Have you ever asked yourself- Why am I here, what’s my purpose? Each one of us is capable of accomplishing anything we set out to. We have innate ability within us and a history of demonstrated success. Getting where we want to go is always a little easier with some knowledge and direction from those with subject matter expertise.
...Introducing Project Hero’s Coaches’ Corner.
Starting next month, Coaches’ Corner will be Project Hero’s go-to spot for knowledge, insight, tips, and guidance for all forms of cycling, nutrition and health education, and mental skills.
Check out this column each month to put more tools in your toolbox.
Mike King
Mike found his passion for cycling while attending Virginia Commonwealth University. Beginning as a mountain biker, he quickly rose through the ranks and expanded intot road and cyclocross. Mike has seen the benefits of competitive cycling and has used his experience to inspire other cyclist for the last 12 years.
With a background in physical education, anatomy, physiology and a Master’s Degree in Health Sciences, Mike specializes in implementing health behavior initiatives. These initiatives are designed to improve overall health and wellness through the creation and delivery of educational programs, building support networks and aligning resources designed for the specific needs of the groups and individuals with whom he is working.
With real-life experiences and educational background, Mike knows the importance of a comprehensive behavior change plan that includes support, education and resources.
Tommy Muir
Upon graduating from Illinois State University, Tommy spent six and a half years serving as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, holding numerous leadership positions and doing multiple combat deployments.
Upon leaving the service, he was involved with several nonprofits, including working for Ride 2 Recovery, helping service members and veterans recover through cycling and triathlon. This work led him to pursue further education, and he earned a Master of Arts in sport psychology.
As a Mental Skills Coach for Project Hero, Tommy helps illuminate the values mindset training brings to our personal, professional and athletic pursuits.
Don Jackson
I am super stoked to be part of a great team of professionals with a common desire to serve. My philosophy is REVIVE (invigorate through challenging training), REFOCUS (propel to achieve) and DEPLOY (competition on the friendly fields of strife).
I started racing BMX at the age of 7, then graduated to XTERRA races, triathlons and MTB mostly utilizing my road bike as a means of transportation and to augment my off-road training.
I was a Level II USAC coach from 2012 to 2017, Coach/Team Director Army West Point Cycling Team, 2017 Collegiate Club National Champions. I left the Military Academy after 7 years, and family became my primary focus. For 31 years I was enlisted in the USAR Army; I have a Master’s Degree in Education/Teaching; I am the Basic Racing Program (BRP) Director of the Southeastern Collegiate Cycling Conference (SECCC). My additional certifications/education include cognitive and physical disabilities, performance and sports psychology and resiliency skills coaching.
As a closing final thought: DNS- The only result in the cycling world that matters is that we all have to start somewhere.
