - it has never felt like chore, like my past experiences, but is an enjoyable experience that I can actually look forward to. I highly recommend CJ and Core Sport!
Brittany Wiley
Google reviews icon
I can’t say enough about the team at Core! The office staff are organized and welcoming, the PT team is incredible! I’ve been coming for about 9 months and have worked with the whole team! The progress has been consistent, they push me to get stronger and challenge my limits each time! Their one on one approach to PT was a big draw for me and it has paid off! I’ll also add that my 13yo son really enjoys their group classes for strength and conditioning! I love that Core is committed to helping these young athletes learn how To train and prevent injuries!
Alyssa Sosinski
Google reviews icon
Core Sport is a wonderful new addition to the Downers Grove community! It sets itself apart from all of the other chain physical therapy facilities. It’s unique in the way it caters to all individuals-young and old. Not only do you get your physical therapy needs met, but strength, core work and Pilates breathing methods are imbedded in each session. CJ, the owner and therapist, is the best! He’s knowledgeable, kind and shows a true compassion for his clients. Each session is a full hour tailored to your physical needs. CJ makes sure you walk out feeling better, stronger and more confident. I highly recommend booking a session at Core Sport Downers Grove!
Julia Bohr
Google reviews icon
Core Sport offers outstanding physical therapy, and Bobby Waddell is a prime example of the level of care they provide. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to patient success were instrumental in my recovery from a calf tear. Under his guidance, I progressed from being unable to walk to running and squatting again with confidence. Bobby’s ability to tailor treatment plans and make smart, targeted adjustments throughout the rehab process truly sets him apart. If you’re looking for a place that delivers real results with knowledgeable and dedicated professionals, Core Sport is an excellent choice.
Joe Higgins
Google reviews icon
Had a foot injury and knew I was going to core sport. First thing I noticed about it was everybody was very friendly and always talked to me. Right away I felt very supported and welcomed. I built a relationship with pretty much all the therapists because of this. I would 100% recommend going to core sport whether you have a injury or are going there to become the best athlete you can
Lucas Scramava
Google reviews icon
ACL rehab Great stuff!
Jake Sellis
Google reviews icon
Nick has done an excellent job as my rehab specialist—knowledgeable, attentive, and has really helped me progress. I know he spends a lot of time planning before every appointment. He will be your biggest fan and hype man, he wants the best out of his patients! Erin and Kaley at the front desk are always friendly and welcoming, and Alice and CJ are fantastic physical therapists; their guidance and exercises got me back on track quickly. The Core Sport team are great at what they do, and they’re great people too!
Colin Ioannacci
Google reviews icon
I have had an excellent experience at Core Sport and Physical Therapy over the 4 years I have been with them! The front desk staff never fails to greet each patient with a smile and help me with all of my scheduling needs. Every therapist at Core Sport is incredibly knowledgeable and personable. Each member of the Core Sport team, even the ones that I do not personally work with, make an effort to get to know me personally. Working with Alice has been a privilege. Her enthusiasm and energy is infectious. She always makes an effort to make each one of my concerns heard. I highly recommend Core Sport for any strength training or physical therapy needs!
Cara O'Connor
Google reviews icon
Both my son & daughter are training with Chris Seropian. He has been instrumental in increasing their speed, strength & reactive jumping! Many thanks to Chris & the sports performance program at Core Sport & Physical Therapy!!
Jack Taylor
Google reviews icon
Cj has been my daughter's physical therapist for a little over a year. After her surgery, she encountered some challenges and he has been determined to see her through it. He is extremely knowledgeable, caring, and patient. His positive attitude has been a great influence on her during this rehabilitation. I highly recommend Cj and the entire Core family!
angela pass
Google reviews icon
Core sport is a great place to go for recovery or sports training. Everyone there is very friendly and they all push you to your best.
Bri Guy
Google reviews icon
I am so grateful to be working through my injuries with the support of CJ and the Core Sport PT team. Staying active is essential to me, especially now that I’m in my 50’s. I have several lumbar spine issues and an old knee injury and CJ works right alongside me through the whole session. It is important to me to have an experienced physical therapist who understands the scope of my injuries and takes the time to create a program just for me. I didn’t want to be in a group or with a PT assistant. I am learning new ways to build strength and recover safely. I look forward to my sessions and cannot recommend Core Sport Physical Therapy enough!!! Thank you CJ and Bobby!
Karen Waddell
Google reviews icon
Awesome staff and amazing facility!
Aidan Peloquin
Google reviews icon
You immediately feel welcome and at home as you are greeted by and amazing, enthusiastic staff! The facility also has everything you need to become stronger and reach your peak performance. Highly recommend stopping in!
Brynn Peloquin
Google reviews icon
The staff at Core Sport and Core Fitness far exceeded my expectations. From prompt scheduling, prompt return calls and emails to their incredible “bedside manner” when helping rehab my teen, they are the best around! Bobby, our physical therapist was exceptional helping my teenage son navigate a debilitating injury, while inspiring him to use his heeling time to work on himself. We were able to throw just about any question at Bobby and knew he would not only answer it, but explain and show us. He is incredibly patient and thorough. Thank you!!!
Mary Morgan
Google reviews icon
Core Sport has given me an amazing experience throughout physical therepy. I felt very welcomed and in good hands. They provided me great excercises to continue at home which aided my progress! I would highly recommend Core Sport!
Reganne Reardon
Google reviews icon
I always enjoyed going to core sport because everyone was super nice and welcoming. All the PTs and ATs there are very knowledgeable, and are continuously searching for the best ways to help their patients. The one-on-one appointments that they provide also allow for a more personalized recovery. I would highly recommend going to core sport, especially for athletes looking to return to sport.
Olivia Desjardins
Google reviews icon
Great workouts
MattK458
Google reviews icon
When I’m at core sport I feel like I’m at home. Everyone is so kind and supportive. They have a goal wall to track your success and they have seeing everyone succeed. It’s the true meaning of family at core sport. I have made significant strides to reaching my goals. Core sport does an exceptional job developing athletes and crushing the completion.
Mikey Usterbowski
Google reviews icon
The best!!!
Annie Sullivan
Google reviews icon
The staff at Core Sport is unbelievable, extremely supportive, and positive. They are uplifting and always motivate you to be your best self. They constantly push you to be better and keep going. The one-on-one support they provide is hard to come by today and is something they excel at.
David
Google reviews icon
Danny is a great motivator and trainer. He pushes me to achieve my goals but supports me through the challenges. In the year that I have been training with him I have gotten much stronger. I love training at Core Sport, they have a great vibe!
Cathy O'Grady
Google reviews icon
Core Sport is an inclusive environment that pushes you to your full potential.The athletes, community, and trainers are amazing. They always have positive attitude. I love Core Sport.
Ashley Ashbaugh
Google reviews icon
My experience at core sport has been amazing, I have done both PT and the workout classes there and have had the best outcomes! Everyone there is so incredibly nice and helpful!
nora enright
Google reviews icon
My experience at Core Sport has been so amazing and helpful. Everyone who works there is incredibly kind and supportive of every athlete that trains there. Going to Core for strength and conditioning helped me to be more powerful and strong going into my cross country season. Core Sport is the place to go!!!
Katie Malloy
Google reviews icon
I was very lucky finding this place to help with my Achilles problem. They treat you very well and work with how you are feeling and push you to make yourself better. I highly recommend this to anyone going through an injury and want some very efficient and reliable ways.
Tim Zaleski
Google reviews icon
The whole staff is so nice!! I do Physical therapy and personal training there and both of have given me great results!!
Maggie Kurpeikis
Google reviews icon
I have loved my experience at Core Sport! Everyone who works there is super welcoming and supportive of every person that goes there! Everyone knows you by name and it's nothing less than amazing.
Ryne Jacobsen
Google reviews icon
Core Sport is 100% worth it. Amazing staff and experience at all times! Helped me overcome an injury that no other place could. Highly recommend.
Jake Roney
Google reviews icon
Core has been amazing in providing services to my teenage daughter after a broken leg. The staff is very supportive and encouraging. They take the time to explain the purpose of the exercises and to educate their patients on proper form, technique etc. In addition, they are supportive of the community and have sponsored several events monetarily and by providing basket raffles . We are so lucky to have this resource in our community! Highly highly recommend!
Maureen O'Malley
Google reviews icon
The VALD system has helped me a lot with my recovery and would recommend that you try and use it out at Core Sport
cheech
Google reviews icon
The staff is knowledgeable, great listeners, compassionate & flexible with the meeting the needs of their clients.
Donna Sweeney
Google reviews icon
Great people
Cullen Winters
Google reviews icon
I got acl surgery a couple months ago and my recovery has been going great.
T
Google reviews icon
Absolutely amazing place. Both of my daughters have been treated here — one for ACL rehab and the other for injuries and ongoing strength work. The staff is incredible: friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely supportive. We are so grateful for the care they’ve received. Highly recommend!
Kelly Lukareski
Google reviews icon
This place is special! My son and I have been coming to Core for over 18 months and have loved every second! The staff is incredible! They have helped both of us with all sorts of issues and have allowed us to continue to do the things that we love! My son was able to get back on the football field and baseball diamond all because of the help of Core Sport! I could not recommend them enough!
vincent winters
Google reviews icon
Core Sport has been amazing for my daughter as she recovers from a sport injury. She loves seeing Alice! Shoutout to the front office staff Erin and Kaley who make scheduling so easy!
Mary Kate VanHootegem
Google reviews icon
We’ve had an excellent experience with CoreSport! The therapists are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and great with my son and they make each session fun and motivating. We noticed a drastic improvement in form, speed, and strength in a very short amount of time. We are so grateful for everyone at CoreSport.
Christine Kaufmann
Google reviews icon
Core sport has been great helping to develop my young athlete’s strength, speed and overall conditioning. Over the years she’s done group classes, small group and individual sessions and loved each trainer she has worked with! The various options for training make it easy to fit in sessions around a busy school and sports schedule. Most importantly she is learning proper training techniques and a love of exercise.
Angela Burke
Google reviews icon
I would give up my cell phone before I gave up this place. Changed my life. Could barely get up from the floor when I started (I’m 76). But now, 2 years later, I’m a big show off (to myself mostly) no need to sit to pull on pants or socks. I bound up and down stairs. And, I look soooo much better
Catherine Ferguson
Google reviews icon
We’re lucky to have Core Sport in our neighborhood! Every session leaves you feeling better, the energy is upbeat, staff greet you by name, and the facility has innovative equipment for PT, group, or personal training. Front office handles insurance smoothly—truly a top-notch, results-focused practice!
Olivia Ansier
Google reviews icon
Best physical therapy spot in all Chicago. Each trainer tailors the sessions to your specific needs and goals.
John Keller
Google reviews icon
I can’t say enough good things about Core Sport. The facility is top-notch and only getting better, the environment is beyond welcoming, and everything and everyone is geared toward getting you better and healthier than before. Huge thank you to Declan for the time, energy, and attention to detail he brings every day. Him and all the other therapists/trainers genuinely care about their clients and always go above and beyond to help you improve. If you’re serious about training, recovery, and performance, this is the place to be.
George Bilecki
Google reviews icon
Helped me avoid surgery on torn labrum in hip, people there are great and energy is always high, for sure recommend to anyone battling an injury or looking to workout
Connor Elenteny
Google reviews icon
Been coming here for past few months everyone is so nice and they really know what they are doing
Thomas Sosinski
Google reviews icon
Highly recommend Core whether it’s for physical therapy and/or sports endurance. Alice Lee for PT and Cullen for sports classes have been wonderful and very knowledgeable in their areas of expertise.
Denise Remegi
Google reviews icon
Such a wonderful experience so far with my physical therapy! The intake process was super smooth and easy and the physical therapists are extremely knowledgeable and helpful! I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for PT services cause they’re really great!
Lisa Martirena
Google reviews icon
My son has had a great experience at Core Sport. From the very beginning every staff member I talked with was so helpful with the process of making appointments and explaining the steps my son needs to help strengthen his foot. I have seen great progress in his strength, coordination, and confidence. The staff is very positive and make the sessions fun. They are very encouraging and my son is always excited for his next appointment. I would highly recommend Core Sport for your physical therapy!
Meghan Kaufmann
Google reviews icon
Core Sport is amazing. My daughter had back issues a couple years ago and she did weekly PT sessions that kept her on the court. She has continued with PT and also started doing strength training and has been healthy ever since. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and I know she is in the best hands. I could not say enough good things about everybody that works there.
Jeanine Kurpeikis
Google reviews icon
Amazing place, amazing staff. Helped me heal very quickly!
Jack Weigus
Google reviews icon
I started going to Core Sport a couple months ago after I had a really bad ankle sprain. Bobby has done an amazing job is rehabbing my ankle and getting my body stronger overall. My body feels better overall than before my injury. Also, the entire team is very friendly which creates a great atmosphere. Can’t recommend Core enough.
Brian Temple
Google reviews icon
Core has improved my strength, speed, and explosiveness. It is amazing there everyone is very nice and they have amazing classes to grow stronger and faster. They have done a really good job with this business and the classes they have.
John Fennell
Google reviews icon
Core Sport PT has been amazing. They’ve helped me rehab my knee and shoulder since November, and every PT there is fantastic—knowledgeable, supportive, and great to work with. I actually look forward to my sessions, which says a lot. Highly recommend!
Colleen Connolly
Google reviews icon
I have had a wonderful experience both with physical therapy and fitness at Core Sport. They work hard to provide personalized yet challenging clasess. I appreciate the upbeat, welcoming environment . It makes it easy to commit to classes. I look forward to continuing my fitness journey with them.
Colleen Suglich
Google reviews icon
Great people that get you to where you need to be physically!
ben perek

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about what to expect? Here are the ones we hear most often before a first visit.

Do You Accept Insurance?

We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO at both our Evergreen Park and Downers Grove locations. Self-pay is welcome, and out-of-network reimbursement assistance is available for other insurers. No physician referral is required to begin physical therapy. Call or contact us to discuss your coverage before your first visit.

Do I Need a Referral to Start Physical Therapy?

No referral is needed at Core Sport. Illinois allows direct access to physical therapy, which means you can call and schedule an initial evaluation without seeing a physician first. We will build your treatment plan from that evaluation and get you started right away.

Are Physical Therapy Sessions One-on-One?

Yes. Every physical therapy session at Core Sport is one-on-one with your licensed physical therapist for the full hour. We do not delegate care to aides or share your session time with other patients. You work directly with your therapist from evaluation through discharge, every appointment.

Is Core Sport Right for Me If I Am Not a Competitive Athlete?

Core Sport sees patients at every activity level. Our primary focus is athletes, but anyone dealing with orthopedic pain, post-surgical recovery, or a desire to move and feel better is welcome. The same one-on-one, evidence-based approach we apply to athletes applies to every patient we see.

What Is VALD Testing and How Is It Used?

VALD is a performance measurement system that quantifies strength, symmetry, and power output using force plates and other tools. We use it to identify physical limiters, track progress during rehab, and establish objective readiness criteria before clearing athletes for return to sport.

Still have questions?

Reach out and we will answer before your first visit.

Ready to Go From Injured to Unstoppable?

Serving athletes in Evergreen Park and Downers Grove, IL.