Craig Parkes

Craig Parkes is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport at the University of South Alabama's College of Education & Professional Studies. He holds an Ed.D. in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2018), following a M.Sc. in Health Education (Ithaca College, 2012) and B.A. in Physical Education (University of Wolverhampton, 2011). His teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, field experience, and reflective practice in preparing physical education professionals.

Dr. Parkes' research focuses on occupational socialization theory's impact on physical education teacher recruitment/retention and pedagogy, with notable work on edTPA assessment challenges and teaching games for understanding (TGfU) methodologies. He has published 26 peer-reviewed articles and secured grants from the Spectrum Institute and ASAHPERD. Professional service includes roles as Health and Physical Education Program Coordinator at USA, CEPS Faculty Council member, and SYE Faculty Fellow.

His outreach extends to collaborations with Alabama education agencies, local schools, and professional organizations like ASAHPERD (served as 2022-2023 Vice President for Physical Education). Prior to USA, he spent 6.5 years as an assistant teaching professor at Penn State University and taught in the UK's public school system. His practical experience includes over 20 years in soccer coaching and coach education.