Averett is coming off a summer of turnover, particularly in the athletic department. However, these staff changes have created opportunities for promotions and advancement. One notable shift is in the sports performance department, where Head Coach Tyler Smith has stepped into a new role this year.
With all the changes, Smith has had much to adapt to.
“The biggest challenge has been catching up,” he said.
As a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army Reserves, Smith was on drill at the beginning of the semester. Despite not being on campus for the start of the school year, he was well-prepared by his predecessor, allowing for a smoother transition into his role.
Smith aims to change the stereotype surrounding performance training for college athletes.
“My biggest focus is producing fully balanced and well-rounded athletes from a sports performance standpoint,” he said.
While weight and strength training are essential, they are not the only areas athletes need to develop.
“It has been fun and exciting to grow students’ knowledge of speed, agility, and conditioning,” Smith remarked.
Using GPS trackers in vests worn during practices, data is collected and analyzed. This information helps Smith and the sports performance staff create better plans to ensure their teams are optimally conditioned.
Building on the emphasis on holistic athlete development, Smith seeks to produce well-rounded athletes in both strength and explosiveness.
“One thing I want to do is get everyone to test RSI,” he said.
These tests will provide insights into each athlete’s specific areas for improvement, enabling coaches to develop personalized training plans.
Smith’s military background offers valuable benefits for Averett.
“My experience has helped me adapt to different groups of people and has given me exposure to dynamics similar to those in athletics,” he said.
Averett boasts a diverse group of student-athletes and coaches, whose collective experiences will help achieve the goals set by the sports performance coaches.
Despite the changes Averett has faced, many have led to positive opportunities, such as Smith’s promotion.