Brian Cronin, Mike Nilson and Jeff Hart started U-District PT in 2004 with a dream of combining physical therapy, adult fitness and youth sports training. They’ve been friends for 20 years and love the challenges and growth that has accompanied starting a business.
Matt Roth joined the partnership in 2022 after being part of the U-District family for years as an athlete, intern and physical therapist. The owners all work at different locations but come together every week to strengthen their friendship and serve the business.
Brian earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington and a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Eastern Washington University. He specializes in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation and co-founded U-District Physical Therapy and Sports Performance in Spokane, Washington, in 2004. Under his leadership, U-District has been recognized with the Spokane Small Business of the Year Award, Inlander Physical Therapy Business of the Year, and the Spokane Business Philanthropy Award.
Brian served as Adjunct Faculty in Eastern Washington University’s Physical Therapy Department from 2007 to 2019 and currently teaches Business Management in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Whitworth University. He is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the Washington State Private Practice Special Interest Group (PPSIG). Elected to the PPSIG Board in 2016, Brian currently serves as Board President. He also serves on the U-District Foundation Board, supporting initiatives that promote health and wellness for children and families in the Spokane community.
In 2018, Brian co-founded the U-Inspire Leadership Program, reflecting his passion for developing leaders within the U-District team as well as among businesses and individuals throughout the community.
In his free time, Brian enjoys outdoor activities such as mountain biking, fly fishing, boating, and water sports. He is also actively involved in coaching his children’s teams and the Gonzaga Prep Girls Flag Football team.
Matt received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon. Prior to George Fox, Matt graduated with a degree in Kinesiology from Whitworth University where he also played basketball reaching the Elite 8 and the Sweet 16’s twice.
He is very passionate about the patients that he works with, helping them achieve their full potential while using evidence-based practice in his treatments.
Matt completed a physical therapy serve trip to Uganda in the summer of 2018 where he treated children with various disabilities and limitations. He worked to leave a lasting impact by educating and empowering leaders and individuals in the community on how best to care for those in need.
He is originally from Spokane and a West Valley High School graduate. In his free time, he enjoys everything outdoors, including hiking, fishing, paddle boarding, and archery.
