2026 NHSSCA Tennessee State Clinic

8:30-9:00 am – CHECK-IN/REGISTRATION

9:00-9:10 am – WELCOME
Overview of Day’s Activities & Presentations

9:10-9:55 am – LECTURE
Hands-on Look at VBT by Michael Fahey

OVERVIEW: Join Michael for a hands-on, practical demonstration of how to effectively implement Velocity-Based Training (VBT) in a school-based strength and conditioning setting. This session is designed to meet coaches where they are — whether you’re new to VBT or an experienced coach looking to refine your approach.

Michael will break down real-world applications, common mistakes, and best practices, while sharing actionable strategies you can immediately apply with your athletes. Coaches will leave with a clear understanding of how to use VBT to drive performance, enhance intent, and train with purpose and precision.

10:05-10:50 am – LECTURE
Speed-Supported Strength by Cody Hughes

OVERVIEW: Speed-Supported Strength explores how velocity, intent, and intelligent loading can elevate traditional strength training. This presentation breaks down how bar speed and movement velocity can be used to support maximal strength development.

Attendees will learn how to sequence speed and strength work, select appropriate exercises, and manage fatigue while maintaining high output. Cody provides practical, coach-ready strategies for integrating speed principles into daily programming—helping athletes move faster, lift stronger, and transfer strength more effectively to sport performance.

11:00-11:45 pm – HANDS-ON (NO SLIDES)
Max Velocity Without the Runway by Alex Gibson

OVERVIEW: Max Velocity Without the Runway is a hands-on coaching session designed for coaches who want to develop elite top-end speed in space-restricted environments.

This session focuses on training max-velocity qualities with limited space. Through live demonstrations, coach-led drills, and practical progressions, attendees will learn how to create speed-specific adaptations indoors or on short surfaces.

Coaches will leave with adaptable methods that transfer seamlessly to the weight room, small turf areas, and everyday training environments—allowing them to train speed effectively, regardless of space constraints.

11:55 am-12:45 pm – LECTURE
From Weight Room to Boardroom: Career Advancement for Strength Coaches by Fred Eaves

OVERVIEW: This session provides a practical roadmap for strength coaches who want to grow into leadership roles beyond the weight room. Drawing from a career path that progressed from strength coach to athletic director to senior administrator and head of school, the presentation outlines how coaches can expand their impact while maintaining their coaching identity.

Topics include building trust with key stakeholders, strengthening leadership competencies, and positioning yourself for opportunities within athletic departments, operations, and school-wide administration. Attendees will leave with clear, actionable next steps to increase influence, enhance professional visibility, and pursue long-term career mobility without stepping away from coaching.

12:45-1:00 pm – CLOSING REMARKS
Sweep the Shed