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ABOUT
TESTIMONIALS
SHAPE - SHARPEN - TRANSFORM
THE IMPORTANCE OF LONG TERM ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT
Dr. Gene Coleman, Ed.D., RSCC*E, FACSM
In today’s “microwave society, too many athletes seek short-term success at the expense of long-term athletic development. Adaptation (improvement) takes time and doesn’t occur when developing bodies try to perform exercises that they are not physical or emotionally prepared for. The long-term athletic development model emphasizes gradual development of athleticism, skills, and knowledge. The key to successful performance is exposing developing minds and bodies to age-appropriate and developmental-appropriate exercises and drills at the right times. Introducing advanced movements and activities before young athletes are physically and mentally able to perform them is counter-productive and could increase the risk of injury. Likewise, failing to introduce a movement or activity during the optimal window of opportunity for development can delay development and might require remedial activities to allow young athletes to catch up to their peers and developmental age.
Adam Ross has extensive coaching experience with youth, collegiate, and professional athletes, teaching and administrative experience as Chair and Associate Professor in the Kinesiology at the Dallas Baptist University, and advanced certifications by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, US Association of Weight Lifting, and several other certification agencies. His academic and coaching experiences make him uniquely qualified to design, direct, and supervise effective long-term athletic development programs for athletes of all ages, performance levels, and sports.
Gene Coleman, Ed. D., RSCC*E, FACSM has over four decades as a head strength and conditioning coach (Houston Astros 1978-2012) and strength and conditioning consultant (Texas Rangers 2013-2020). He is Professor Emeritus in the Exercise and Health Sciences Program at the University of Houston – Clear Lake and Website Education Manager baseballstrength.org.
Caitlin Quinn
Senior Sport Science Analyist, Toyota Racing Development
Director of Toyota Performance Center
"For me, long-term athletic development has always been about building a foundation of knowledge and skills athletes can use long after their competition days have ended. By ensuring their understanding of both the goal of training and the process required, athletes learn how to invest in their own athletic development. Teaching age-appropriate lessons for body and mind that are engaging and informative is no small feat and yet something Adam Ross does naturally. His knack for building relationships and the patience required to create an effective safe space for LTAD is remarkable. There are few others I would trust to develop such a program. Some of my best memories from coaching at Florida State University involve talking shop and working through challenges with Adam Ross. Adam has a grounding presence ideal for foundational learning. He is one of those special coaches who put athlete well-being before results, ensuring athletes perform for years to come. "
-Caitlin Quinn,
Senior Sport Science Analyist, Toyota Racing Development
Director of Toyota Performance Center
"In order to lead others, one must learn to lead themselves. The sooner our youth learn what leading themselves looks like, they have a chance to create some positive momentum in their lives. I can not think of a better person to model and develop systems to help our youth athletes transform their minds and bodies for long term health than Adam Ross and his team at Forge Athletics and Recreation. With Adam Ross' experience with high level athletes to go along with his educational background, I believe he has the perfect combination to put together an organization to help today's youth become more confident and capable members of their community. I'm excited to see how this opportunity will help transform our youth while utilizing and emphasizing the LTAD model moving forward!"
-Rick McCarty,
Head Baseball Coach
Abilene Christian University
Rick McCarty
Head Baseball Coach
Abilene Christian University
Josh Hopper
Coordinator of Pitching Development,
Pittsburgh Pirates
"Adam Ross and Forge Athletics and Recreation provide a truly unique opportunity to the youth of Midlothian and the surrounding areas. I have known Adam for almost a decade, and very few come close to his commitment to being a life-long learner. For someone of his expertise to be this accessible for any athlete is a gift that should be taken advantage of. Adam is one of the brightest, most productive sports performance coaches I have ever had the privilege of working with in my 23 years in the game. There are a handful of facilities that can provide standard cookie cutter programming for strength, but few, if any, will bring the experience, knowledge, commitment, and individuality that Dr. Ross will bring. Not only will you be provided high level programming but because of his vast experience as an academic and lecturer in the field of kinesiology you can rest assured you are getting age-appropriate body adaptations for optimal growth and athleticism. The highest compliment I can give Adam is that this is a man that I would confidently trust my own children with in their athletic and moral development. "
-Josh Hopper,
Coordinator of Pitching Development, Pittsburgh Pirates
Jon Jost
Team Sports Manager,
Gatorade
Director of Strength and Conditioning, Florida State University (2001-2014)
Director of Strength and Conditioning, Southern Methodist University (1996-2001)
In the journey of life, some individuals stand out not just for their achievements, but for the profound impact they have on those around them. Adam Ross is one such individual, embarking on a new chapter as he launches Forge Athletics and Recreation dedicated to nurturing young athletes. This testament celebrates his integrity, expertise, and unwavering commitment to developing athletes not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally.
Adam Ross epitomizes integrity in every aspect of his life and work. His moral compass is steadfast, always pointing towards honesty, transparency, and fairness. Adam’s integrity is not just a trait; it’s a cornerstone upon which Forge Athletics and Recreation is built, ensuring long-lasting relationships and athletic development.
Adam’s expertise in the athletic development is second to none. With years of hands-on experience with the Houston Astros organization, Florida State University and Dallas Baptist University he possesses a wealth of knowledge that is both broad and nuanced. His ability to tailor programs that meet the unique needs of each athlete sets him apart. Whether it’s fine-tuning a training regimen or offering guidance on recovery strategies, Adam’s insights inspire confidence and foster excellence.
What truly sets Adam apart is his genuine desire to see young athletes thrive, not just on the field but in every aspect of their lives. He recognizes that true success is measured by the growth of the individual. Adam invests in his athletes, not just as clients, but as young people with dreams and aspirations. He mentors them through setbacks, celebrates their victories, and provides a safe space for them to explore their potential.
Adam Ross’s vision for Forge Athletics and Recreation extends beyond physical. He understands the importance of mental and emotional well-being in athletic development. His holistic approach ensures that athletes not only strengthen their bodies but also sharpen their minds and nurture their spirits. Through personalized coaching and mentorship, Adam empowers young athletes to become resilient, confident individuals who are equipped to face challenges both on and off the field.
Forge Athletics and Recreation is not just a new training facility; it is the launch pad of Adam’s mission to shape and nurture the potential of each young athlete he encounters. His journey is one of passion, purpose, and promise, a testament to the power of integrity, expertise, and heartfelt dedication.
- Jon Jost
Team Sports Manager, Gatorade
Director of Strength and Conditioning, Florida State University (2001-2014)
Director of Strength and Conditioning, Southern Methodist University (1996-2001)
Blaine Kinsley
Director of Strength and Conditioning,
Chicago Cubs
Adam's expertise in strength and conditioning is unparalleled. He possesses a deep understanding of the principles of athletic performance and applies this knowledge to develop comprehensive training programs tailored to the needs of each athlete.
Adam's innovative approach to training ensures that athletes are always engaged and challenged, leading to continuous improvement and peak performance.
Beyond his technical prowess, Adam excels in building strong relationships with athletes. His excellent communication skills and supportive demeanor create a positive environment where athletes feel empowered to push their limits and achieve their goals.
Adam's dedication to his athletes' well-being and development is evident in every aspect of his work.