Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #31) Megan Martin

2012-01-18T11:37:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of a living example of perseverance and commitment. She knows that sports are supposed to be fun and can reward you with many life lessons. She's become a great leader, knowing how to encourage others through both her actions and her words. Her strength shows both in the weight room and out. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Megan Martin
Sport(s): Volleyball
Position(s): DS/Libero
School: Stow-Munroe Falls High School
Graduation Year: 2013
AGSP Athlete Since: October 2009
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Dallas Cowboys
Favorite Professional Athlete: Dwayne Wayde
Favorite Lift: Back Squats
Favorite Movement Skill: Acceleration
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: working out or at volleyball practice.

What are your short-term goals? To have a winning volleyball season.

What are your long-term goals? To get into college.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has made me faster, stronger, and better mentally.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF MEGAN TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

AGSP can help you throw it down!

2012-01-13T19:11:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Not only can AGSP help you dunk, it can help you throw it down. Below Bob Peters of CVCA demonstrates the throw down in a recent game.

He trained hard at AGSP this summer and the results show!

Keep training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

AGSP can help you dunk!

2012-01-12T15:19:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out this fun video of AGSP athlete Rory Ziegler dunking for the first time! One of the many benefits of training at AGSP!

Special thanks to Nate Lundy for making the video!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #30) Norm Detrick

2012-01-06T13:23:00.007-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of an athlete that has made great progress since joining AGSP. He knows how to work hard, but also have fun. During each session he works to master the details of speed and strength that build his athletic performance. His commitment to training makes him an athlete with immense potential. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Norm Detrick
Sport(s): Baseball and Football
Position(s): 1st base, left tackle, defensive tackle
School: Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy
Graduation Year: 2015
AGSP Athlete Since: December 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Denver Broncos
Favorite Professional Athlete: Tim Tebow
Favorite Lift: Hang Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: at school or at practice.

What are your short-term goals? To try out for hockey next year, letter in football, and make the baseball team.

What are your long-term goals? To play Division 1 football.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I have become a lot stronger and faster.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF NORM TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #29) Nick DeLeone

2011-12-30T17:05:00.009-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of an up-and-coming athlete who's combination of talent, hard-work, and consistency will surely take him far. Somewhat of a perfectionist, he has the desire to perform at the highest level possible. He understands the value of teamwork and brings a lot of positive energy to each training session. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Nick DeLeone
Sport(s): Football and Baseball
Position(s): Running Back, Linebacker. Outfield, Infield, Catcher, Pitcher.
School: Walsh Jesuit High School
Graduation Year: 2015
AGSP Athlete Since: November 2011
Favorite Professional Sports Team: New York Yankees
Favorite Lift: Deadlift
Favorite Movement Skill: Ladder drills
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: eating, sleeping, and doing homework.

What are your short-term goals? To make the varsity teams in baseball and football.

What are your long-term goals? To earn an athletic scholarship to play football and baseball.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has made me more of a hard-worker. It has also made me faster and stronger.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF NICK TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #28) Erin McNulty

2011-12-28T13:28:00.008-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of a constant hard-worker who always trains with a positive attitude. She's willing to practice her form (whether it is her running form or lifting form) until she achieves the desired result. Each training session gets her closer to her goals of being the best athlete she can be. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Erin McNulty
Sport(s): Cross County and Track
Position(s): Runner
School: Saint Vincent- Saint Mary High School
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: Summer 2011
Favorite Professional Sports Team: The Cavs
Favorite Professional Athlete: Jim Thome
Favorite Lift: Front-Loaded Reverse Lunges
Favorite Movement Skill: Acceleration
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: running, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
What are your short-term goals? To break 21:00 minutes in the 5k for cross country and to get in the 2:20's in the 800m for track. Also, to run varsity in cross country.

What are your long-term goals? To run in college.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has made me stronger.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF ERIN TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #27) Michael Walter

2011-12-08T11:32:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of an athlete who knows how to persevere. Even when set-backs arise, he never gives up. He's not afraid to admit his weaknesses and make those the focus of his training. He's punctual, consistent, hard-working, and a great team player. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Michael Walter
Sport(s): Golf and Baseball
Position(s): Catcher
School: Woodridge High School
Graduation Year: 2015
AGSP Athlete Since: May 2009
Favorite Professional Sports Team: More of a college guy - Texas Longhorns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Colt McCoy
Favorite Lift: Back Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Multi-Direction
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: hanging out with friends, playing sports or video games.

What are your short-term goals? To play varsity baseball for my high school team.

What are your long-term goals? To play a Division One sport (golf).

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I have gotten faster and stronger. I feel ahead of my friends when we play sports.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF MICHAEL TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Congrats Liz!!!

2011-11-29T17:53:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

In case you haven't already heard, AGSP athlete Liz Reeves is going to play Division One Basketball next year! Read the Plain Dealer article here!

CONGRATS LIZ!!!!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #26) Maria Vanadia

2011-11-25T13:23:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!

We'd like to introduce you to Maria Vanadia. She plays softball for the Medina Bees and understands that success breeds from hard work. She is a very dedicated and goal oriented individual. She knows that to get better she needs to train hard. Maria puts in the hours and dedication needed to become faster, stronger, and more powerful each and everyday.

Athlete Name: Maria Vanadia
Sport(s): Softball
Position(s): Catcher, 3rd Basemen
School: Medina Senior High School
Graduation Year: 2013
AGSP Athlete Since: September 2011

Favorite Professional Sports Team: New York Jets
Favorite Lift: RDLs
Favorite Movement Skill: Foam Rolling
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: at school, softball practice, or sleeping.

What are your short-term goals? To get faster and stronger.

What are your long-term goals? To get an athletic scholarship for softball.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I've gotten stronger, faster, and leaner in the short time I have been here.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF MARIA TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Nathan Burandt and Akron General Sports Performance

AGSP Athletes in Action!

2011-11-23T12:47:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out Joe Penna #24 and other AGSP athletes in this great highlight video! Congrats to the Immaculate Heart of Mary 7/8 football players for a great season!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

AGSP in the Stow Sentry!

2011-11-21T20:34:00.002-05:00

In case you missed it, read this great article in the Stow Sentry about Akron General Sports Performance!

http://www.stowsentry.com/news/article/5125654

Akron General Sports Performance works with athletes to be faster, stronger

November 20, 2011

Located inside Akron General's building by Steels Corners and Route 8, is the area's best kept athletic secret, according to a press release.

The Sports Performance Department, which has been around since 2007, has trained more than 100 Stow athletes from a variety of sports and ages.

"Regardless of sport or age, athletes need to be fast, strong, and powerful. These are the skills we teach everyday," says Amanda Kephart, the facility's head coach.

Prior to Akron General Sports Performance, Coach Amanda (as her athletes call her) was a Division One Speed, Strength and Conditioning Coach at The University of Akron and The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

"We teach our athletes here in Stow the same skills I taught my Division One athletes." she says.

"Linear speed, lateral speed, strength development, power improvement are all learn-able skills that help athletes take their game to the next level."

The Sports Performance department, which Akron General started because of the high amount of young injured athletes their physical therapists were seeing, offers a year-round program with sessions available every day after school and on Saturday mornings. The sessions are 90 minutes.

The program is built around teaching proper biomechanics and physics of speed and scientifically-proven methods in strength and power development.

This science-based approach yields great gains in athletes' 10 yard sprint, vertical jump, broad jump, and 5-10-5 tests, which they routinely test once a month.

"[The best compliment] Besides parents calling saying how much improvement they see in their athletes' speed, strength and power," Coach Amanda asks, "is that our athletes have fun."

For information about the sports performance department call 330-945-3150 for a complimentary session or visit www.strengthcoachamanda.com.

RECRUITING SEMINAR! Get paid to play in college!

2011-11-09T12:49:00.008-05:00

NCAA College ATHLETIC RECRUITING INFORMATION SEMINAR:
How to get the exposure you need

WHERE: Akron General Wellness Center, Montrose
4125 Medina Road, Akron, OH 44333

WHEN: Nov. 21 at 7:30 pm

WHO: Kelly Kennedy, Former NCAA Division I Head Basketball Coach

HOW: Email Kelly@rightfitsports.com to reserve your spot

COST: $10 per family payable at the door

A message from Coach Kelly Kennedy,

I will be hosting a Recruiting Seminar on Nov. 21 at the Akron General Wellness Center in Montrose at 7:30 pm. Would you please share this information with your athletes and ask the athletic director to share with the other athletes. I will address situations for all sports.

Athletic Scholarships are becoming more and more competitive every year. There are more athletes and more certified events for AAU/Club programs to choose to attend. I have seen many VERY GOOD players get shut out of a scholarship situation because they were not proactive. I have also helped a lot of players to get in a great program that fits them because we started early. I will share with you how to use your involvement in your AAU/ Club program to your advantage. Not everyone is a Division I player. There are Division II and NAIA schools with a lot of scholarship money. They can't get out to recruit as much as DI's. YOU NEED YOU TO BE PROACTIVE. I can teach you how to open the right doors.

The recruiting and Scholarship rules are changing continuously. The academic standards are going to be raised for athletes entering College August of 2015. This will directly effect the Sophomores and younger. I will share these changes with you.

Here is a basketball specific example of a recruiting rule change that will have a HUGE IMPACT: There are only 4 coaches on a Division I staff and fewer on Division II, III and NAIA staffs to get out to evaluate players. Previously there were 20 days in July for evaluation. NOW, the NCAA is reducing that to just 12 DAYS in JULY. This is the major evaluation period for athletes to be "seen live", which is how coaches want to make the final call to offer scholarships. With a more limited viewing window it is IMPERATIVE to get the ball rolling early.

IT IS SIMPLY NOT ENOUGH TO JUST PLAY ON A TRAVEL TEAM. It is important to take an active role in recruiting. I will show you how to do it. I will teach you the ins an outs of the process. Freshman are not too young to start this process.

I look forward to seeing you on Nov. 21. Email Kelly@RightFitSports to save your spot
Kelly Kennedy
13 years Division I Basketball Coach (Iowa State, TCU, Oregon)
4 Years Head Coach at the University of Akron
5 Years as Recruiting Consultant with a 100% Success Rate of helping athletes get into a program that fits them athletically, academically and financially.

What Do College Coaches Look For When Recruiting?

2011-10-19T11:07:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone!

This video should help motivate you before the last Basketball Bootcamp of the 2011 year this Sunday October 23!

Keep Training!
Akron General Sports Performance and Coach Amanda

Athlete Spotlight #25) Michael Peters

2011-10-14T10:09:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of an athlete with a lot of potential. He takes nothing for granted. He knows that to be your best you have to train at the best of your ability each day, take advantage of opportunities, find your weaknesses and make them your strengths, and this has been his focus over the past several months. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Michael Peters
Sport(s): Basketball
Position(s): Shooting Guard
School: CVCA
Graduation Year: 2015
AGSP Athlete Since: Summer 2011

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Dallas Maverickss
Favorite Professional Athlete: Dirk Nowitzki
Favorite Lift: Hang Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing basketball at the park.

What are your short-term goals? To get varsity playing time.

What are your long-term goals? To be able to dunk.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I can jump higher and fun faster.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF MICHAEL TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Only 2 Basketball Bootcamps left!

2011-10-04T09:18:00.004-04:00

The Final 2 Basketball Bootcamps before the
2011 season!

Sunday October 16
and
Sunday October 23

10am-12
Akron Sports Complex
925 Grant Street
Akron, OH

$30/session

Limited spots!
Call Coach Kennedy to reserve your spot 330-329-5138
PRESENTED BY
AKRON GENERAL SPORTS PERFORMANCE and
COACH KELLY KENNEDY—Former Division I HEAD BASKETBALL COACH

GET FASTER!!
Athletes will cover ground faster and more efficiently
BEAT YOUR OPPONENT DOWN THE COURT = SCORE MORE

MOVE QUICKER!!
Athletes will change direction faster, safer, and more explosively
IMPROVE YOUR FIRST STEP ON OFFENSE AND DEFENSE

JUMP HIGHER!
Athletes will learn to increase their vertical jump!
IMPROVE YOUR REBOUNDING SKILLS and JUMP SHOT

BE STRONGER & MORE POWERFUL!!
Athletes will get stronger and play more physically!

BASKETBALL SPECIFIC SKILLS
combined with the SPEED, POWER, and AGILITY
SKILLS to improve your overall GAME.

Athlete Spotlight #24) Bob Peters

2011-09-30T12:04:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is a natural leader. He's willing to do the little things that make a big difference in his athletic abilities. His work ethic is contagious and makes everyone else around him better. He also has a great blend of working hard and having fun. You can find him hanging from the rim this winter! It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Bob Peters
Sport(s): Basketball
Position(s): Guard
School: CVCA
Graduation Year: 2013
AGSP Athlete Since: Summer 2011
Favorite Professional Sports Team: LA Lakers
Favorite Professional Athlete: Hope Solo
Favorite Lift: Hang Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing basketball.

What are your short-term goals? To play in the state basketball championships.

What are your long-term goals? To play college basketball.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has helped me become a quicker, stronger, and better all around athlete.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF BOB TRAINING AT AGSP!

(we've put them all into one video!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #23) Alex Punka

2011-09-19T18:26:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is the kind of athlete any team would want. He's focused, hard-working, motivated, consistent, willing to try new things, motivates others, leads by example, and he is smart! If you haven't heard of him yet, you will this winter, it is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Alex Punka
Sport(s): Basketball
Position(s): The 3 spot
School: CVCA
Graduation Year: 2013
AGSP Athlete Since: Summer 2011
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Clippers
Favorite Professional Athlete: Blake Griffin and Alex Morgan
Favorite Lift: Snatch Pull
Favorite Movement Skill: Drop Step
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: doing homework.

What are your short-term goals? To increase my vertical jump.

What are your long-term goals? To increase my vertical jump.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has increased my vertical jump.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF ALEX TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #22) Colin McNulty

2011-09-15T11:38:00.008-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight works hard every time he's at AGSP. He's a multi-sport athlete that has a bright future in high school and will be a great compliment to any team he plays for. He's willing to get out of his comfort-zone to become the best athlete he can be . It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Colin McNulty
Sport(s): Baseball, Basketball, Football, Track, and Swimming
Position(s): Baseball: pitcher, shortstop, centerfield. Basketball: center, wing. Football: inside linebacker, tight-end, guard.
School: Holy Family
Graduation Year: 2016
AGSP Athlete Since: Summer 2011
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Peyton Hillis
Favorite Lift: Snatch Pull
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing sports, hanging out with friends, riding my bike to Silver Lake.

What are your short-term goals? In basketball to make the eighth grade A team and in football to score two touchdowns.

What are your long-term goals? To play well in high school sports.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I feel a lot faster and stronger. I feel like I can do everything better and with more power.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF COLIN TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

BASKETBALL BOOTCAMP SUCCESS

2011-09-12T20:34:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Last Saturday's BASKETBALL BOOTCAMP was a huge hit! Athletes in attendance enjoyed the combination of speed and agility drills followed by basketball drills. "It just makes sense when you train this way," was a common saying of the day!

Check out a highlight video (this was just one portion of the bootcamp!)

This Saturday we are opening the doors to anyone interested in the BASKETBALL BOOTCAMP. All you have to do is call and register with Coach Kennedy at 330-329-5138 before Saturday morning.

BASKETBALL BOOTCAMP!

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17
9-11 AM

925 GRANT STREET
AKRON, OH

$30 (cash or check only)

Hopefully we will see you at this Saturday's BASKETBALL BOOTCAMP...and not your competition! ;-)

Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #21) Bryan Ritchie

2011-09-08T15:18:00.005-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is of a very hard worker. He never complains, in fact, he doesn't even hesitate to do what you ask him to do. His levelheadedness allows him to focus on the details of his training for maximum benefit. He's motivated by both his individual goals and team goals to get the most out of every training session. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Bryan Ritchie
Sport(s): Basketball and Baseball
Position(s): Point Guard, Shooting Guard, Centerfield
School: Stow-Munroe Falls High School
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: July 2011
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Indians, Cavs, Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Grady Sizemore and Michael Brantley
Favorite Lift: Front Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Drop-step
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: going to basketball open gyms.

What are your short-term goals? To play varsity in either sport.

What are your long-term goals? To go to college for free.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I can jump higher to get more rebounds and am stronger so I can hit farther.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF BRYAN TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Basketball Bootcamp! Fine tune your game before the 2011 season!

2011-08-30T10:43:00.003-04:00

PRESENTED BY
AKRON GENERAL SPORTS PERFORMANCE and
COACH KELLY KENNEDY—Former Division I HEAD BASKETBALL COACH

GET FASTER!!
Athletes will cover ground faster and more efficiently
BEAT YOUR OPPONENT DOWN THE COURT = SCORE MORE

MOVE QUICKER!!
Athletes will change direction faster, safer, and more explosively
IMPROVE YOUR FIRST STEP ON OFFENSE AND DEFENSE

JUMP HIGHER!
Athletes will learn to increase their vertical jump!
IMPROVE YOUR REBOUNDING SKILLS and JUMP SHOT

BE STRONGER & MORE POWERFUL!!
Athletes will get stronger and play more physically!

BASKETBALL SPECIFIC SKILLS
combined with the SPEED, POWER, and AGILITY
SKILLS to improve your overall GAME.

Dates: September 10
and/or September 17th
Time: 9—11 AM

Questions: call Kelly Kennedy
330-329-5138

Location: Akron Sports Complex
925 Grant Street

Cost: $30 per session

Registration Form: Please cut this section and mail with check to: Akron General Sports Performance
4300 Allen Road, Stow, OH 44224 by Wed., Sept. 7th.
Session: Check the one that applies: ____ September 10 ($30) ____ September 17 ($30) ____ Both ($60)
Name: ____________________________________ Gender: _____ Grade: _____ Phone: ______________
Email: ____________________________________ High School: ___________________ Position: _______
Address: __________________________________ City: __________________ Zip: __________________

Athlete Spotlight #20) LaTasha Samson-Akpan

2011-08-11T20:27:00.008-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight focuses on a very dedicated volleyball player that is going to play Division One at Virginia Tech. She trains hard and fast. Always looking to get better she puts in the time and effort here at Sports Performance. She started with us in the beginning of May and made huge strides in performance, most notably in speed and power. It is now time to meet...

Athlete Name: LaTasha Samson-Akpan
Sport(s): Volleyball
Position(s): Middle Hitter
School: Copley High School (Virginia Tech)
Graduation Year: 2011 from Copley
AGSP Athlete Since: May 2011

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Miami Heat and Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite Professional Athlete: Dwayne Wade and Troy Polamalu
Favorite Lift: Bulgarian Split Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Lateral Acceleration

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: running, playing volleyball or hanging with friends.

What are your short-term goals? To start as a freshman.

What are your long-term goals? To survive engineering and get my degree.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has increased my vertical jump, speed, and I have better balance.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF LaTasha TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Nathan Burandt and Akron General Sports Performance

Get to Know Your Coach: Anthony Colarusso

2011-08-09T17:10:00.006-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Athletes at AGSP get to work with the area's best sports performance coaches during their training sessions. Recently I did a Q&A with Coach Anthony Colarusso, check it out and get to know your coaches better!

Our athletes know you as Coach Anthony Colarusso. What does Coach Anthony like to do outside of making athletes better?
I am a pretty big proponent of practicing what I preach. I love Olympic Weightlifting and anticipate competing in several meets around Ohio in the upcoming months. I’m also a pretty big advocate of CrossFit training when properly implemented. I enjoy going outdoors when I can, especially if it involves going down to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and sprinting up big hills. When I’m not doing something that requires physical exertion, I enjoy relaxing at home, eating lots of good food, reading, and hanging out with friends.

How did you get started working with athletes?
I've been an athlete in some way, shape, or form for most of my life. Growing up in Northeast Ohio, I dabbled in all kinds of sports. Basketball was my first love, but I also played baseball and soccer as a kid. I ran cross country and track in junior high and played football in high school for Stow-Munroe Falls. In high school, I was a self-proclaimed gym rat. I never was the biggest, fastest, or strongest athlete, so I spent a lot of my time training in the weight room. It was there that I realized I wanted to be able to train athletes for a living. My first experience working with athletes came when I was a student at Baldwin-Wallace College. I spent a summer interning at Akron General Sports Performance with Coach Amanda and knew from the onset of the internship that this was the job for me. Fast-forward about two years and here I am now.

Based on your experience, what is the one, biggest physical skill that today's athlete lacks?
This varies from athlete to athlete, but I feel the biggest skill we try to teach as strength and conditioning coaches is kinesthetic awareness – knowing where your body is in space and how to control it. It amazes me how many great athletes out there cannot perform a proper bodyweight squat without rounding their back, riding up onto their toes, or claiming that they just cannot go any lower. This isn’t to say that athletes need to be able to squat to do well in their sport, but it certainly doesn’t hurt!

What do you like most about working with athletes?
The ability to make an impact and change a life is truly priceless. Coaches have the opportunity to do this every day. I live by the motto that a good coach will make you a better athlete, while a great coach will make you a better person. Obviously, I aspire to be a great coach, and I look forward to getting to know all the athletes who train at Akron General Sports Performance.

What advice would you give today's athlete?
Keep working hard, both in your sport and outside of athletics. Train smart, stay disciplined, and be patient. All good things come in time. Learn to transfer the work ethic you put into your sport to other areas of your life and success will follow.

Thanks Coach Anthony for your great energy and great coaching!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Core 101, episode 2

2011-08-04T20:09:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Core TV, episode 2 is now available at OhioOutside! Another set of exercises you can do at home to improve performance!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlight #19) Stephen Morris

2011-07-25T11:48:00.007-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 19th Athlete Spotlight has to be the summer's most dedicated and focused athlete. This athlete knows what he wants. He trains with a desire to leave each workout better. He comes in for extra training and he asks what he can do when he's not here to get better. His improvement from the beginning of summer to now has been incredible and he still has a few more weeks! It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Stephen Morris
Sport(s): Soccer
Position(s): Defender
School: Cedarville University
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: May 2011

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Real Madrid
Favorite Professional Athlete: Ricardo Kaka
Favorite Lift: Hang Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing soccer, volunteering at a local urban ministry.

What are your short-term goals? To become a starter and have significant minutes over the next 3 years.

What are your long-term goals? To be able to take the skills and lessons I've learned into coaching or sports ministry.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I've gotten stronger, quicker, and more explosive.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF STEPHEN TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlighting #18) Alec White

2011-07-19T09:53:00.007-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 18th Athlete Spotlight is a great combination of intensity and intelligence. When he walks into the weight room, everyone becomes more focused and hard working. He is the ideal football player because he gives 100% to all of his tasks and gets his goals accomplished. His attention to detail has allowed him to get better at every training session. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Alec White
Sport(s): Football
Position(s): Guard, Defensive End, Outside Linebacker
School: Tallmadge High School
Graduation Year: 2013
AGSP Athlete Since: May 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: New England Patriots
Favorite Professional Athlete: Tim Tebow
Favorite Lift: Power Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Lateral Shuffle
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing sports, weight lifting, and hanging out with friends.

What are your short-term goals? To start both ways on the varsity level.

What are your long-term goals? To attend an Ivy League School and play sports there.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has made me become an all around better athlete. It has made me faster and more explosive.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF ALEC TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Athlete Spotlighting #17) John Rensel

2011-07-12T17:21:00.007-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 17th Athlete Spotlight is of the kind of athlete any team would want. His calm focus and discipline have led to continual gains in his athletic ability. He strives to improve all aspects of his performance and is open-minded. He is always willing to help others and is not afraid to do extra work. Tallmadge is lucky to have...

Athlete Name: John Rensel
Sport(s): Baseball, Basketball, Football
Position(s): 3rd Base, 1st Base, Pitcher/Power Forward/Left Tackle
School: Tallmadge
Graduation Year: 2015
AGSP Athlete Since: Summer 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Phillies
Favorite Professional Athlete: Josh Hamilton
Favorite Lift: Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Acceleration
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Playing Baseball, Hanging with Friends, School

What are your short-term goals? To play on varsity (make the varsity baseball team as a freshman).

What are your long-term goals? Play college baseball, hopefully pro.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I'm a lot faster, a lot stronger, and I just feel better when I play.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF JOHN TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart and Akron General Sports Performance

Core 101 with Coach Amanda and AGSP

2011-06-27T13:19:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out 3 Core Exercises that will make you a better athlete in less than 10 minutes right at home!

For more great info check out www.ohiooutside.com

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

May 2011 @ AGSP

2011-06-15T16:52:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

May was a big month at AGSP as athletes trained for combines, camps, and new coaches. Check out some of the action below!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

April 2011 @ AGSP

2011-05-11T19:43:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!

April was a great month of training at Akron General Sports Performance! Check out some of the highlights!

Call and schedule your free trail session today! 330-945-3150 (Stow) or 330-665-8200 (Fairlawn)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Get to Know Your Coach: Amanda Kephart

2011-05-09T12:42:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Athletes at AGSP get to work with the area's best sports performance coaches during their training sessions. Here is a Q&A done with me (Coach Amanda Kephart), check it out and get to know your coaches better!

Our athletes know you as Coach Amanda Kephart, what does Coach Amanda like to do outside of making athletes better?
I love spending time in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and hiking. I enjoy learning and improving myself in all aspects of life.

How did you get started working with athletes?
As a high school athlete I started working out by myself at the local gym. I fell in love with the weight room and its results because I was the only one responsible for what I got or for what I didn't get.

Based on your experience, what is the one, biggest physical skill that today's athlete lacks? How do you address that need?
Basic Strength. It is amazing how new athletes can't even perform a proper body weight squat or pushup. I believe the AGSP program turns weak athletes strong by teaching them how to move their body better without weights and then with external loading. This allows them to perform at the highest level possible.

You have a lot of Collegiate Division One Speed, Strength, and Conditioning experience, how has time at the collegiate level helped your current athletes?
The collegiate level was great because it was all about results. The sports coaches only cared if their athletes became faster, stronger, and more powerful. That same focus on results defines our program at AGSP... we know how to get results and that's what we get, RESULTS.

What do you like most about working with athletes?
Being able to guide them closer to achieving their athletic dreams and seeing them become reality.

What advice would you give today's athlete?
Have an optimistic attitude that defies your circumstances. You can only control your attitude and your preparation, embrace that!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Baseball and Acceleration

2011-05-02T21:18:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

I had the pleasure of watching four of our AGSP baseball athletes play (and win) this past weekend. It was great to see them competing at a high level and using the mechanics we teach at AGSP. The biggest skill that they use on the diamond is acceleration (your first 1-10 steps in sprinting). I was able to get some great video and pictures of them accelerating in action...check it out!

Don't know how to learn and practice acceleration mechanics? Akron General Sports Performance can help! Call today at 330-945-3150 (Stow) or 330-665-8200 (Fairlawn) to schedule your free trial session! Affordable and flexible training programs for all types of athletes!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #16) Parker Henderson

2011-04-20T19:38:00.006-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 16th Athlete Spotlight is of someone who has had a tougher journey then most...overcoming some big time injuries with an unwavering determination. This determination has allowed him to make the most of every training session at AGSP. All aspects of his performance have improved, his running, jumping, strength and power. If he keeps this up he WILL reach all of his goals, it is time for you to meet...

Athlete Name: Parker Henderson
Sport(s): Baseball
Position(s): 3rd Base, 1st Base, Pitcher
School: Kimpton Middle School, soon to go to Walsh Jesuit High School
Graduation Year: 2015
AGSP Athlete Since: September 2010

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Local Teams (Cavs, Indians, Browns)
Favorite Professional Athlete: Tim Lincecum
Favorite Lift: Clean Deadlift & Back Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: working out with my team, going to LifeCenter Plus to condition, playing video games, and hanging out with friends.

What are your short-term goals? Become the quickest on the team, have the best average, the best ERA, and best fielding percentage. I basically want to lead all team statistics.

What are your long-term goals? Play at the college level.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I've become quicker, I have more endurance, I'm a lot stronger, and I've become one of the top athletes on my team.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF PARKER TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #15) Vinny Pugliese

2011-04-06T20:27:00.008-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 15th Athlete Spotlight is one of the original Akron General Sports Performance athletes and he exemplifies what AGSP is all about...becoming the best athlete you can be. This athlete has gone from a young and hungry high school football player to recruited, soon to play Division One football player. And all the way, he has kept the same quiet, hardworking, consistent work ethic. We can't wait to see him play at the next level and are honored to be a part of his athletic journey, it is time for you to meet...

Athlete Name: Vinny Pugliese
Sport(s): Football
Position(s): Linebacker/Fullback
School: Walsh Jesuit High School
Graduation Year: 2011
AGSP Athlete Since: 2007
PLAYING D1 FOOTBALL AT: Columbia University

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Peyton Hillis
Favorite Lift: Overhead Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Multi-Direction
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing basketball with friends.

What are your short-term goals? Get playing time as a college freshman.

What are your long-term goals? Become a captain.

How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? I'm quicker, more explosive and stronger.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF VINNY TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart & Coach Nathan Burandt

March 2011 @ AGSP

2011-04-04T21:02:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out the newest video of athletes training at AGSP during the month of March!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #14) Matt Leupold

2011-03-15T15:24:00.007-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 14th Athlete Spotlight is of someone who quietly, but consistently trains hard at AGSP. He wins the respect of other athletes through his good attitude, willingness to learn, and positive actions. He is always eager to learn how to improve his movement and never hesitates to help others. It is time for you to meet...

Athlete Name: Matt Leupold
Sport(s): Soccer
Position(s): Outside Defender
School: Stow-Munroe Falls High School
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: December 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Columbus Crew
Favorite Professional Athlete: Chad Marshall
Favorite Lift: Back Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: playing soccer, playing video games, or reading.
What are your short-term goals? To make varsity on my high school soccer team. What are your long-term goals? To start on a college team.

How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? I feel a lot stronger and faster. I also feel like I can accelerate faster on the soccer field.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEOS OF MATT TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

RECAP: College Recruiting

2011-03-07T20:31:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

The College Recruiting Seminar last night was a huge success for all the athletes and parents in attendance!

The driving home point was, "It is all about developing."

Coach Kelly Kennedy of RightFitSports talked about developing an athlete's

Sport Specific Skills
Sports Performance Skills and you know where you can do that at ;-)
Grades and GPA
Recruiting Marketability separating yourself from other similar-level athletes

As a former Division One Basketball Coach, Kennedy talked about what coaches look for in athletes... they want to see the above list improve year after year! The first 3 are pretty straight forward, but how do you improve on your marketability? Well that's where a tool like RightFitSports comes in... it let's you get your name out there without breaking any NCAA Rules to the type of schools you are interested in.

RightFitSports let's you make a profile (with that all important game film) that you can send to schools based on your interests such as programs offered, division, state, size, etc.
Talk about taking more control of your athletic future! You work hard, train hard, and get good grades...so why wouldn't you work on developing your marketability through a tool like RightFitSports?

For more information visit http://www.rightfitsports.com/ or contact Coach Kelly Kennedy at kelly@rightfitsports.com

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

College Recruiting Seminar this Sunday Night!

2011-02-28T13:30:00.001-05:00

Akron General Sports Performance is hosting a

COLLEGE RECRUITING SEMINAR
Featuring former D1 Basketball Coach and current Recruiting Coach Kelly Kennedy of Right Fit Sports

Location: North Performance Center Conference Room (make right once entered the building, down hallway next to fireplace)

Date and Time: Sunday March 6 at 7:00 PM

Cost: $10/pre-register or $15/at the door (a portion of the money will go to your Right Fit Sports account if you decide to use this great recruiting tool)

How to Register: Send an email to akephart@agmc.org and kelly@rightfitsports.com Provide your athlete name, sport, grade, school, and email address.

Ways to Pay: Check written out to Kelly Kennedy (if you have pre-registered you can give your check to Coach Amanda or give it at the door at the discounted price)

*Yes, Non-AGSP athletes can sign-up
*Yes, you can sign-up even if you haven't been to AGSP in awhile

Plain and simple, I wish I had this recruiting tool when I was a high school athlete. It takes all the guess work out of recruiting and helps you take more control over your athletic career.

For more information please email Coach Amanda or Kelly Kennedy or call 330-945-3183.

Some "Ups"

2011-02-23T20:59:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Just wanted to "up" everyone's mood by sharing this awesome picture of one of our athletes, Courtney Kennedy, getting some great "ups" at a recent basketball game.
Courtney has added 5 inches to her vertical since she started training at AGSP! Learn how to jump higher at Akron General Sports Performance and try it for free by calling 330-945-3150!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Coach Sowers is back in Akron!

2011-02-21T11:06:00.005-05:00

Congratulations and Welcome Home AGSP Founder & Supervisor, Coach Craig Sowers!

Be on the lookout for even more great things happening at Akron General Sports Performance with Coach Sowers being back in Akron! ~ Coach Amanda Kephart

University of Akron Names New Director of Strength and Conditioning for Football

Courtesy: Akron Media Relations
Release: 02/18/2011

Craig Sowers is Akron's new director of strength and conditioning for football.
View larger Courtesy: --

Craig Sowers is Akron's new director of strength and conditioning for football.
AKRON, Ohio - University of Akron alumnus and former Zips student-athlete Craig Sowers was named UA's director of strength and conditioning for football on Friday, second-year head coach Rob Ianello announced. Sowers boasts a diverse background in athletic performance and development at both the collegiate level and in the private sector.

"I am thrilled to add Craig to our staff and I know he is excited to return to Northeast Ohio and his alma mater," Ianello said. "He has a unique background in both strength training and speed development which will really benefit the growth of our players."

Since 2008, Sowers has been the assistant head coach for athletic performance at UCLA, where he assisted with training and designed and implemented a speed program for the Bruins' football team. He also had complete oversight of training for the men's volleyball and women's soccer squads.

Prior to relocating to the West Coast, Sowers served as the director of human performance for Akron General Sports Performance in Stow, Ohio, in 2007. During the four previous years, he was the director of performance at Velocity Sports Performance at locations in Mayfield Village, Ohio, and Irvine, Calif. In that role, he oversaw all aspects of speed, power and strength development for athletes at the high school, collegiate and professional level. He served on the Sports Performance Directors Advisory Council during that time and was its chairman in 2006-07.

From 2000-03, Sowers was the head strength and conditioning coach at UTEP. He oversaw all aspects of speed, strength and conditioning for the University's 17 NCAA varsity sports and approximately 350 athletes. The football team was Western Athletic Conference champions in 2000.

From 1996-2000, he was an assistant strength and conditioning coach at UCLA and was in charge of men's and women's volleyball, men's and women's water polo, women's track and field, and men's and women's soccer, and also assisted with football. During his tenure at UCLA, both the men's soccer and women's water polo teams captured a national championship.

From 1993-96, Sowers was a student assistant on Akron's strength and conditioning staff.

Sowers earned a bachelor of science degree in physical education from UA in 1996 and was a member of the Zips' football team. He completed a master's degree in kinesiology from the UTEP in 2008 and is CSCS, SCCC and USAW Level I certified.

Athlete Spotlighting #13) Aaron Fink

2011-02-15T15:23:00.009-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 13th Athlete Spotlight is one of the best examples of leadership, patience, open-mindedness, and discipline that I can think of. This athlete never gives up on anyone or anything; he will improve his game, he will improve his team, he will help lead his team to their goals. He is also one of the most level-headed athletes I have ever met. He does not shy away from tough situations, but instead embraces them with a clear-mindedness that is far superior to most of his peers. It is time to meet...

Athlete Name: Aaron Fink
Sport(s): Football
Position(s): Offensive Lineman
School: Woodridge High School
Graduation Year: 2011
AGSP Athlete Since: March 2010

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Rob Sims
Favorite Lift: Squats
Favorite Movement Skill: Multi D

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Lifting at my high school
What are your short-term goals? To get rim
What are your long-term goals? To win a state championship
How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? It has made me a quicker and more explosive athlete

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF AARON TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Jan 2011 @ AGSP

2011-02-02T20:58:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out a month's work of athlete's improving their speed, strength, and power!

These athletes started the year right, did you?

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #12) Nick Gratto

2011-01-11T15:26:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 12th Athlete Spotlight could have easily been our 1st because he has been training with some of AGSP's staff since before he was in high school! Now a senior, this athlete leads by example, effort, and commitment. Focus is never a question. His attention to detail and willingness to help others make him not only a great teammate, but a great role model. It is time for you to meet...

Athlete Name: Nick Gratto
Sport(s): Baseball, Soccer
Position(s): Shortstop/Pitcher, Goal Keeper
School: Kenston High School
Graduation Year: 2011
AGSP Athlete Since: 2007 (at AGSP, with some of the staff before AGSP opened)

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Minnesota Vikings
Favorite Professional Athlete: Gianluigi Buffon

Favorite Lift: Overhead Squats
Favorite Movement Skill: Running with the harness
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Practicing or doing homework.
What are your short-term goals? To play varsity baseball or soccer at a top-tier academic university
What are your long-term goals? To earn an MBA and pursue a career in business.
How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? I have noticed an incredible improvement in overall athleticism, including increased flexibility, durability and strength, making me stronger and more powerful.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF NICK TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Endurance Running Analysis & Correction Clinic

2011-01-05T20:49:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!

This Saturday we will be holding our 3rd Endurance Running Analysis & Correction Clinic. We got rave reviews from our earlier clinics, such as:

"Hi Coach Amanda, I LOVED the clinic you put on yesterday, and I really learned a LOT." - Gale C.

"First, thank you for a great session on Saturday. I thought it was extremely informative and a heck of a deal for the cost! It's easy to get into certain habits but this clinic helped me realize that I need to take the time to stretch, strength train, and do things like the foam roller to not just be a better runner but be able to keep running. It was a lot of information but I liked the fact that you kept it pretty simple and focusing on doing what you can. I appreciated all your time and effort you spent with us."
- Jennifer P.

Spots are limited for this small group clinic that includes video analysis and skills each runner can use to help improve their current form.

Endurance Running Analysis & Correction Clinic
Have our Certified Coaches analyze and correct your running
WHO WILL BENEFIT?
Adults that participate in races from 5K to Iron-Mans!.
COMPONENTS
Upon completion of the clinic each participant will have the ability to:
- Understand biomechanically correct running form
- Identify improper running techniques and how to correct them
- Utilize running skills and drills to address and improve technique
- Understand the value of proper strength training and its affect on performance
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Participants will be videotaped at both the beginning and end of the course, this will be reviewed by the coach
- Individual "homework" will be provided to each participant, focusing on his/her specific running mechanics (unlike other running services, you will be empowered with abilities to improve yourself, not dependent on additional services/fees!)
DETAILS
Clinic will last 3 hours
8 participants per clinic
Cost: $30/sports performance members, $40/non-members
10am – 1pm
SESSION DATE
Saturday, January 8
4300 Allen Road, Stow, Oh 44313 (immediate left as you enter)
REGISTRATION
Call the reservation line at: 330-945-3150 to reserve your spot! Limit is 8!

Email questions to:
Amanda Kephart MS, CSCS, USAW Club Coach
Head Sports Performance Coach
Akron General Health and Wellness- North
Email: akephart@agmc.org

Finishing the year STRONG @ AGSP!

2010-12-29T20:52:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

AGSP athletes finished 2010 in a big way, check it out!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

December 2010 @ AGSP

2010-12-29T10:05:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Even with the busy holiday season, AGSP athletes have been committed to becoming faster, stronger, and more powerful during the month of December.

Become a part of the area's best Sports Performance program by calling 330-945-3150 and scheduling your free trial today!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Walsh Jesuit Women's Basketball in Action

2010-12-20T10:09:00.008-05:00

Hello Everyone,

AGSP trains many of the Walsh Jesuit Women's Basketball players in the off-season and this year is working with the whole squad once a week to improve their speed, agility, and overall athletic performance throughout the season.

I had the opportunity to see the girls win on Saturday and while I was there I caught some great speed and agility shots of the girls (AGSP athletes will clearly see the acceleration mechanics).

It is always fun to see the skills practiced at AGSP in action!

Check out some videos!

Keep Training! (I know the Walsh Jesuit Women's Basketball Team is!)
Coach Amanda Kephart

Supervisor Craig Sowers' INCREASING YOUR TOP SPEED

2010-12-14T14:43:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Coach Craig Sowers, AGSP Founder and Supervisor and current UCLA Sports Performance Coach, has put together a great article sharing some of the science on how we (AGSP) teach athletes to increase their top speed. Coach Sowers demonstrates some of the drills AGSP athletes do in our world-class program.

INCREASING YOUR TOP SPEED, by Coach Craig Sowers
(click above title or below picture for article)

Want to train like Division One athletes?

Want to learn the same things they learn to increase their speed?
Want to train in the Akron-area with coaches that work with Top D1 Sport Performance Coaches?
Then you need to train at Akron General Sports Performance (AGSP)!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

ENDURANCE RUNNING ANALYSIS & CORRECTION

2010-12-08T12:39:00.008-05:00

Hello Everyone!

This Saturday we will be holding our 2nd Endurance Running Analysis & Correction Clinic. We got rave reviews from our Inaugural Clinic, such as:

"Hi Coach Amanda, I LOVED the clinic you put on yesterday, and I really learned a LOT." - Gale C.

Spots are limited for this small group clinic that includes video analysis and skills each runner can use to help improve their current form.

Endurance Running Analysis & Correction Clinic
Have our Certified Coaches analyze and correct your running
WHO WILL BENEFIT?
Adults that participate in races from 5K to Iron-Mans!.
COMPONENTS
Upon completion of the clinic each participant will have the ability to:
- Understand biomechanically correct running form
- Identify improper running techniques and how to correct them
- Utilize running skills and drills to address and improve technique
- Understand the value of proper strength training and its affect on performance
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Participants will be videotaped at both the beginning and end of the course, this will be reviewed by the coach
- Individual "homework" will be provided to each participant, focusing on his/her specific running mechanics (unlike other running services, you will be empowered with abilities to improve yourself, not dependent on additional services/fees!)
DETAILS
Clinic will last 3 hours
10 participants per clinic
Cost: $30/sports performance members, $40/non-members
10am – 1pm
SESSION DATE
Saturday, December 11
4300 Allen Road, Stow, Oh 44313 (immediate left as you enter)
REGISTRATION
Call the reservation line at: 330-945-3150 to reserve your spot! Limit is 8!

Email questions to:
Amanda Kephart MS, CSCS, USAW Club Coach
Head Sports Performance Coach
Akron General Health and Wellness- North
Email: akephart@agmc.org

2nd Half of November 2010 @ AGSP

2010-12-06T19:57:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Area athletes are getting stronger, faster, and more powerful at Akron General Sports Performance. Become a part of the area's best sports performance program and become the best athlete you can be!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Kids Benefit from Weight Training

2010-11-26T13:33:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Not sure about the safety of weight training for kids/adolescents?
Then you need to check out this NY Times Article.
Get a quick history lesson, get the facts, and get lifting at AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

First Half of November 2010 @ AGSP

2010-11-18T15:23:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

November is happening at AGSP! Our athletes are pushing hard to finish 2010 in a big way!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Last two weeks of October at AGSP

2010-11-09T11:17:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

It is already November...how did you spend your October?
AGSP athletes spent it becoming faster, stronger, and more powerful (and their November test numbers prove it!).

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Happy Halloween from AGSP!

2010-10-30T07:55:00.011-04:00

Even the Tin Man gets a great workout at AGSP!

Get well-oiled for life at Akron General Sports Performance!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Week of 10/18/10 @ AGSP

2010-10-26T17:45:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Great new video with lots of athlete clips!
Athletes & Parents, you are welcome to post these videos on your facebook!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Week of 10/11/10 @ AGSP

2010-10-18T11:53:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Lots of hard-work with lots of results this week! Check it out!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Get to Know Your Coach: Nathan Burandt

2010-10-11T11:08:00.005-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Athletes at AGSP get to work with the area's best sports performance coaches during their training sessions. Recently I did a Q&A with Coach Nathan Burandt, check it out and get to know your coaches better!

Our athletes know you as Coach Nathan Burandt, what does Coach Burandt like to do outside of making athletes better?
I actually like to do a lot of things out side of training athletes. First and foremost I love spending time with my family. I try to play with Jasmine and Damien as much as possible (my two kids). I personally love to train myself. I'm constantly scheming and developing programs and I try them out on myself. Out side of training I play on some men's league softball teams. Other than training athletes, music is another passion I have. I no longer play any instruments but I love going to concerts. I've seen bands like Throwdown, Chimaira, Poison the Well, Soulfly, Slayer, and Machine Head and many others many times.

How did you get started working with athletes?
I have always had a passion for sport and training. I trained for diving, swimming, football, and rugby. I was one of those gym rats that would spend as much time as possible training. Well that passion coupled with the passion to want to teach others led me to training athletes. I always believed in needing to train mind, body, and spirit and this allows me to teach and train that same aspect.
Based on your experience, what is the one, biggest physical skill that today's athlete lacks? How do you address that need?
I feel today athletes lack mobility. Most athletes spend their time outside of training sitting. Most of them don't take rolling and stretching very seriously and don't really address it the way they should. They may do a very good job here at the facility but when it comes to practice and game times they don't focus on their mobility, flexibility or a proper warm up. I am constantly evaluating the athletes while they are in the program. If I notice that they are having some type of mobility issue I address it right away and come up with a plan that they can follow out side of the program.

You have a lot of Collegiate Division One Speed, Strength, and Conditioning experience, how has time at the collegiate level helped your current athletes?
I learned a lot at the collegiate level. I'm able to parlay the information that I learned at the collegiate level to the athletes here. I can easily say "We trained our college athletes the same way we are training you!" This helps a lot with the athletes when they ask, "Why are we doing this?" I can tell them not only why we are doing something functionally but that the collegiate athletes are also focusing on the same aspects.

What do you like most about working with athletes?
I love the comradery and the feeling that I am helping a person get better and that doesn't always have to be about athletics. Just knowing that the athletes can come and talk to me about anything and that I can give them the best advice I can and to try and make this the best part of their day makes me love what I do.
What advice would you give today's athlete?
Have fun. Try as many sports as you possibly can and don't stop having fun. Remember, it's about the journey not the destination.

Thanks Coach Burandt for you expertise, passion, and great coaching!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Week of 10/4/10 @ AGSP

2010-10-09T10:05:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out this week's video of area athletes having fun and becoming better athletes!

Join in the fun today at Akron General Sports Performance!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Coach Sowers shows you 5 ways to Improve Your 40yd Dash

2010-10-07T11:35:00.005-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Coach Craig Sowers, founder and supervisor of Akron General Sports Performance, has written a great article on 5 Ways to Improve Your 40 Yard Dash.

If you are looking for more speed, this article is a must for you.

Check it out HERE!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

FREE EVENT this Saturday October 9th!

2010-10-05T11:40:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Don't miss this great chance to see Sports Performance in action and get to meet & greet with Coach Amanda!

This Saturday October 9 is Akron General's 2010 Health Expo. It's free and there will be tons of free stuff along with free tours of the facility! See the flier HERE !

I will be there in the morning (best chance to meet with me will be between 9-11am).

I will also be giving away FREE TRIAL SESSIONS to Sports Performance!

If you've been thinking about becoming a better, faster, stronger, more powerful athlete here is your chance!
Adults, did you know our Adult Performance Class is one of the fastest growing classes in the area!? Why? BECAUSE IT WORKS!

See you this Saturday!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Week of 9/27/10 @ AGSP

2010-10-01T15:11:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Check out AGSP athletes lifting to become stronger and more powerful!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Week of 9/13/10 @ AGSP

2010-09-17T13:14:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone,

Lots of speed development this week at Akron General Sports Performance, check it out!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Get to Know Your Coach: Nick Sanders

2010-09-16T11:47:00.009-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Athletes at AGSP get to work with the area's best sports performance coaches during their training sessions. Recently I did a Q&A with Coach Nick Sanders, check it out and get to know your coaches better!

Our athletes know you as Coach Nick Sanders, what does Coach Sanders like to do outside of making athletes better?
Outside of coaching I like to stay as active as possible. I enjoy playing basketball, slow pitch softball, volleyball, and occasionally golf. I also like to stay competitive by challenging myself towards different physical goals. This year I trained for a sprint distance triathlon in the spring, I have ran a couple 5K and 10K road races, and plan on running two half marathons in the fall. In addition to athletics, I love just about all types of fishing and hunting.
How did you get started working with athletes?
I got started working with athletes right out of high school. My first year after graduation, my high school football coach approached me with an opportunity to help coach the junior high football team. I have been involved with coaching every since. I really got into the strength and conditioning aspect of coaching around my Junior Year in college which was sparked into a true passion during my internship at AGMC with Coach Sowers.

Based on your experience, what is the one, biggest physical skill that today's athlete lacks? How do you address that need?
That’s a tough question. Right now if I had to pick one overall skill I would pick body awareness with overall mobility a close second. Body awareness, especially in the younger athlete, is something that without proper coaching, the athlete doesn’t think about. Without someone saying “Hey your knees are coming together when you jump and land” you are never aware of the problem to correct. I love how our program promotes that self awareness. The technical aspects of Olympic weight lifting and movement coaching forces the athlete to be aware of what every joint in their body is doing in space at a given time. I think that awareness alone improves sports performance.
As I learn more and more about movement impairments I am beginning to realize how big of an issue a lack of mobility can be in today’s athletes. Athletes are often not taught to move well, which leads to tight and weak muscles that limit performance. Identification and correction of these mobility impairments is becoming a huge part of today’s strength and conditioning field. I think the growth of this area is reflective of the commonality of these problems.
You are also active in the field of Physical Therapy, how has PT helped you become a better Sports Performance Coach and vice versa?
I feel that going through PT school while coaching has made me a better coach. As a PT student you gain a great deal of knowledge about how the body moves and functions. This knowledge is invaluable when working with athletes. It has been a great advantage in understanding mobility issues. It has also helped me in the area of injury prevention and to gain an appreciation of what an injured athlete must go through to prepare to return to sport.
I hope that my experience as a Sports Performance Coach will make me a better PT as well. PT is essentially a coaching/teaching job. Being active in the field I get to interact with people and put my knowledge and skills to the test every time I coach. I have learned a tremendous amount about strength and mobility exercises. Every time that I coach I feel I learn something about how to better teach or modify an exercise.

What do you like most about working with athletes?
Watching them get better. Nothing beats when you watch someone struggle with a skill and then that light bulb clicks and they nail it. I love being a part of the excitement that comes with attainment of a hard earned goal.
What advice would you give today's athlete?
Take responsibility for your actions. You decide how hard you’re going to work, how much time you put in during the off season, how you act outside of sports, and what you do when no one is watching. These every day choices are your responsibility and impact your future in athletics and in life. Do your best to take advantage of the opportunities you are given and don’t blame others for your shortcomings. My coach once told me “You either get better or you get worse, you never stay the same.” I say do your best to get better every day.

Thanks Coach Sanders for your time, energy, and great coaching!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Week of 9/6/10 @ AGSP

2010-09-13T11:42:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Catch a glimpse of athletes getting faster, quicker, and better during the week of 9/6/10 @ AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Hudson High School Football TOUCHDOWN

2010-09-11T09:50:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Coach Narducci invited me onto the sidelines and I was able to catch this great TD run!

AGSP has worked with Hudson Football for a couple of years now and it was great to see the guys in action!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Can you move fast backwards???

2010-09-09T20:23:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Be a better athlete, move fast forward and BACKWARDS!

* and yes, there are a couple of "non-backwards" clips

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

AGSP Athletes in Action: Danny Dunn

2010-09-07T18:27:00.007-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Danny is one of AGSP's first and original athletes. He is also Stow High School's starting Left Tackle (closest lineman to the camera), here you will see him create great space and take his defender completely out of the play (literally, Danny pancakes him).

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

AGSP Athletes in Action: Joe Michalowicz

2010-09-02T20:16:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Here is video of AGSP athlete Joe Michalowicz (in the yellow socks). He spent 10 months at AGSP and came back as the fastest athlete in football pads. His new speed has moved him from lineman to running back! Check out this run for a first down! (sorry about the video toward the end, I got excited and moved the camera!)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Get STRONG!

2010-09-02T17:55:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!
AGSP athletes getting stronger! Check it out!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Baseball Performance Specialist

2010-08-31T17:43:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Overhead throwing athletes have unique demands with their sports. One of the unique demands is the repetitive nature of the overhead throwing athlete. This repetitive nature causes some unique adaptations in the body that can decrease performance and increase injury risk.

Overhead throwing athletes need to get to know Tristan Rodik. He is an expert in maximizing movement and improving athletes' performance, especially in the overhead throwing athlete. He has his Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science from The University of Akron, and numerous hours working with athletes to maximize their performance.

Here is a video of Tristan testing baseball athlete Nate Lundy for hip rotation (external and capsule). You will be surprised what "small" differences he finds that can have "BIG" implications on Nate's swing and throws.

If you are an overhead throwing athlete and want to improve your game, contact us today! Team testing options available!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Get Faster!

2010-08-27T15:18:00.003-04:00

AGSP Athletes getting faster this week...did you get faster in the last week of August?

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Quicker, more agile athletes!

2010-08-24T20:24:00.003-04:00

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #11) Carley Terry

2010-08-17T20:05:00.009-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 11th Athlete Spotlight is one of the most fun athletes I've ever had the privilege to train. She desires to learn more about how to be a better athlete and is willing to train hard to achieve her goals. She's encouraging to other athletes and has a great outlook on training. She "gets it", and by that I mean she enjoys the process involved in becoming a better athlete (not just game day). She stays in the moment and therefore has a lot of fun along the way towards her goals. It's time to meet...

Athlete Name: Carley Terry
Sport(s): Basketball
Position(s):Guard
School: Stow-Munroe Falls High School
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: April 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Cavaliers
Favorite Professional Athlete: Mo Williams
Favorite Lift: Hang Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Hanging out with my friends and family, studying, training/working out and practicing basketball.
What are your short-term goals? To get straight A's and play basketball at Stow High School for four years.
What are your long-term goals? To go to college, majoring in Sports Medicine and play basketball in college.
How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? I have become faster, stronger and more powerful as an athlete. My jump has become more powerful and increased in height. I have seen myself becoming stronger and gaining more confidence.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF CARLEY TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Are you ready for some Max Velocity?

2010-08-16T14:57:00.001-04:00

I got to hold an Olympic Gold Medal

2010-08-13T09:41:00.010-04:00

Hello Everyone,

This past Wednesday, August 11, at Akron General North, I got to hold an Olympic Gold Medal won by Shelia Taormina. She was the guest speaker kicking off Akron General's Multisport Festival season.

Shelia is the only woman to compete in three different sports in different Olympiads...something everyone told her couldn't be done.
"Break paradigms" Shelia encouraged the audience. "Don't falsely believe something that isn't true. Remember, people used to think the world was flat."
Dream big and enjoy the process your dreams and goals take you through. Be "process-oriented". Those days when dreams and goals are realized are amazing, but don't forget to find "joy in the process".
When I asked her how she was able to get up at 5:00am and jump in a cold pool nearly everyday in preparation for the Olympics while working a full-time job she said it was finding joy in the present moment and reminding herself that she was privileged to wake up and be able to go swim. "Everyday is a gift, don't waste it."

Shelia's advice is priceless for people preparing for the Akron General Multisport Triathlons and Duathlons September 18 & 19 put on by HFP Racing. Below is a photo of myself, Shannon of HFP Racing, Olympian Shelia Taormina, and photographer Daniel Smith. (Shannon is wearing Shelia's medal per her request)
If you are a multisport athlete (triathlete, duathlete, etc.) or thinking of becoming a multisport athlete you need to try a HFP Race! Fun, educational, and well-organized, HFP Races are always a great experience!

Keep Training! (and as Shelia recommends, find joy in the process!)
Coach Amanda Kephart

Practice what you Preach: Olympic Lifts

2010-08-02T15:15:00.006-04:00

Hello Everyone,

This past Saturday July 31st, Coach Duarte, Coach Millender, Coach Colarusso and myself had the opportunity to train at Columbus Weightlifting with Coach Mark Cannella.

Mark offered to help us improve our own lifting techniques along with learning better cues to get our athletes to improve their Olympic Lifts. As sports performance coaches, we train our athletes with the Olympic Lifts because they require: Strength, Power, Speed, Stability, Flexibility, Mobility, and Coordination. All of which are extremely important in today's sports.

Coach Mark Cannella
Power Snatch
Power Clean and Split Jerk
Power Clean with Ride to the Bottom
OLift discussion, to shrug or not to shrug
Notice how fast he explodes off the ground (it is much faster than the rest of us). How smoothly his body moves. This is what we'd like to develop in our athletes: SPEED STRENGTH. Training like this transfers well to the competition field (train fast to be fast, train strong to be strong, train speed strength to be the strongest and fastest!)

Coach Gabriel Duarte
Snatch
Clean and Jerk
Some things Coach Duarte is working on is moving through the lifts more fluidly and faster. You will notice that Coach Duarte is training for movement, not weight, he is a very strong athlete, but understands that strength is only one piece of the athletic puzzle. By training with lighter weights and focusing on his technique he is becoming a better athlete (which is the ultimate goal!).
Mark quote for Coach Duarte: "Move faster off the floor. Speed kills on both lifts. With the lower hip, the bar sweeps really nice."

Coach Anthony Colarusso
Snatch
Clean and Jerk
Coach Colarusso is working on faster speed off the floor and fine tuning his jerk. He tends to dip and drive, but not finish with the final dip.
Mark quote for Coach Colarusso: "Track your knees over your toes at the start of the lift. Drive your hips more into the weight during your 2nd pull. Keep your elbows lower on the jerk and stay back on the heels."

Coach Amanda Kephart
Snatch
Clean and Jerk
Overall speed is my biggest focus, especially off the floor. For the Snatch I need to finish with bone-on-bone and strengthen my core and posterior chain to allow myself to get taller on the catch. For the Clean and Jerk, my jerk is fine, my clean needs to finish with active arms pulling myself to bar. I tend to fall into the hole, I need to use my arms at the finish to continue to rise the bar and at the same time get myself under the bar.
Mark quote for me: "Faster off the floor on both lifts. Stretch the bar on the snatch at the finish. Pull to the bar with your fists/forearms in both pulls."

Thanks again to Mark Cannella (and Drew, thanks for the impressive lifts!) for having us down. Mark is a wealth of knowledge and I highly recommend you get to know him and Columbus Weightlifting!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #10) Joe Michalowicz

2010-07-19T17:10:00.011-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 10th Athlete Spotlight is very popular at AGSP. He always comes to AGSP ready to become a better athlete, respects the program, and is a great example for other athletes. He started the program learning the movements with little to no weight (like ALL of our athletes), but now he lifts as much as athletes twice his age. He's only in elementary school, but he's becoming a master of speed and strength. It's time to meet...

Athlete Name: Joe Michalowicz
Sport(s): Football
Position(s): Defensive Line, Offensive Line
School: Lincoln Elementary
Graduation Year: 2019
AGSP Athlete Since: October, 2009
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Jared Allen

Favorite Lift: Back Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Backpedal
When I am not training at AGSP, I am playing basketball and football and hanging out with friends.
What are your short-term goals? Play for the "B Team". Be one of the best players in the league. Sack the quarterback! Carry the ball!
What are your long-term goals? Keep getting stronger. Play high school football. Play for Ohio State. Play in the NFL!
How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? I am stronger, faster and more explosive. I am learning how to train and how to keep getting better!

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF JOE TRAINING AT AGSP!
Here he is hang cleaning 30 KG!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Hudson Football Camp 2010

2010-07-15T15:50:00.009-04:00

Hello Everyone,

I'd like to take a moment to share the great experience I had Wednesday July 14th at the 2010 Hudson Football Camp AKA The Narducci Camp.

Coach Narducci invited Akron General Sports Performance out to show the aspiring football players ways to improve their speed and performance. We worked with 6-9th graders, then with the 3-5the graders...talk about FUN!

Coach Narducci's Camp is an awesome blend of learning and games. He's able to make the campers better football players and Wednesday we helped them become faster athletes. I was so impressed with the Varsity Football Players that were helping the young campers and with all the neat take-homes Coach Narducci had for the campers. Everything from great information on how to be a better football player to oven mitts to t-shirts to certificates with campers' performance times!

Coach Nate sporting the 2010 Hudson Football Camp shirt.

It was an honor to participate in such a great camp. If you or the football player in your life didn't make it this year, you have to go to next year's Narducci Camp!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Practice what you preach

2010-07-05T12:45:00.007-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Talk the talk and walk the walk. A good coach/trainer should not only have the knowledge needed to serve his/her athletes, but should also live the lifestyle he/she preaches.

I am not an endurance runner, but I do preach overall fitness and being able to perform the 10 General Physical Skills:

Cardiovascular Endurance
Stamina
Strength
Flexibility
Power
Speed
Coordination
Accuracy
Agility
Balance

Today was a first for me, a 4 mile race, The Stow Firecracker Run. Training and practicing for the race taught me a lot about what many of my Adult Performance members go through when they prepare for an endurance event. Even though it was only 1/6 of a marathon, I feel that I am a better coach because I practiced what a preached...

2010 Stow Firecracker 4 mile Run
9 Adult Performance Members Participated
All completed the 4 miles in great times and for some it was the first race they've ever run

Before the run.
Myself, Dan, Ron, Eric, Juli, Keith, Jill, Dave, Kim

After the run, waiting for the moms to be :-)
Myself, Steve, Dan, Keith, Dave, Kim

Parents to be after the run/fast walk
Dave, Jill, Juli, Eric

Knowledge is gained through learner, Wisdom is gained through experience. Today wisdom was gained through a great experience with great people!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

* NOTE: Sport athletes (football, basketball, baseball, etc) should NOT run miles to prepare for their sports. The majority of sports are interval based events and should be trained accordingly. See Interval Training for Athletes for more information.

You don't get good at anything by accident

2010-06-29T22:03:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone,

When I ask an athlete, "What abilities do you need to improve to become a better athlete?". The responses are consistently,

I need to get faster
I need to get more physical
I need to jump higher
I need to get stronger
I need to become quicker on my feet
I need to be more flexible/mobile
I need to play better on defense (or offense or both!)
I need to be more explosive

And the list goes on.
Then I ask, "How are you going to get what you need? Who is going to teach you how to be ______? When are you going to practice ______? How are you going measure you development of _______?"
The answer is usually a blank stare or an "I don't know".

Plain and simple, YOU DON'T GET GOOD AT ANYTHING BY ACCIDENT. If you are the slowest athlete on your team you are not going to magically wake-up one morning and be faster. Just like you spend countless hours on your sport skills, such as learning your plays, practicing your jump shot, improving your swing, fine-tuning your dribbling, etc. You need to make time to address your athletic skills (power, strength, speed, and agility).

If you truly desire to become a better athlete, you must practice your athletic skills.

AGSP athletes practice their power, strength, speed, agility, flexibility, mobility, and coordination every time they walk through the front door.

AGSP athletes learn how to become better athletes by learning better movement. The skills they learn here do not stay here, they are empowering and go wherever the athlete goes.

AGSP athletes are becoming more complete, turning weaknesses into strengths. Plain and simple AGSP athletes DON'T GET GOOD AT ANYTHING BY ACCIDENT, THEY ARE TRAINING WITH A PURPOSE.

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Introducing, LUNCH TIME EXPRESS WORKOUT!

2010-06-21T13:21:00.010-04:00

Akron General Sports Performance & Subway team up to bring you the

LUNCH-TIME EXPRESS WORKOUT!

You get unlimited access to the Adult Performance Program when you sign up. Members train for 30 minutes with Certified Sports Performance Coaches.

GET RESULTS!
Ø Lose weight and get lean!
Ø Improve your health and fitness!
Ø Gain speed, power and agility!
Ø Build muscle and strength!
Ø Improve your balance and reduce your risk for injury!
Ø Learn proper movement patterns that transfer to life, recreation, and sport!

Perfect for adults that desire to look better and be in the best shape of their life.

How it works
1) Monthly membership only $99! (see sports performance receptionists)
2) Members arrive 5 minutes before start of group and place Subway Sandwich Order
3) Members workout for 30 minutes with Adult Performance
4) After workout members go to Subway Checkout counter where their sandwich will be waiting
5) Membership includes Subway Sandwiches (regular size, 12/month max)
6) Members can choose any of “Jared’s Favorites”
o Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki
o Turkey Breast
o Turkey Breast & Black Forest Ham
o Black Forest Ham
o Over Roasted Chicken
o Veggie Delite

Adult Performance Start Times
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 12:00 PM & 12:30 PM
Tuesday, Thursday: 12:00 PM
· Must schedule with Adult Performance, please call 330-945-3150 or see the Physical Therapy/Sports Performance Receptionists. First workout is complimentary (no sandwich with free class).

Train right, Eat right in 30 minutes!

Athlete Spotlighting #9) Johnathan Gregory

2010-06-11T11:55:00.008-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 9th Athlete Spotlight is of one of AGSP's most well-rounded, most improved, and hardest working athletes. He started the program with an open-mind, a lot of heart, and poor movement patterns. With patience, consistency, and focus he has become a new and improved football player. This didn't happen overnight, this was a multi-month project that is sure to pay off big on the gridiron this fall. Before two-a-days hit it's time to meet....

Athlete Name: Johnathan Gregory
Sport(s): Football
Position(s): Defensive Tackle, Offensive Tackle
School: St. Vincent-St. Mary High School
Graduation Year: 2012
AGSP Athlete Since: January 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Jared Allen

Favorite Lift: Power Clean
Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity
When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Lifting with my brother or recovering to train the next day.
What are your short-term goals? Increase mobility and improve strength.
What are your long-term goals? Perfect all movements and reach full potential (weight) on all lifts .
How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? It has taught me to become more focused on details and correcting what I was doing wrong with my movements.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF JOHNATHAN TRAINING AT AGSP!
(yes I know it is not rotated correctly)

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #8: Amirra Hmidan & Courtney Kennedy

2010-06-03T09:35:00.019-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 8th Athlete Spotlight is of two teammates that are becoming better athletes together. By training together at AGSP these athletes from East Canton are developing strength, power, speed, and sometimes more importantly, team chemistry. Going through the athletic development journey together truly gives them an edge over the competition. Encouragement during tough exercises translates to encouragement when the game is on the line. Speed development at AGSP translates to faster athletes on the field. Be ready, these athletes have a bright athletic future. It's time to meet...

Athlete Name: Amirra Hmidan
Sport(s): Softball, Basketball, Cross Country

Position(s): Softball: Centerfield & 2nd Base. Basketball: Point Guard.
School: East Canton Middle School
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: March 2010

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Cavaliers & Akron Racers Favorite Professional Athlete: Crystal Bustos

Favorite Lift: Back Squat, because that is the lift I can lift the most in.

Favorite Movement Skill: Max Velocity, because it is the most challenging for me. I like how hard I have to work to perform well at Max Velocity.

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Practicing softball, either working on my fielding skills or my slapping, push bunting, and hitting off the left side.

What are your short-term goals? To make the Varsity softball team next year as a freshman.
What are your long-term goals? I want to make it to a Division One College, with the University of Akron being my dream.
How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? AGSP has made me faster, I can feel the difference when I run around the bases. Also, I've learned to push myself harder than ever because of the different tasks we do.

Athlete Name: Courtney Kennedy
Sport(s): Softball
Position(s): Pitcher, Outfield, 2nd Base School: East Canton Middle School Graduation Year: 2014

AGSP Athlete Since: March 2010
Favorite Professional Sports Team: Chicago Bandits
Favorite Professional Athlete: Jennie Finch

Favorite Lift: Back Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Acceleration

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Practicing softball
What are your short-term goals? To make the Varsity softball team next year as a freshman.
What are your long-term goals? To go to a Division 1 College and play softball.
How has AGSP impacted you performance as an athlete? It has made me a better athlete and it has also made me faster and stronger.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF AMIRRA & COURTNEY TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

USAW Weightlifting Course huge hit at AGSP!

2010-05-17T09:35:00.006-04:00

Hello Everyone!

This past weekend's USAW Weightlifting Level 1 Course was a great success. Special thanks to Mark Cannella, Holly, Dan, Mike, and Bob for their willingness and expertise in teaching the Olympic Lifts.

We had a great group; everyone desired to become better at the Olympic Lifts in all aspects, understanding, coaching, execution, application, etc.

Some of the biggest takeaways for me were:

"Bone on bone"
Do not jump shrug, because the shrug actually slows you down and makes you less efficient
"Pop, Pop" the bar should literally hit off the high thigh as the hip comes back through
Your squats and complimentary lifts should be just that, complimentary to speed! Speed is king and if you teach slow squats you are teaching your athletes to be slow. "Down with control, up with power"

There were many other great cues and concepts taught and I'm hoping other attendees will make comments to this post with some of their big takeaways and ah-ha moments (I'll approve the replies).

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athletes: GET STRONG!

2010-04-13T09:32:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

My mentor and friend, Coach Ray Eady, currently with The University of Wisconsin, wrote this great article about female athletes (in this case, basketball) and their need to get stronger in order for them to be the best athletes they can be.

Want to know how some of the nation's top female athletes are training? Read this special blog post. Want to train like them in Akron, Ohio? Come to Akron General Sports Performance.

“FEMALE BASKETBALL PLAYERS NEED TO GET STRONG”

Ray Eady, M.Ed, CSCS, PES
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Women’s Basketball
University of Wisconsin

It’s simple, female basketball players need to get strong!

It’s not uncommon to hear the following from players after a long competitive season, “Coach, what can I do to...”

1.Jump higher?
2.Improve my jump shot?
3.Play better defense? (defensive stance)
4.Run faster?
5.Move quicker?
6.Etc., Etc., Etc.

My response is usually, “Get stronger!”

Likewise, coaches often approach me stating, “We need to..?

1.Get more athletic!
2.Play better defense! (defensive stance)
3.Run faster!
4.Move quicker!
5.Get in better condition!
6.Etc., Etc., Etc.

My response is usually, “Coach, let’s continue to get stronger!”

Let’s be honest, today’s athletes are consistently looking for a quick fix. Most want to get better at playing their sport but very few are willing to do the things that can really improve their game. When a player asks me what they can do to improve their athleticism, I simply tell them to get stronger. Of course, a well-designed training program is going to include soft tissue work, mobility work, core work, speed work, plyometrics, explosive training, corrective exercises, and other forms of training to enhance athleticism. However, for the purpose of this article, I want to talk about the importance of building pure strength.

I work with the women’s basketball team at the University of Wisconsin and every off-season my goal is to get our team stronger than the previous year. Why? Because if there is one physical attribute that a female basketball player needs more than any other it’s strength. On the other hand, I am still amazed that some basketball coaches continue to underestimate the importance of strength.

I was talking with a strength coach who was frustrated at his head coach because she wants her players to run during the post-season. The reason; “We need to get in better condition”. I do not profess to have all the answers but why do players need to be in “basketball” shape in April, May or June for that matter? Official basketball practice does not start until mid-October. I’ll be honest; I am not a fan of players running or conditioning in the post-season. I believe the post-season is a time to heal from the long competitive season and for preparing your athletes for off-season training. The last thing basketball players need in the off-season is pre-season style conditioning. However, basketball players do need lots of strength work and this especially holds true for female athletes.

The myths surrounding females and strength training are quite disturbing and in some cases have negatively impacted our ability to train women despite the tremendous amount of research on the topic. These myths include:

1.Women can’t get strong
2.Strength training will make women look bulky and masculine
3.Women should avoid high-intensity training or high-load training
4.Women should train differently than men
5.Women only need to do cardio and if they decide to lift weights, they should be very light.

As strength and conditioning professionals, it is imperative that we educate our coaches and athletes on the benefits of strength training, particularly when dealing with female athletes. This is extremely important when we are introduced to new recruits (freshmen) with limited strength training experiences.

Some people will argue what exactly is strength? Is a female capable of performing a 20-rep squat at 60 percent of their one-rep max a form of strength? Or is a female capable of squatting 1.5 times her bodyweight a form of strength? I would say both scenarios are examples of strength (strength endurance versus maximal strength).

However, the basis of this article is to discuss maximal strength development of which female athletes don’t do enough of. Now don’t get me wrong, I understand the importance of movement and function and I don’t see the world through the hole of a 45-pound plate (a great article posted previously on this blog). However, it’s okay to challenge and encourage your female players to lift heavier weights during a training session to develop the strength needed to effectively compete in their sport.

As quoted by Lou Schuler in his book entitled The New Rules of Lifting for Women, “results come from hard work and hard work occasionally includes lifting heavier weights.” Basically, it’s alright for females (if capable and taught proficiently) to squat heavy, deadlift heavy, perform chin-ups/pull-ups, perform sled work, perform kettlebell work and the list goes on!

So what are the benefits for getting strong? (I am sure this comes to no surprise for those reading this article.) First and foremost, we all know that female athletes are more prone to sport-related injuries when compared to male athletes. Therefore, the stronger females can become, the less likely they will get injured. Second, strength is the foundation for improving movement efficiency, central nervous system efficiency, balance, coordination, stability, power, speed, elasticity, acceleration, deceleration, quickness, reaction, and conditioning.

Basically, strength is one of the catalysts for enhancing athleticism. Athleticism is the catalyst for providing a solid foundation for developing a skill. Therefore, if you want to improve your ability to post up a defender – get strong; if you want to improve your rebounding capabilities - get strong; if you want to improve your ability to play man-to-man defense – get strong; if you want to improve your ability to absorb contact when driving to the basket – get strong; if you want to set hard screens or get through screens – get strong, if you want to improve your jump shot - get strong! I think you get the point!

Third, all basketball players need to play at an optimal weight/body composition regardless of position. Researchers found that unlike men, women typically don't gain size from strength training, because compared to men; women have 10 to 30 times less of the hormones that cause muscle hypertrophy. So, lifting heavier weights will develop functional strength without the expense of adding unwanted size.

I believe there is also a psychological benefit for females when developing strength. When a female athlete becomes stronger, they become more confident and their self-esteem soars through the roof. Confidence translates into toughness. Toughness is an attribute that is needed to win games. Why, because you need toughness to play defense, to dive on the floor for loose balls, to make free throws, to run your offensive sets, to erase a ten point deficit or to maintain a 10-point lead.

Within a team environment, getting stronger can foster team unity and enhance team toughness simply by having players push themselves (and each other) in the weight room. Make no mistake, female athletes want to be challenged and in most cases; in the same manner as a male athlete. They want to train in an intense and competitive environment and some relish the experience.

At the University of Wisconsin, I am not ashamed to admit that are women’s basketball team was not the most talented team in the Big Ten this year when compared to programs such as Ohio State, Michigan State, and the University of Iowa. However, we qualified for the 2010 NCAA tournament for the first time in 9 years despite being picked 10th in the pre-season conference polls. I would like to assume that are dedication to getting strong in the off-season was one of the factors that helped us achieved success.

Lastly, studies have shown that strength training (strength work) reduced depression symptoms and anxiety levels more successfully than standard counseling sessions. Newly released studies show that after a strength training session, endorphin levels (feel good hormones) are increased by more than 60 percent leaving you feeling rejuvenated and even euphoric, keeping your mind trouble-free.

Mentally, players have to prepare for a long season which can be quite stressful. Players are under extreme stress because of classes, study sessions, and practices. Games are normally played on Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays and during winter break sessions. Social activities with friends and family are at a minimal. If you ever been to Madison, Wisconsin the cold weather and snow can sometimes make life miserable. Let’s not forget, losing streaks are stressful as well. Stress can make or break a season! Weight training can be quite therapeutic.

So remember, if you want your female players to be athletic, lean, competitive, self-confident, tough and stress free; lift some heavy stuff once in awhile!

I want to thank Coach Ray Eady for continuing to share his knowledge and passion for athletes. Remember, everyday at AGSP, all of our athletes are "GETTING STRONG"!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Meet Coach Amanda this Weekend!

2010-04-05T17:35:00.010-04:00

Hello Everyone!

I, Coach Amanda, will be at two great events this weekend. Come meet me, ask me questions, and pick my brain.

EVENT #1

Grunt Girl Racing invites you, and your friends to join us for "a little more than just your typical training run!"

Saturday, April 10: Improve your pre and post run preparation as well as nutrition and hydration with tips from certified coaches and professionals.

Where: Meet at Vertical Runner (store front) in Hudson at no later than 8 a.m. Andrea Chisnell and Stacy Rhea will lead the run.

Who/What: Coach Amanda Kephart from Akron General Sports Performance will lead the group in a dynamic warm-up, prior to the run (8 - 8:15 a.m., and 15-minute cool-down after a one-hour training run. Maps will be distributed prior to the run - no one is left behind.

Why: After the cool down, enjoy bagels and refreshments, courtesy of GGR at Vertical Runner, while Vince Rucci, owner of VR (endurance runner and coach), and Mel Liebling, Ironwoman, endurance runner discuss fueling strategies, hydration, recovery, race taper and heart rate zones.

This is a great opportunity to begin your season on the right foot, with the right training advice from local professionals and store packages and discounts to point you in the right direction.

EVENT #2

Nearly 200 exhibitors will greet visitors to the Stow-Munroe Falls Community Showcase set for April 10-11 at the Stow-Munroe Falls High School, 3227 E. Graham Road, Stow.

One of the area's largest promotional business shows, it is sponsored by the cities of Stow and Munroe Falls, the Stow-Munroe Falls School District and the Stow-Munroe Falls Chamber of Commerce.

The hours of the showcase are:

April 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

April 11, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I will be at the Stow Showcase in the morning hours. SEE you this weekend!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #7: Jeff Borkey

2010-03-22T11:11:00.014-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Our 7th Athlete Spotlight is pound for pound one of the strongest, smartest, and fastest learning athletes to train at AGSP. He is a great example of what it means to not only desire to be your best, but to also work hard to be your best. He pays as much attention to the details as he does the big picture and that is why he was an easy choice for our next Athlete Spotlight...

Athlete Name: Jeff Borkey
Sport(s): Football
Position(s): Cornerback/Safety
School: Walsh Jesuit High School
Graduation Year: 2010
AGSP Athlete Since: 2010

Favorite Professional Sports Team: Cleveland Browns
Favorite Professional Athlete: Bob Sanders

Favorite Life: Bench Press

Favorite Movement Skill: Backpedal and Acceleration

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Lifting with my Dad or playing video games with my friends.

What are your short-term goals? To get better everyday.

What are your long-term goals? To be able to perform to the best of my ability daily.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has brought up my power movement, strength, and my speed & agility.

Check Out Some Video of Jeff Borkey Training at AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

Athlete Spotlighting #6: Tyler Majoros

2010-03-05T09:11:00.012-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Our next athlete spotlight is an incredible journey. When this athlete first starting sports performance training he couldn't even touch his toes and couldn't squat to parallel. Now his muscles are long (a long muscle is a strong muscle) and he deep squats more than his bodyweight for reps.

This athlete has gone from good to great, and is on his way to being excellent. It's time you meet this athlete on his journey...

Athlete Name: Tyler Majoros
Sport(s): Baseball and Basketball
Position(s): Outfield, Guard
School: St. Barnabas School
Graduation Year: 2014
AGSP Athlete Since: August 2009

Favorite Professional Sports Team: New York Yankees
Favorite Professional Athlete: Alex Rodriguez

Favorite Life: Back Squat and Front Squat
Favorite Movement Skill: Hockey Stop and Max Velocity Treadmill

When I am not training at AGSP, I am: Playing video games, hanging out with friends, doing homework, practicing baseball and basketball.

What are your short-term goals? To get straight A's in school and play high school baseball.

What are your long-term goals? I would love to play baseball in college and study Forensic Science.

How has AGSP impacted your performance as an athlete? It has increased my speed, agility, and flexibility. I feel more confident and prepared during competition.

CHECK OUT SOME VIDEO OF TYLER MAJOROS TRAINING AT AGSP!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart

March 4 Ladies Night: Fitness from the Inside Out

2010-02-25T15:14:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

I will be attending the end of

Ladies Night: Fitness from the Inside Out
March 4, 6: 30 – 9 p.m.
Jake’s Good Life 41 Village Way, Hudson, Ohio

I will be arriving at 8:30 PM (I will have just finished an Adult Performance Class) and will take willing participants through an active-dynamic warm-up that is designed to 1) increase performance and 2) decrease injury risk. I will also be available for any questions about our programs, both adult and athlete.

I look forward to seeing you at this great local event!

Keep Training!
Coach Amanda Kephart