About our Specialist
At The Sports Pod, we bring the full spectrum of sports therapy under one roof. From chiropractic care and sports rehabilitation to strength conditioning and needling, we offer everything you need for rehab, recovery, and peak performance. Simplify your journey to excellence with our comprehensive, expert care—all in one convenient location
Dr. Blake Wu, DC
Dr. Wu has committed to the relentless pursuit of human movement. He grew up as the son of two Chinese immigrants, instilling in him a hard work ethic and tenacity. He used these values to graduate from the University of Toronto, where he solidified his foundations in biomechanics, anatomy and physiology. He continued his education at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, receiving his Doctorate of Chiropractic in 2009. Dr. Wu always believed there was more in health care so he continued his education in dry needling, strength and conditioning, advanced rehabilitation and kinesiology. It has been his philosophy to continue to learn, grow and adapt within multiple health and fitness disciplines to create a strategy for preventing and managing athletic injuries.
Dr. Eric Varhalla, DC
Dr. Eric Varhalla, born in Austin, Texas, and raised in Copperas Cove, has always had a passion for sports, especially football. With a clear goal of working in athletics, he pursued an undergraduate degree in Athletic Medicine at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
After working as a personal trainer, Dr. Eric felt the need to do more and moved to Dallas to attend Parker University. There, he earned his Master’s in Functional Nutrition and Doctorate in Chiropractic. He also participated in a special sports-specific assignment, which honed his skills as a sports provider.
Dr. Eric further developed his expertise in sports rehab and soft tissue therapy, earning certifications in dry needling and ART. He is currently working on his CCSP (Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician). Before joining The Sports Pod in May 2024, Dr. Eric worked in San Marcos, Texas, where he was awarded Best Chiropractor of Hays County and named a Top Doc in Texas.
In his free time, Dr. Eric enjoys working out, taking naps, and competing in the Pokémon Trading Card Game. He’s a fan of PBJs, pizza, sushi, and wings (flats only!). His favorite movies include the Kung Fu Panda series and the first Jurassic Park. A WWE enthusiast and sneakerhead, Dr. Eric spent 17 years in the Air National Guard fixing jets and has now returned to Dallas to fix you.
Dr. Eric is excited to bring his expertise and enthusiasm to The Sports Pod, providing athletes with the top-notch care and hospitality you expect.
Norma-Jean Anaya, LMT
Norma-Jean Anaya has been in the Athletic and Health industry for 23 years, specializing in Fitness & Performance Training and Massage Recovery. She is currently completing her BS in Biology and Nursing with minors in Biochemistry and Biomedical Engineering. Her expertise lies in Neuro Recovery & Performance, and she enjoys addressing all muscle needs, including relaxation, athletic issues, and deep tissue work.
Norma-Jean’s professional experience includes working with the WNBA Dallas Wings for three years, and she now collaborates with WNBA/NBA teams in Dallas and San Antonio. Additionally, she is contracted with SMU Athletics, various pro sports teams, and professional athletes.
She is passionate about helping clients who strive to take care of their muscles, posture, and overall health. Norma-Jean has a particular interest in working with clients with neurological issues such as Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke, and Spinal Cord injuries. She also specializes in treating Frozen Shoulder and improving Ankle/Foot mobility.
Her qualifications include training in the following modalities and techniques:
- Active Release Technique
- Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex
- DBC Fitness
- Performance Enhancement Specialist
- Titleist Performance Institute L2
- Corrective Exercise Specialist
- Golf Fitness Specialist
- Functional Movement Specialist
- Selective Functional Movement Assessment
- Medical Massage Provider
- Carrick Neurology courses
Norma-Jean firmly believes that “Your Health Is Your Wealth” and is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their personal health goals!
Lorna Nyathi
Lorna brings exceptional organizational skills and a passion for efficiency to our clinic. As the eldest sibling, she naturally developed leadership, responsibility, and time management skills early on. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving, she expertly manages our administrative operations, ensuring smooth experiences for our athletes and staff.
Currently pursuing her Master’s in Music Business and Management at the University of London College of Contemporary Music, Lorna embodies the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. Her diverse background adds a unique perspective to our team, enhancing our collaborative efforts to provide exceptional care and service.
Lorna’s dedication to excellence and support for our clinic’s success is evident in her work. Her ability to juggle multiple responsibilities with tenacity makes her an invaluable asset, and we are proud to have her as an integral part of the The Sports Pod family.