🎙️ Inside the Numbers — Powered by RockDaisy
Host @RonMcKeefery sits down with Zach Witherspoon, Director of Sports Science at University of Pittsburgh, to explore how data, communication, and culture drive elite performance — from GPS and VBT to return-to-play and athlete motivation.
If you enjoy this episode, share it on X, Instagram, or YouTube — and tag @RockDaisyAMS
💡 What you’ll learn (quick hits)
• From S&C to sports science: building skillsets by necessity
• Creating scalable systems across 19 Pitt sports
• Reports that stick — automate + communicate
• Leaderboards thatckDaisyAMS. drive intent and education
• In-season toolkit: GPS, VBT, force plates, NordBord
• Fast flag → recover → recheck workflows
• Biggest lesson: under-stressing leads to breakdowns
• Rehab focus: control → chaos continuum
⏱️ Episode highlights
00:26 — Zach’s background & career path
01:56 — How necessity led to sports science
02:52 — Building Pitt’s sports science model
05:24 — Communication & collaboration systems
09:14 — Athlete conversations that build trust
12:35 — Leaderboards for intent & feedback
14:19 — Turning GPS flags into recovery plans
18:21 — Lessons learned: stress athletes right
🎙️ Inside the Numbers — Powered by RockDaisyHost Ron Mckeefery sits down with Andy Ward (Fresno State) to break down a training-camp blueprint for sports science — live GPS tracking, force plates, VBT, color-coded dashboards, and the language that turns data into real decisions.If you enjoy this episode, share it on X, Instagram, and YouTube — and tag @RockDaisyAMS.💡 What you’ll learn (quick hits)• ACWR made simple — spot “hot” vs. “red” loads• Live GPS: 10% warn, 20% pull• Weekly 90% top-ups for hamstring health• CMJ + VBT = daily readiness checks• Coach-friendly language: “He’s getting hot”• Reverse-engineer camp loads from spring• Build value + coach/admin buy-in⏱️ Episode highlights00:55 — Andy’s background & role03:00 — Pillars: injury, performance, mindset04:42 — Live GPS: HSD, sprints, accels, load05:49 — ACWR basics (7-day vs 21-day, 1.5 threshold)06:58 — Position thresholds: 10% warn, 20% pull07:32 — Weekly 90% max-speed top-ups10:30 — Reverse-engineering camp from spring data16:41 — Readiness: CMJ checks + VBT auto-reg
Host Ron McKeefery sits down with long-time friend and pioneer Dr. Bryan Mann (Texas A&M) to unpack how sports science and technology have evolved from pen-and-paper to force plates, GPS, VBT, and AI-driven training.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to share it on X, Instagram, and YouTube, and tag us @RockDaisyAMS What you’ll learn (quick hits):• Tech → smarter training, not noise• Science first, gadgets second• Spot reliable vs. shaky devices• VBT, force plates, GPS—what matters• Simple tests, better decisions⏱️ Episode highlights:02:00 – From pen & paper to force plates04:30 – Why science must guide the tech06:45 – The evolution of VBT devices08:20 – Avoiding the “sports tech trap”09:00 – Testing batteries that actually matter09:45 – How to judge reliability & validity
Inside the Numbers, powered by RockDaisy, Coach Ron Mckeefery sits down with Tony Villani founder of XPE Sports and creator of the Shredmill. We dig into game speed vs. maxspeed, the big 3 metrics (broad jump, 5–10 fly, 20→10 fly), and how a “smart is better” approach turns data into on-field performance.
What You’ll Hear
• Game speed vs. max speed
• The Big 3: broad jump, 5–10 fly, 20→10 fly
• Predicting 40 times without running a 40
• Smart post-season testing that avoids injuries
• Force vs. form — and where the Shredmill fits
• Small tweaks to keep athletes fast in-season
• Simple metrics that drive athlete buy-in & competition
00:30 – Sports science proving early adopters right
02:00 – Game speed vs. max speed05:00 – Why elite players sometimes slow down
08:00 – Group-friendly metrics that predict performance
12:00 – Convincing athletes to “work less”
14:00 – Predicting 40 times from 20→10 fly
16:30 – The big 3: broad jump, 5–10 fly, 20→10 fly
18:00 – Where the Shredmill fits in programming
21:30 – Chasing “blink-of-an-eye” gains2
5:00 – Advice for young coaches: keep it simple
Maryland Football’s Coordinator of Sport Science Dustin Plankey joins host Ron McKeefery to break down how a data-first, athlete-centered approach actually works on the floor and on the field. From blending athletic training with S&C to simplifying GPS/force-plate chaos into a few actionable KPIs, Dustin shares how to earn athlete buy-in, shape practice loads, and turn numbers into better performance—and healthier players.
01:00 Why blend AT + S&C into “performance”04:00 Asking better questions in sport science06:30 NFL vs. college: buy-in & athlete choice11:00 Maryland’s Sport Science & Innovation Committee14:30 Cutting the noise: focusing on 5 KPIs18:00 Turning GPS/force plate data into action22:30 Adjusting training loads without cutting practice25:00 Worst-case modeling & density in conditioning33:00 Rapid-fire wrap-up: tools, overrated, underrated
02:00 Cody’s journey from college baseball to strength & conditioning coach
06:30 Building Madison Academy’s performance program & moving into admin
08:00 New role in Nashville at Farm and Forge Club with Brian Kula
11:30 Mentors and career-shaping lessons
15:00 Takeaways from hosting the podcast & learning from 100+ coaches
20:00 Coaching philosophy: simplicity, intent, and athlete development
21:00 Core metrics: body weight, 5–10 fly sprint, vertical jump
25:00 Using data to drive athlete buy-in, readiness, and recovery conversations
27:30 Communicating performance data effectively to sport coaches
36:00 Busting the myth: “More is better” in training
38:00 Book recommendation: Crucial Conversations
39:30 Core motto: “Health drives performance. Play more, play better.”
41:00 Closing thoughts & where to follow Cody
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rock Daisy and Its Founders
03:09 The Origins of Rock Daisy
06:16 Transition from NFL to Rock Daisy
08:53 Building a Data Visualization Platform
12:43 The Evolution of AMS and Customer Needs
16:10 Challenges in Customization and Scalability
19:27 The Impact of AMS on Athletic Performance
21:46 Personal Experiences with Rock Daisy
22:29 Building Rock Daisy: A Collaborative Journey
23:37 Data Collection in Sports: Bridging the Gap
24:53 Innovative Data Entry: Simplifying the Process
29:13 Templates and Customization: Tailoring Data Insights
31:51 Empowering Coaches: Sharing and Customizing Dashboards
35:26 The Future of Rock Daisy: Workout Builder and Beyond
40:02 Looking Ahead: AI and New Features for Coaches
42:44 Introduction to Rock Daisy and Its Founders
43:09 The Impact of Rock Daisy on Performance and Life
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Coach Ron McKeefery
01:04 The Evolution of Coaching and Technology
03:43 Understanding Technology's Role in Coaching
07:29 Balancing Technology and Traditional Coaching
11:06 The Impact of GPS and Neuroscience in Training
13:39 Cognitive Skills and Practice Planning
17:50 The Evolving Role of Strength Coaches
21:38 Building Trust and Credibility
24:12 Navigating the NIL and Transfer Portal Era
28:50 Adapting Training Approaches
34:07 The Importance of Mental Strength
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Coach Hunter Eisenhower
03:15 Campus Buzz and Team Dynamics
05:55 Adjusting to Travel and Game Rhythm
08:49 The Role of Force Plates in Performance Monitoring
11:25 Understanding Speed and Jump Metrics
14:11 Teasing Out Fatigue and Adaptation
17:10 Data Consistency and Its Importance
19:56 Practical Applications of Force Systems
22:49 Fast Force vs. High Force Training
29:40 Understanding Reactive Strength and Its Importance
30:46 The Four Jump Test: A Practical Approach
33:09 Metrics for Assessing Elasticity in Athletes
34:05 Balancing Elasticity and Muscular Strength
37:32 Individualization in Training Programs
38:03 Managing Individual Needs in a Team Setting
40:48 The Role of Relationships in Coaching
45:59 Evolving Perspectives on Coaching Impact
51:40 Navigating Personal and Professional Growth
54:31 OUTRO
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Coach Jordan Collins
04:11 Transition to Speed Development and Injury Prevention
07:02 Assessment Process for Athletes
09:54 Utilizing Technology in Training Assessments
12:47 Understanding Asymmetries in Athletic Performance
15:38 The Importance of Horizontal Strength Training
18:22 Integrating Speed and Power Training
21:22 Educating Athletes on Movement Mechanics
24:11 Conclusion and Future Directions
24:45 Unlocking Hip Extension for Athletes
28:04 Navigating Return to Play: Injury Recovery Insights
41:19 Coaching Strategies for Team Settings
44:52 Inside DBC: A Comprehensive Training Facility
48:16 Evolving Perspectives: From Strength to Movement
49:02 Exploring Spinal Engine Theory
50:40 Outro
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Youth Development in Sports
04:43 The Importance of Early Movement Skills
07:28 Creating a System for Youth Training
10:20 Understanding Movement Literacy
13:10 Engaging Parents in Youth Development
15:54 Defining a Good Mover
18:50 Incorporating Movement Principles in High School Programs
32:34 Enhancing Athletic Performance Through Movement
34:30 Innovative Coaching Techniques in Sports
37:24 The Role of Games in Skill Development
39:14 Balancing Expression and Development in Training
42:54 The Importance of Environment in Coaching
47:36 Evolving Perspectives on Training Methods
49:26 Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques in Sports
54:10 Navigating Parenting and Coaching Challenges
56:24 Outro
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of a Coach
06:28 The Importance of Grit and Hard Work
12:15 Navigating Modern Training Challenges
18:07 Finding Balance in Training
23:52 The Role of Environment in Training
33:05 Navigating Youth Environments
38:50 The Importance of Movement Diversity in Youth Training
46:45 Creating Safe Spaces for Play
54:35 Future Directions in Strength Training
01:00:30 Authenticity in Coaching and Social Media
01:02:01 Outro
00:00 Introduction to Coach Seth McFerrin
07:10 Facility Overview and Management
13:00 Facility Features and Design
19:38 In-Season Training Strategies
25:01 Nuances of Olympic Lifting and VBT
31:42 Auto-Regulation and Weight Adjustments
41:16 Weekly Undulating Periodization in Training
46:23 Game Day Training Strategies
54:52 Adapting Training for Young Athletes
01:02:21 Outro
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection
04:28 Transitioning to Florida and Coaching Challenges
06:57 The Importance of Building Relationships in Coaching
09:35 Adapting to New Environments and Technologies
12:32 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy
15:05 Exploring Neurological Approaches in Performance
17:53 Integrating Technology in Training
20:20 The Role of Heart Rate in Basketball Training
23:11 Utilizing Force Plates for Athlete Development
34:48 The Importance of Play in Development
37:24 Understanding Injury Mechanisms
37:53 The Role of Force in Athletic Performance
40:05 Strength Training: Tools and Techniques
43:44 Max Strength vs. Peak Power
46:15 Defining Strength Beyond the Barbell
48:07 The Art and Science of Movement
51:33 Skill Acquisition in Young Athletes
56:25 Balancing Strength and Skill Development
01:02:38 Future Directions in Athletic Training
01:05:21 Outro
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Coach Darren Hansen
07:35 Incorporating Speed Training into the Program
13:15 Session Structure and Training Template
18:37 Understanding Universal Speed Rating (USR)
28:21 Innovative Metrics for Athletic Performance
35:51 Understanding Speed Training and Treadmill Use
48:21 Evolving Coaching Perspectives
53:50 Outro
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Coach Brandon Davis
04:55 Brandon's Journey in Strength and Conditioning
07:40 Transitioning Training Methods: The Clean Debate
10:28 Building Relationships and Adding Value as a Coach
12:50 The Importance of Internships and Career Progression
15:40 Current Training Challenges and Strategies
18:36 Simplifying Training Systems and the Strength Deficit Concept
24:49 Evolving Strength Training Strategies
31:40 Adapting Coaching Philosophies
36:51 Innovative Approaches to Middle School Training
42:35 Refining Movement Patterns for Young Athletes
47:44 Innovative Training Techniques
50:11 Sprinting and Conditioning Strategies
53:23 The Importance of Competition in Training
57:30 Integrating Fun into Conditioning
01:03:08 The Role of Sports Performance Coaches
01:06:37 Outro
Chapters
00:00 The Unconventional Journey of Justin Ochoa
11:21 Building a Basketball-Focused Training Facility
20:18 Individualized Training for Basketball Athletes
29:35 Blending Strength and Skill Coaching
33:47 Taking Responsibility in Coaching
34:40 Jump Development Strategies
36:23 Balancing Strength and Elasticity
38:48 Understanding RSI in Training
47:25 The Value of Velocity-Based Training (VBT)
01:01:05 Outro
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes
02:55 The Journey to Return to Play Passion
04:43 Challenges in Return to Play Processes
06:55 Case Study: College Soccer Player's Recovery
18:01 Scaling Return to Play in Team Settings
23:49 Communication and Collaboration in Return to Play
27:14 Communication in Injury Management
34:20 Speed Training Fundamentals
47:44 Evolving Perspectives in Strength Training
52:13 Outro
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:34 The Journey into Sports Science and Coaching
07:30 The Role of Technology in Strength Coaching
10:30 Data Management and Workflow at Brock University
13:17 Utilizing RPE and Wellness Metrics
17:04 Performance Tracking and Testing Methods
22:38 Insights on Athlete Monitoring and Reporting
28:23 The Importance of Force Plates in Training
35:24 Tech Selection and Implementation in Coaching
39:05 Reflections on Coaching Philosophy
47:49 Current Learning and Research Focus
54:39 Conclusion and Resources
Chapters
00:00 Coach Phillis Introduction
04:47 Navigating the New Landscape of College Football
07:09 The Transition to Head Coach: Lessons Learned
09:37 Building Trust and Communication in Coaching
12:29 Embracing Technology in Training
14:51 Individualized Programming: The Key to Performance
17:22 Velocity-Based Training: Strategies and Protocols
26:05 Understanding Velocity-Based Training (VBT) and Auto-Regulation
29:10 The Role of Competition and Communication in Training
32:53 Developing Peak Power: Training Strategies and Considerations
38:25 Mental Toughness: Discipline, Grit, and Task-Specific Challenges
42:34 The Importance of Communication in Coaching and Learning
44:23 Outro
