The focus of the seminar series is to call for experts related to academia and research in the areas related to biomechanics, variability, motor disorders, physical therapy, and related studies.

Presentation Title: Bias, Belief, and Variability - Challenging Current Paradigms in ACL Research

Presentation Abstract:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries remain one of the most intensively studied topics in sports medicine, yet many prevailing assumptions and practices warrant reconsideration. This talk will first highlight methodological shortcomings in current ACL research that constrain our ability to generate actionable knowledge for athletes and clinicians. Opportunities to overcome these challenges through more representative approaches will be outlined. Second, I will address persistent stigmas and biases in ACL research and practice in women athletes. These biases continue to entrench both scientific narratives and clinical decision-making, often to the detriment of women's health and performance in sports. Finally, I will discuss how disagreement and opposing perspectives should not be viewed as a threat but as a driver of progress. By embracing scientific tension and methodological pluralism, ACL research can advance toward more robust, inclusive, and practically relevant insights that better serve athletes. 

About the speaker:

Dr. Daniel Kadlec is a lecturer and researcher at Edith Cowan University (Perth, Australia) in sports biomechanics and motor control. His work focuses on athlete health and performance, data visualisation, and meta-research. He completed his PhD in Sports Science at Edith Cowan University following an MSc in Strength & Conditioning at St Mary’s University, Twickenham (UK), a BSc from the German Sports University, and holds a degree in sports physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Alongside his academic career, Dr. Kadlec has more than 15 years of experience as a strength and conditioning coach with national and international, junior and senior and para athletes.