STAFF
Scott Johnson, PT, MS, CSCS
Physical Therapist
Scott earned his bachelor’s degree in life sciences from Kansas State University in 1992 and his master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center in 1994. He is passionate about “being your best self” and has spent his career developing his expertise in orthopedic physical therapy. Scott has completed a residency program in manual therapy and has certifications in functional applied science. He is also a certified strength and conditioning coach through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Scott’s dream was to open his own business and provide exceptional physical therapy and fitness services. He put that dream into action when Maximum Performance Physical Therapy and Fitness opened in 2011. Scott loves anything that is physically challenging! He participates in the MS150 bike rides, hikes 14,000 foot peaks in Colorado, and is up for waterskiing, regardless of the weather! Scott is proud of his Riley County roots, an avid KSU fan, and could not be more proud of his three children.
Stephanie Johnson, PT, MS
Physical Therapist
Stephanie graduated from Kansas State University in 1992 with her bachelor’s degree in life sciences. She earned her master’s degree in physical therapy in 1994 from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Over the years, she has worked in many different settings, including pediatrics, home health, outpatient orthopedics, and inpatient rehabilitation. Stephanie has completed a manual therapy residency program and has certifications in functional applied science and oncology rehabilitation. In 2011, Scott and Stephanie opened Maximum Performance Physical Therapy and Fitness. Their goal was to provide physical therapy and wellness services along a spectrum that includes injury prevention, return to function and improved health. She currently specializes in women’s health, “powerful” aging, and oncology rehabilitation. Stephanie is passionate about preserving and promoting the profession of physical therapy and inspiring that passion in others. When she isn’t treating patients or managing the business side of Maximum Performance, she can be found gardening, trying out a new recipe, or spending time with her three children.
David Brandenburg, PT, DPT, CSCS
Physical Therapist
David Brandenburg earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Kansas State University in 2004 and his Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2007. He may hold degrees from two Kansas schools, but he bleeds purple for the Wildcats. David has been a part of Maximum Performance since our beginning in 2003, when he worked as a physical therapy aide and fitness center tech. After finishing graduate school in 2007, Dave returned to fill his current role as physical therapist and joined the business as partner in 2008. His specialties include sports rehab with return to sport training, orthopedics, manual therapy, post-operative care, dry needling, and blood flow restriction therapy. He recently became certified as a functional golf specialist. Dave strongly believes in mentoring future PTs, and for that reason he provides opportunities for prospective students. When not delivering the best one-on-one physical therapy experience in the nation, Dave enjoys spending time with his wife, Naomi, and their two kids, Will and Emelyn. You can find Dave and his family attending youth sporting/horseback riding events, school programs, or waterskiing at the lake.
Luke Slama, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Luke grew up around Dallas, Texas and earned his doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Texas at El Paso. After graduation, he worked for Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation before moving back to Manhattan. Luke enjoys treating general orthopedic and vestibular conditions, and is certified in vestibular rehabilitation by the American Institute of Balance. Luke enjoys the challenge of helping individuals with various physical limitations and improving their day-to-day abilities. In his spare time, Luke likes to exercise, hike, travel and spend time with family. He and his wife are both K-State alumni and enjoy going to K-State sporting events.
Joshua Hoover, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Joshua earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training and health science from Sterling College in 2016 and a doctorate in physical therapy from Wichita State University in 2020. He is certified in ASTYM, functional dry needling L1-FDL1 and sports manual therapy. Joshua grew up in Elbing, Kansas, where he developed a passion for learning how the body works and improving performance. Following his graduation in 2016, he spent a year as a medical assistant in an orthopedic clinic and confirmed his affinity for physical therapy. When not at Maximum Performance, Joshua enjoys spending time with his wife, Sarah, and their toddlers, Oliver and Jude. The couple are active in their church and Joshua serves the music ministry.
Aaron Shamburg, PT, DPT, CSCS
Physical Therapist
Aaron joined Maximum Performance originally in 2018 while he was an undergrad at K-State earning his degree in kinesiology. He happily returned to Manhattan in 2023 after earning his doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Aaron’s professional area of interest is in orthopedic and sports performance rehab. He draws on his years of experience in coaching and personal training to help patients achieve their goals. A native of Beloit, Kansas, Aaron is excited to begin the next phase of life in Manhattan. When not in the clinic, he enjoys K-State and Chiefs sporting events, hiking and backpacking, fishing, boxing and eating tacos.
Kailee Shamburg, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Kailee was born and raised in Salina, Kansas. She earned her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from K-State in 2020, followed by her doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2023. During her time at K-State, Kailee worked for Maximum Performance as a physical therapy tech and is excited to return as a physical therapist. Kailee enjoys treating a range of patients, especially those with orthopedic and vestibular conditions. In her free time she enjoys going to K-State and Chiefs sporting events, spending time outdoors and working out.
Khalid Cray, PT, DPT, ATC
Physical Therapist
Khalid was raised in Papillion, Nebraska, and earned his bachelor’s degree in education and human sciences from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 2019. While at UNL, he worked as a student athletic trainer with various teams and a local high school, sparking a passion for helping athletes stay healthy and active. He went on to earn his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2025. After briefly practicing in Denver, Colorado, Khalid moved to Kansas to be closer to family. He enjoys guiding patients through their rehab journey by helping them understand their condition and giving them the tools to return to the activities they enjoy. Khalid enjoys spending his free time with his wife and their 12-pound dog, checking out comedy shows, cheering at sporting events, traveling, and finding new ways to stay active.
Jayme Lundberg, PTA
Physical Therapist assistant
Jayme received a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from K-State before earning an associate’s degree as a physical therapy assistant from Washburn University in 2013. The Onaga, Kansas, native worked in the rehab unit at St. Francis hospital before joining the team at Maximum Performance. In her spare time, Jayme enjoys the outdoors, music, spending time with friends and family and cheering on the Cats!
Marie Butcher, PTA
Physical Therapist assistant
Marie grew up in Topeka, Kansas. She earned her associates degree as a Physical Therapy Assistant from Washburn University in 2021. Before joining the Maximum Performance team, she worked for two and a half years at the University of Kansas St. Francis Campus Sports Rehab clinic in Topeka. She has experience working with orthopedic, neurological, and cardiopulmonary conditions. While growing up, Marie was trained in ballet and dance for 14 years, and now she has a passion for treating dancers. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her two weenie dogs, Ario and Ellie. Marie also likes to read and spend time outdoors walking or hiking.
Brennan Wetter, PTA
Physical Therapist assistant
Brennan is originally from Marysville, Kansas. He attended Washburn University, earning his associate’s degree in 2020 and his bachelor’s degree in 2022. Since graduating, he has gained experience working in a variety of settings, including spending a year as a traveling physical therapy assistant. He is excited to join the Maximum Performance team and continue helping patients improve their mobility and overall quality of life. In his free time, Brennan enjoys golfing, watching sports (especially cheering on KU), and playing board games.
Taylor Thiessen
Physical TherapY TECHNICIAN | West location
Taylor moved to Manhattan after completing her associates degree from Hutchinson Community College. She is currently pursuing a bachelors degree in kinesiology at K-State. After finishing her undergrad, she plans to attend physical therapy school. Taylor grew up in Inman, Kansas, where she developed an interest in physical therapy and found her love for helping people improve their health. In her free time, she enjoys playing sand volleyball, golf and working out.
Aaron Akin
FITNESS DIRECTOR
Aaron’s passion is helping people become fit. As a professional athlete and first-round draft pick for the Florida Marlins, Aaron is committed to a healthy lifestyle and believes wellness and fitness are the keys to a happy life. After his career with the Marlins, Aaron earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management at Mount Olive College in North Carolina and was a member of the coaching staff when the team won the 2008 National Baseball Championship.
Rylan Amon, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Rylan is a certified personal trainer from Holton, Kansas, who relocated to Manhattan to pursue a degree in kinesiology at K-State. After completing his undergraduate studies, he plans to further his education and earn a doctorate in physical therapy. Rylan’s passion for physical therapy comes from his experiences overcoming injuries and his strong desire to help others return to the activities they love. In his free time, Rylan enjoys weightlifting, playing golf, and spending time in his garden.
Will Brent, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Will is a native of Helena, Montana, and relocated to Manhattan to attend K-State, where he earned a degree in kinesiology with a minor in business. He is currently working toward his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential and plans to pursue a career in strength and conditioning. Outside of the gym, Will enjoys listening to music, watching movies and TV shows—especially The Lord of the Rings and The Sopranos—and competing in powerlifting.
Luke Brickei, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Luke is a Manhattan native currently earning a degree in professional strategic selling while also minoring in finance and marketing at K-State. He is passionate about guiding others toward healthier, more active lives and enjoys helping clients build confidence through fitness. Outside of personal training, Luke enjoys weightlifting, spending time with friends, and fishing.
Jordan Jones, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Jordan was born in Texas and shortly thereafter moved to Liberal, Kansas, where he grew up and graduated from high school in 2009. In 2011, he graduated from Seward County Community College and earned a diploma in personal training from the National Personal Training Institute in Orlando, Florida, with certifications in kettlebells, TRX, Osteoblast (Testosterone Optimization Training) and speed blast (speed training). After graduating from the Institute, Jordan moved to Manhattan, where he joined the staff at Maximum Performance and attended K-State. However, his varied interests inspired him to quit school and spend three years on a passion project: a film titled “The Brutal 9” that he wrote, produced and directed. When not in the gym, Jordan enjoys spending time with his family, friends and dog, going to movies and reading.
Michael Lackey, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Michael hails from Highland, Kansas, where he attended Highland Community College before transferring to K-State. He is currently pursuing a dual degree in kinesiology and integrative physiology, with plans to attend physical therapy school after graduation. Michael believes everyone should be able to live a healthy and active lifestyle, allowing them to participate in activities they love for as long as possible. He enjoys weightlifting, time outdoors, and working on home projects when not training.
Liv Lubbers, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Liv is from the Manhattan area and is a dual-degree student at K-State and Manhattan Christian College. She plays volleyball at MCC while pursuing a degree in kinesiology at K-State. After earning her undergraduate degree, she intends to complete a master’s program in athletic training. Liv enjoys working with people and is passionate about enhancing the performance of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Outside of personal training, she spends her time hiking, training her dog, traveling, weightlifting, and playing volleyball.
Dani McCall, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Dani earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science and is a NASM certified personal trainer. She currently attends K-State and is applying to graduate school for Occupational Therapy. Having served in the military, Dani has a deep understanding of occupational physical demands. During college, she trained and captained a co-ed team, winning first place in ultra endurance and strength-based military skill competitions. She enjoys creating exercise progression plans to help people achieve health and performance goals. Beyond the gym, Dani is an avid reader and science fiction fan.
Ava Rottinghaus, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Ava is from Silver Lake, Kansas, and is currently attending K-State, where she is majoring in kinesiology. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to attend physical therapy school. Ava is passionate about helping others move better, stay active, and develop healthy habits that support long-term quality of life. She enjoys working with people of all experience levels and believes fitness should be both effective and enjoyable. In her free time, Ava enjoys playing recreational sports, spending time outdoors, and trying new recipes.
Hailey Skalsky, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Hailey graduated from Riley County High School and continued her athletic career, competing in track and cross country at Cloud County Community College and Fort Hays State University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Fort Hays and has a strong focus on women’s strength and wellness, including prenatal and postnatal. Hailey enjoys working with individuals of all backgrounds, from sports performance to general fitness, and strives to create an encouraging and approachable training environment for every client. Outside of personal training, she enjoys riding horses, hiking with her dog, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Elena Steinheider, CPT
PERSONAL TRAINER
Elena is from Lenexa, Kansas, and is currently pursuing a dual degree in Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology at K-State. With her sights set on physical therapy school, she is passionate about helping people stay active and live healthier, fuller lives. Her love for movement stems from seeing how physical activity supports not just physical well-being, but also mental health. Outside of training, Elena enjoys baking, exercising, and spending time with friends and family. Dedicated and compassionate, she strives to inspire others to find joy in movement and take steps toward becoming their best selves.
Jamie Abner
BILLING MANAGER | East location
Jamie Abner is a native of Arizona who brings 20 years of tactical experience as an Army wife and stay-at-home mom to her position at Maximum Performance. An avid community volunteer, Jamie returned to the workforce in 2011 after she and her husband completed a tour of duty in Germany and were reassigned to Fort Riley. In her spare time, Jamie enjoys traveling, photography, crafting and all things Harry Potter.
Kodee McFall
FRONT DESK COORDINATOR | West location
Kodee is a native from Nebraska and graduated from Manhattan Christian College in 2000. She and her husband, Scott, keep busy by attending the activities of their 3 children. If there is any spare time she likes to read, go on long walks and sometimes do a little running.
Emilie Arnold
FRONT DESK COORDINATOR | WEST location
Emilie joined Maximum Performance in August 2023 after serving as a manager for another local business. She loves to dance, knit, bake, read, and paint. Emilie has a black belt in Taekwondo, has performed in aerial arts, and also acted in an independent film. Well traveled, she’s experienced life from the East to the West coast and beyond to Germany and Japan. Emilie hopes to continue living life to the fullest and trying new things.
Diane Reddig
FRONT DESK COORDINATOR | EAST location
Diane grew up in a small western Kansas town and moved to Manhattan in 1993 for her husband’s job. She has over 14 years of experience in the medical field, which includes working at a family physician’s office in Manhattan. Prior to that, she worked in the school district for 10 years. Diane enjoys motorcycle rides, attending K-State football games and spending time with her grandchildren.
