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McHenry Strength hosts Illinois Family Day conference

Strength and conditioning experts from throughout the state gathered at McHenry High School recently to learn from each other during a recent Illinois Family Day conference event for the National High School Strength and Conditioning Association.

More than 90 coaches from more than 70 schools visited the McHenry Strength facility Oct. 29 to hear from experts in the field, including Katie Guillory, assistant strength and conditioning coach with the University of Illinois, and Drew Potthoff, executive director with the Illinois Coaches Association.

Other presenters were Matt Gifford, director of OAW Sport Performance; Adam Vogel, Illinois director of NHSSCA and coach/educator at Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School; Tommy Christian, owner and founder of TCBOOST; and Kevin Benages, coach and educator from Naperville North High School.

Hosted and organized by Dr. John Beerbower, director of McHenry Strength at McHenry High School, the event was the first in-person gathering in quite a while.

"It really is good to be together," Beerbower said. "The whole concept is we're here to help each other."

The day included presentations, question-and-answer sessions, and roundtable discussions. Topics included supporting student athletes, improving speed and avoiding injuries.

Presenters and those in attendance said they appreciated the opportunity to gather and share information. McHenry Strength students helped host and demonstrate during presentations.

Chris Maxedon, Huntley High School teacher and coach of the boys track and field team, said he appreciates the opportunity to learn from other coaches. He's looking forward to putting the information to work when his sports season begins.

"All of us as educators are always looking for new ideas," Maxedon said.

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