1 Splash:2-Media Info.qxp.qxd - University of Kentucky Athletics
1 Splash:2-Media Info.qxp.qxd - University of Kentucky Athletics
1 Splash:2-Media Info.qxp.qxd - University of Kentucky Athletics
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
Strength & Conditioning<br />
Emphasizing First-Class Development<br />
The <strong>Kentucky</strong> volleyball team calls the new Joe Craft Center<br />
weight room its home for strength and conditioning. The Wildcats<br />
work out under the direction <strong>of</strong> Coach Stephanie Tracey-Simmons,<br />
using a variety <strong>of</strong> free weight equipment which complements<br />
the training philosophy she has set.<br />
"Our top goal is to create a comprehensive training program, which<br />
encompasses the areas <strong>of</strong> speed, power, strength, agility, flexibility, balance<br />
and nutrition," Tracey-Simmons said. "Through these avenues, we are<br />
providing the athletes with the tools they need to reach their athletic potential<br />
while remaining injury-free."<br />
The primary focus <strong>of</strong> the facility is the development <strong>of</strong> core strength<br />
using ground-based, multi-joint lifting through use <strong>of</strong> the Olympic lifts.<br />
By incorporating this explosive style <strong>of</strong> lifting, athletes become more powerful,<br />
resulting in an increase in speed. The core <strong>of</strong> the athlete's body also<br />
is trained and complemented with a variety <strong>of</strong> lifts, including squats,<br />
lunges, plyometrics, presses, pulls, trunk rotation and abdominal exercise.<br />
Through the combination <strong>of</strong> these exercises, the athletes are better able to<br />
reach their goals.<br />
Another major focus <strong>of</strong> the strength staff is the development <strong>of</strong> sportspecific<br />
speed, agility and conditioning. This facet <strong>of</strong> training is organized<br />
through different types <strong>of</strong> footwork patterns, drills and linear fitness. Student-athletes<br />
also take part in "Speed School," a twice-weekly seven-week<br />
training session in Nutter Field House.<br />
With the help <strong>of</strong> staff nutritionist Jill Kindy, the strength and<br />
conditioning staff also helps educate the athletes on nutrition and<br />
supplement awareness.<br />
Every squad trains together, promoting team chemistry and teamwork.<br />
Through this set-up, teams work on mental toughness, attacking<br />
goals and maintaining a positive attitude, keeping everyone moving toward<br />
a common goal.<br />
"Stephanie is one <strong>of</strong> the premier strength coaches in the country. She understands<br />
what it takes to be an elite athlete and pushes our players each day to reach their<br />
potential. The UK volleyball program is in good hands with Coach Tracey."<br />
-UK Head Coach Craig Skinner<br />
12 T h i s i s U K Vo l l e y b a l l