In high school sports, strength training plays a pivotal role in preparing athletes for their respective seasons. This year, Coach AJ has stepped in to transform the training experience for student-athletes, particularly in how he tailors workouts to meet specific needs. Coach AJ elaborates on one of his key principles in training, saying, “I want each athlete to understand that their training should be as unique as their sport. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. We focus on what muscles are most engaged in their specific activities.”
Elsa Castro, a senior and basketball player, shares her experience with Coach AJ: “He knows what he’s talking about. He caters workouts specifically to your sport. For basketball, he’s helping us build strength so we can run quicker and shoot faster.”
When discussing his training methods, AJ emphasizes the importance of technique: “Proper form is essential to prevent injuries and ensure long-term success. I want my athletes to leave with the skills they need to continue training independently. It’s about empowering them for their future.”
During training, Elsa appreciates AJ’s encouraging nature, noting that “He’ll say things like, ‘You’re doing great, keep going!’ He really pumps us up.” She also highlights the efficiency of AJ’s training methods, mentioning the use of technology: “The small iPad interfaces on the machines help us know the agenda for the day. It makes everything quicker and more efficient.”
AJ agrees on the importance of communication and efficiency, stating, “Having clear agendas helps athletes focus on their goals. It’s all about maximizing their time and effort in the gym. We want them to walk away feeling accomplished.”
One of the standout differences Elsa sees between AJ and previous coaches is his emphasis on teamwork. “He fosters a connection between the guys and girls’ team. “We push each other, and that helps us get better together,” she explains.
Coach AJ reflects on this aspect, saying, “Building relationships between teams creates a supportive environment. When athletes encourage one another, it leads to a stronger program overall. We’re all in this together, and I want everyone to feel that.”
With his tailored training methods, encouraging demeanor, and focus on teamwork, Coach AJ has made a significant impact on the athletes he works with. As Elsa puts it, “I like him. He’s definitely making a difference in our training.”
