From Passion to Profession: A Journey in Strength and Conditioning
At the tender age of 14 or 15, a young individual stumbled upon a sanctuary that would shape their life’s trajectory – the gym. Amidst the turbulence of adolescence, the clanging of weights and the rhythm of exercise became a steadfast companion. Little did they know, this newfound passion, which marked the beginning of their Strength and Conditioning Journey, would evolve into a thriving profession.
Jordan Love is a Prepare Like A Pro strength & conditioning coach for Caulfield Grammarians FC (Women). He has also worked at Carlton VFLW and Geelong Falcons FC.
Highlights from the episode:
- How his passion for S&C started
- How he got into Geelong Falcons
- The importance of experience for a developing S&C coach
- What he learned from living with professional elite athletes
- How he made connections to his mentors
- Challenges in his career and what he learned
A Twist of Fate: Choosing Strength and Conditioning
Initially, influenced by family members entrenched in the medical field, the dream was to become a physiotherapist. However, by the age of 19, destiny unfurled a different path. The allure of strength and conditioning, with its blend of science and sweat, captured their heart.
Lessons from the Field: Early Experience Matters
The journey truly kicked off at Geelong Falcons, courtesy of a fortuitous connection. Three nights a week were dedicated to recovery sessions, laying the foundation for what would become a flourishing career. The speaker underscores the invaluable nature of gaining early exposure in the industry, regardless of the entry point.
Beyond Reps and Sets: The Power of Communication
In the realm of strength and conditioning, it’s not just about counting reps and sets. Communication reigns supreme. The speaker emphasizes the art of conveying knowledge, motivating athletes, and building trust. This skill, they believe, is a non-negotiable cornerstone, irrespective of one’s starting point in the field.
Living Amongst Elite Athletes: A Glimpse into Dedication
Imagine sharing living quarters with elite professional athletes. For our speaker, this is a reality. Names like James Walpole, Will Day, and Harrison Pepper are not just stars on a field, but everyday companions. Through this unique living arrangement, they gain intimate insights into the dedication, routines, and sacrifices that define an elite athlete.
Off-Season Wisdom: A Treasured Trove
While the spotlight often shines on game days, the off-season is where champions are forged. It was during this period that our speaker gleaned some of the most profound insights. The meticulous planning, the relentless training, and the unwavering discipline – these are the ingredients that set the elite apart.
The Road Ahead: Balancing Passion and Profession
As the journey continues, our speaker stands at the crossroads of passion and profession. The gym, once a refuge, is now also an office. The clanging weights symbolize not just personal growth, but the transformation of a fervent interest into a thriving career.
In conclusion, this journey from passion to profession in strength and conditioning is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of early experiences. It underscores the significance of effective communication and offers a rare glimpse into the world of elite athletes. As the road winds ahead, one thing remains clear – the fire that ignited this journey still burns bright.
In the fast-paced world of strength and conditioning, it’s crucial to stay connected with your passion while navigating the demands of a profession. Balancing the science of exercise with the art of motivation is an ongoing challenge, but one that our speaker has embraced wholeheartedly.
Remember, success in any field is a blend of dedication, skill, and a touch of fate. This journey is a testament to that truth and a source of inspiration for aspiring strength and conditioning professionals.
People mentioned:
- James Worpel
- Will Day
- Harrison Pepper
- Harrison Jones
- Dan Pfaff
- Luke Boyd
Jack McLean is the founder of Prepare Like a Pro. He loves coaching people so that they can reach their personal/professional goals and become the best that they can possibly be. He is currently the Strength & Rehab Coach of Melbourne Football Club and has worked as Strength & Conditioning Coach at Hawthorn Football Club. Jack is a Level 3 Australian Strength & Conditioning Association and Professional Coach and a Level 1 Australian Weightlifting Federation Coach.
