Jessica Mertz serves as a First Responder and Nutrition Support specialist within the Apex High School athletics community, bringing more than a decade of experience in physical therapy, performance, and athlete wellness. Originally from Sidney, New York, Jessica was a multi-sport athlete in high school, competing in soccer, basketball, and softball, and danced competitively for more than 16 years, including at the University at Albany. She later became an endurance athlete, competing in Spartan races. She holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and maintains certifications in Precision Nutrition, CPR/AED, and first response care.

Jessica’s passion is rooted in movement, performance, and long-term health, with a strong desire to inspire young people to care for their bodies and build habits that support lifelong wellness. Her philosophy centers on trust, authenticity, and leading by example—believing you cannot ask others to do what you are not willing to do yourself. Through education, encouragement, and hands-on support, she helps student-athletes establish strong physical and nutritional foundations that extend far beyond competition.

In addition to her work at Apex, Jessica is the owner of her own physical therapy business in North Carolina, where she works daily with athletes of all ages. She has been recognized as the top physical therapist in Apex by Business Rate for both 2024 and 2025. What she enjoys most about being part of Apex athletics is the people and the opportunity to educate and empower youth. Outside of her professional work, Jessica enjoys running Spartan races, cooking, spending time outdoors, and being with her family, including her two-year-old child and black lab. A defining moment in her journey came after tearing her ACL during her senior year of college dance nationals—an injury that introduced her to physical therapy and ultimately shaped the career she is passionate about today.