Athlete Spotlight #29) Nick DeLeone

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

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

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!!!

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

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!

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!

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!

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?

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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