The People Behind Forza

Dirk Kokmeyer, PT, PhD, SCS

Founder | Board-Certified Sports Specialist

Dirk Kokmeyer founded Forza Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine with a simple vision: to bring world-class orthopedic and sports medicine rehabilitation to Central Maine while preserving the personalized care, continuity, and relationships that define an independent practice.

Dirk earned his initial degree in Physical Therapy from the Hogeschool van Utrecht in the Netherlands. He completed his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) at Rocky Mountain University in Provo, Utah, and later earned his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from Rocky Mountain University, where his research focused on shoulder function and orthopedic rehabilitation. He is also a Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS), a distinction earned by fewer than 2% of physical therapists nationwide, recognizing advanced expertise in sports physical therapy.

Prior to founding Forza, Dirk worked alongside internationally recognized orthopedic surgeons and rehabilitation specialists, including at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado—one of the world’s premier orthopedic and sports medicine centers. Those experiences continue to shape the philosophy of care at Forza, emphasizing meticulous evaluation, evidence-based treatment, patient education, and exceptional clinical outcomes.

Dirk has extensive experience treating orthopedic injuries, post-operative conditions, spine disorders, and athletes ranging from youth competitors to professional and Olympic athletes. In addition to his clinical practice, he has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and remains actively involved in clinical research, professional education, and the advancement of evidence-based orthopedic and sports medicine rehabilitation. His clinical interests include sports medicine, shoulder rehabilitation, return-to-sport testing, movement analysis, performance optimization, and helping patients understand not only how to recover—but why their treatment works.

Dirk is passionate about translating research into practical, understandable information that empowers patients to make informed decisions throughout their recovery.

Cari Hopkins, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist | Orthopedic & Sports Rehabilitation

Cari Hopkins earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Physical Education with a concentration in Exercise Science from the University of Maine before receiving her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of New England. Cari is also certified in dry needling.

A lifelong athlete, Cari competed in field hockey, basketball, and softball at Cony High School before continuing her athletic career at the University of Maine, where she served as President of the club field hockey team. She has also coached youth basketball and remains actively involved in her community through athletics and local events.

Cari enjoys treating orthopedic conditions across all ages and activity levels and is passionate about helping patients move better, recover confidently, and return to the activities they love. She will always greet you with a smile! Her background in exercise science and athletics allows her to develop individualized rehabilitation programs that emphasize movement quality, strength, and long-term function.

Outside the clinic, Cari enjoys walking, working out, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends.

Kristina Buck, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist | Sports Rehabilitation

Kristina Buck joined the Forza team after returning home to Maine following five years in Alaska. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from the University of New England before completing her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Husson University. She then completed a Sports Physical Therapy Residency through Select Physical Therapy, where she received advanced training in orthopedic rehabilitation, sports medicine, and return-to-sport care.

During her residency, Kristina provided on-field medical coverage and advanced rehabilitation for athletes at the University of Maine, Husson University, and John Bapst Memorial High School. Her background in athletic training and sports physical therapy allows her to confidently treat athletes of all ages while also helping active adults return to the activities they enjoy.

As a Hall-Dale High School graduate, Kristina is excited to be back serving the community where she grew up. She enjoys building meaningful relationships with patients and believes education, communication, and individualized treatment are essential to successful rehabilitation.

Outside of work, Kristina enjoys spending time with her husband, Ben, their two children, and their beagle, Bean. She loves being outdoors and is grateful to be raising her family back in Maine.