Welcome to our in-depth blog post on the critical role of a High-Performance Manager in AFL. This post explores how these experts drive success by integrating advanced training methodologies, sports science, and strategic planning to optimize team performance. Discover the key responsibilities of a High-Performance Manager, including developing comprehensive training programs, managing player wellness, and utilizing data analytics to make informed decisions. Learn how they collaborate with coaches, medical staff, and athletes to create a cohesive and effective high-performance environment. Whether you’re aspiring to become a High-Performance Manager, a coach looking to understand the role better, or a fan interested in the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to on-field success, this post provides valuable insights into the strategies and practices that define high performance in AFL.
In this episode of the Prepare Like A Pro Podcast, I am speaking to one of our strength & conditioning coaches Ben Frith who is a strength and conditioning coach for the St Kilda AFLW team. Ben provided sound advice to young people studying to be S&Cs, explained some of the differences between training men and women, and revealed the one key skill that athletes should focus on if they want to make it to the big time.
Ben can be found on Instagram:
In the realm of Strength Conditioning Evolution Success, few names carry as much weight as Dan Baker, the current President of the Australian Strength Conditioning Association. With a career spanning over two decades, Dan’s journey from being the Strength and Power Coach for the Brisbane Broncos to his current role as a leading figure in the industry is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode of the Prepare Like A Pro Podcast, I am speaking to Daniel Baker, President of the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association, Strength and Power Coach for the Brisbane Broncos for 20 years, and has a Ph.D. Strength Conditioning Evolution Success is a powerhouse in the S&C world. Dan has been working in the field since the beginning. He spoke to Jack about training back before there were S&Cs and gave advice for older athletes who want to prolong their careers.
Dan can be found on Instagram: @danbakerstrength_
Dan discovered his passion for strength and conditioning at 15, a time when structured programs were rare. His early training involved unconventional yet challenging routines.
Dan’s narrative shifts to his early years of being his coach when the profession was virtually nonexistent. The post explores how Dan’s perspective on strength training evolved as he encountered mentors, including a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, and began lifting weights that seemed unfathomable at the time.
Dan’s exposure to powerlifting is explored, emphasizing the transformative effect of witnessing athletes lift monumental weights, pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible. This segment highlights the importance of role models and mentors in shaping an individual’s approach to strength training.
A turning point in Dan’s career came with the growth of strength coaching in elite sports. The post explores the era when teams started investing in dedicated strength coaches, leading to a professionalization of the field. Dan shares insights into how this shift paved the way for the Australian Strength Conditioning Association and its subsequent success.
Dan’s legacy lies in his work with young athletes. The post highlights his emphasis on early movement competency in children, underlining the importance of proper form before introducing loaded exercises. Dan’s philosophy is explored, emphasizing the long-term impact a good coach can have on a young athlete’s trajectory.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn as Dan shares his experiences training during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stranded in Bali due to travel restrictions, Dan reflects on the challenges and adaptations in his training routine. This segment adds a contemporary touch to the story, showcasing how even industry veterans navigate unforeseen challenges.
As the post concludes, it explores Dan’s views on the future of strength and conditioning. With the landscape shifting due to the pandemic, Dan provides insights into the changes in course delivery for strength coaches. The narrative touches on the potential of online courses and the resilience of the strength and conditioning community.
The post wraps up with key takeaways from Dan Baker’s journey, emphasizing the evolution of the strength and conditioning profession, the importance of mentorship, and the enduring impact a dedicated coach can have on athletes.
In this episode of the Prepare Like A Pro Podcast I am speaking to Tim Gabbett has 25 years of experience working as an applied sports scientist for professional athletes from a range of sports. In this episode, Jack and Tim talk about Tim’s early days following his dad around while he trained athletes and the lessons that he learned from observing. Tim gives advice for how younger athletes can read their bodies better, how older athletes can prolong their careers, and the complexities of applying ACWR theory to athletes with chronic pathologies.
Tim can be found on Instagram: @gabbetttim
In Episode 18 of the Prepare Like A Pro Podcast, I speak with Harry Simington
Harry is is a former semi-professional Australian Rules Footballer who last played for The Gold Coast Suns in the NEAFL. He is currently a strength and conditioning coach for one-on-one football.
Connect with Harry
Book a session with Harry
https://www.oneononefootball.com.au/
Connect with Harry
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harry_simington/
Mackers is currently the Head of High Performance at Port Adelaide FC where he leads an impressive group of sports medicine, sports science, and strength and conditioning professionals. Ian is now heading into his 9th season within the AFL at Port Adelaide having previously worked as the Head of Athletic Development.
Originally from Northern Ireland where he worked as a strength and conditioning coach for the Sports Institute for Northern Ireland, he headed to Australia in 2009 to coach at the Australian Institute of Sport and to complete his Ph.D. on power development and movement ability in junior athletes.
Connect with Ian
Instagram:Â www.instagram.com/ian.mackers/
David is Elite Level Strength and Conditioning coach from Brisbane Australia. He is currently employed as strength & conditioning coach at Melbourne football where he manages the Strength & Power program.
Definitely check this chat out we dive into some topics any football fan, footballer or staff member needs to hear.
Connect with Dave
Instagram:Â www.instagram.com/davewattsau/
Mark is a movement & rehabilitation specialist for over 15 years Mark has been experimenting with an optimal approach to freedom in movement by understanding the forces acting on the body, coupled with the investigation of the body from within.
The above investigation has unveiled a view of the body and optimal functioning that has come from sitting with the understanding that the body is one functional unit. Movement is whole.
He has worked with a wide variety of elite athletes such as: Chris Judd, Tom Mitchell, Max Bailey, Dylan Shiel & Luke Hodge.
We discuss his journey from start to now, the importance of curiosity for elite athletes and why quality movement is so important.
Episode 102 – My AFL Season 2024 Draft Top 6 Tips
#295 – Is running everyday bad for footballers?
Episode 233 – Jacob van Rooyen
#178 – Break Into Elite Sport: Career Advice for Students
#376 – The Future of Sport Science and AI with Billy Hulin, Nick Murray, Tim Newans & Rich Johnston
#375 – Jesse Green on How 1080 Sprint Is Changing Athlete Development
#278 – Understanding decision-making by Head Coaches and High-Performance Managers in the NRL
#276 – Strategies for an Integrated Strength & Conditioning program focused on Transference!
#274 – Mindful Coaching: How Nepal and Buddhism Influenced James Tatham’s Approach
Episode 228 – Actionable Tips to Achieve Peak Performance!
Episode 223 – Matt McGregor
Episode 213 – Jacqui Louder
#360 – Kieren Morgan on Parra Perform Shaping Elite Care with the Wider Game
#315 – Beyond the Field – ACL Prevention in Elite Football
#260 – How to Design a Strength & Power Program for your Sport
