Building stronger, safer athletes

Outlaws athletes are using their summer to get in top shape through the Outlaw Strong strength and conditioning program.

The program started Tuesday, July 5, and will continue through August 12. Athletes will utilize the six weeks of training to be stronger and more structurally sound as they head into the fall season.

Sisters High School (SHS) physical education/health teacher, Kevin Cotner, told The Nugget that the whole concept of Outlaw Strong was based on realizing that the culture of Outlaws athletes needed to be overhauled both during their season(s) and, more importantly, in the off-season.

Cotner said, "It was one of the first things that I noticed upon arriving in Sisters five years ago. There were no structured off-season strength and conditioning programs for our athletes. While attending a functional strength and conditioning clinic in Beaverton this past fall, and after much discussion with local coaches, I realized that there was a huge need and place for this in our schools, and felt that the functional movements were lacking within our system."

It's not just a matter of performance. Proper training helps minimize injuries.

"When you factor in that we have suffered nearly 25 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in the last five years at SHS, I realized that there were some major foundational/structural issues with our athletes that needed to be addressed," Cotner said.

Outlaw Strong's goal is to help develop the total athlete by training for maximum muscular strength, endurance, speed, agility, coordination and balance. It gives the athlete a functional training approach to develop, restore and maintain a balanced muscular and skeletal system.

Cotner said, "Your body is designed to move, but under the premise that it has all the tools needed to move correctly and efficiently. This program is designed to create an environment that forces the athlete to learn how to use all aspects of muscular movement with increased athletic reaction. It combines core power and strength in the weight room with functional and plyometric movements in the gym, sand, surrounding facilities, and designated Sisters area locations."

Cotner acknowledged that participants will work at an intensity level that is uncomfortable to most, but necessary to achieve maximum gains. The program is designed for the student athlete who is serious and focused about maximizing his or her athletic ability and functional strength.

Outlaw Strong's motto is 'Built in the Off Season' and Cotner also uses a personal favorite, "It's not where you are, but where you choose to go that matters."

Cotner stated, "So many kids are afraid to attempt something like this because of where they are currently physically. They have to convince themselves that it is OK to be where they are at, as long as they commit to make the necessary changes moving forward."

See the athletes in action Monday through Thursday, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Sisters High School. Mondays and Wednesdays, athletes are in the weight room and Tuesdays and Thursdays you'll find them on the back fields of the high school.

For more information contact Sisters Park & Recreation District at 541-549-2091 or Kevin Cotner at 541-771-2124.