THE TEAM
The People | The Purpose | The Passion
Nakia Muhammad
Athletic pEFORMANCE Trainer
Multi-Sports Performance
Nakia Muhammad’s journey into sports began at around six years old, playing basketball at the YMCA. Surrounded by the energy of sports, he developed a passion by participating in various athletic activities. Through sports, Nakia began discovering traits of success that extended far beyond the field and court. Early achievements, tournament wins, and moments of adversity—both personal and as a team—created lifelong bonds with coaches, teammates, and even competitors, fueling his inspiration to stay close to sports throughout his life. Watching his older siblings play motivated him to compete and pursue sports with dedication and determination.
The biggest influence on Nakia’s athletic career has been his siblings. As the youngest, he learned about competition early, developing the mental and physical toughness needed to succeed. One of his greatest challenges as an athlete was managing the pressure of high expectations at a young age. Nakia overcame this by focusing on his love for sports and prioritizing team goals, allowing him to stay committed to his role and contribute to his team’s success.
A defining moment in Nakia’s athletic career came during his junior year at Paul Harding High School, where he achieved the milestone of winning a state championship—a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and passion.
Nakia trains athletes because of his passion for both sports and helping people. As a trainer, he finds fulfillment in guiding athletes to elevate their skills and create future opportunities in the sports they love. His satisfaction comes from seeing them succeed and grow, knowing that his efforts are contributing to their journey toward greatness.
His primary goal for athletes is to help them reach their objectives, such as earning scholarships, and to teach them how the skills gained through training can lead to success beyond sports. By recognizing these valuable traits, Nakia helps athletes apply them across other professions and areas of life, ultimately increasing their opportunities for success.
Sports have shaped Nakia into the person he is today, instilling qualities like teamwork, discipline, and effort—traits that continue to impact his educational, professional, and spiritual life. In his work with athletes, Nakia focuses on developing intentionality, effort, and discipline, believing that these three qualities greatly increase an athlete’s potential and accelerate their growth when practiced consistently.
The most rewarding experience for Nakia as a trainer is watching athletes succeed beyond their sport, using the skills learned in training to find success both on and off the field.
Beyond sports, people might be surprised to learn that Nakia is an avid reader. He spends much of his spare time on self-improvement, constantly seeking ways to grow in the many roles he fulfills each day.
Nakia’s hobbies include reading, attending sporting events, watching movies, and working out. His life is a testament to the power of sports to build character, inspire growth, and foster lifelong learning.
JALEN VANDERBOSCH
Athletic pEFORMANCE & Skill development trainer
Multi-Sports Performance | Separation Wide Receiver & Tight Ends | 7v7 Coach
Jalen Vanderbosch’s journey into sports began as early as he can remember, with baseball, basketball, and football becoming central parts of his life. His first inspiration came from his father, a successful three-sport athlete in high school and college basketball player, who instilled commitment, discipline, and hard work in Jalen and his brother. These values formed the foundation of Jalen’s athletic and personal development.
One of the biggest influences on Jalen’s athletic career has been Dre Muhammad, who guided him through nine years of training. Dre taught him to embrace discomfort daily, to give 100% effort, and to understand that perseverance eventually brings success. While Dre provided Jalen with the tools to excel in football, he also equipped him with skills for life, making a lasting impact on his journey.
Throughout his athletic career, Jalen consistently faced the challenges of being an underdog. From coming off the bench in high school to walking on at a Division I college program, he worked twice as hard as others with fewer opportunities. Although he didn’t have the same advantages as some of his peers, he accepted that his path would require detours, committing to improving every day. His defining moment came when he earned a scholarship at the Division I level after years of dedicated training, mental preparation, yoga, and support from those who believed in him.
Jalen’s passion for training athletes stems from a desire to give back to the game and to find purpose beyond himself. After a career-ending injury in 2023, he saw training as a way to fill the void and to inspire others through his athletic background. He believes in guiding athletes who understand their "why," commit fully, and work toward their goals with consistency. Witnessing these athletes succeed fuels Jalen’s passion and confirms his positive impact on their journey.
His primary goal for athletes is to help them develop a mindset that embraces discomfort daily, believing this will ultimately lead them to success. He often quotes Dre Muhammad: “The difference between good athletes and great athletes often isn’t skill set, it’s mindset.” Jalen is dedicated to helping athletes break new barriers and consistently elevate their performance.
Sports have taught Jalen that life is not about himself but about being a positive influence on others. Through sports, he learned how to build genuine connections, surround himself with supportive people, stay consistent and disciplined, and persevere no matter how long it takes to reach his goals. These qualities now guide his approach as a trainer, and he is grateful for the chance to share them with the athletes he trains.
For Jalen, the most important qualities he emphasizes are consistency, hard work, intrinsic motivation, perseverance, and self-discipline. He knows that while trainers can provide the platform, athletes need these qualities to achieve their goals.
The most rewarding aspect of training for Jalen is seeing athletes overcome discomfort, push beyond their limits, and experience the joy and confidence that come from finishing a challenging workout. Watching their growth is a reminder of the process and perseverance needed to reach new heights.
A surprising fact about Jalen is his love for visiting the zoo; he even once visited ZooTampa solo just to feed a rhino! Outside of training, he enjoys working out, dining out, and golfing.
As an older sibling, Jalen has always taken pride in setting a strong example for his family. His approach to training reflects his role as a positive role model, paving the way for his siblings and striving to guide each athlete he encounters.
One piece of advice Jalen wishes he’d received as a young athlete is that even if you give everything you have, it might not be enough for some. This is why it’s crucial to keep improving and refining your craft; all it takes is one opportunity, and from there, it’s up to you to make the most of it.
Ethan Hoover
Athletic pEFORMANCE & Skill development trainer
Multi-Sports Performance | Eclipse Linebacker & Defensive Back | 7v7 Coach
Ethan Hoover’s journey into athletics began with a deep love for hockey, a sport he enjoyed from a young age. By the age of six, he was inspired to start playing flag football, following in the footsteps of his older cousin, whose competitive spirit motivated him. These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for sports.
Supported by a strong family foundation, Ethan’s character was shaped further by influential mentors like Lawrence Barnett and Dre Muhammad. Through years of rigorous performance training and mental development, they helped him grow not only as an athlete but as a person, instilling in him discipline, skill, and character. His experience with the Snider Football program reinforced these values, building a commitment to teamwork, hard work, and competitive excellence.
Ethan’s path wasn’t without its challenges. An ACL tear during his junior year of high school temporarily sidelined him, but he returned stronger, earning recognition as Defensive MVP, Team Captain, and All-State. Another ACL surgery in college tested his resilience, yet with focused rehabilitation and support, he continued to play and ended his college career with a series of impactful performances. He learned to overcome physical setbacks and external pressures by concentrating on personal growth and surrounding himself with positive influences.
A defining moment for Ethan came during his final year in college. Despite enduring injuries, including a broken ankle and multiple knee surgeries, he concluded his athletic career with strong performances, bringing him a sense of satisfaction that underscored the importance of resilience and preparation.
As a trainer, Ethan brings his respect for the role that rigorous training played in his own life to every athlete he works with. He understands that a competitive training environment builds the confidence necessary for athletes to excel at higher levels. Ethan’s main goal is to instill confidence in his athletes, both on and off the field. His approach focuses on equipping them with discipline and a mindset that translates across all aspects of life.
Sports have not only shaped Ethan’s discipline but also his sense of humor and approach to life. From intense one-on-one drills to team camaraderie, sports have taught him the value of hard work, a light-hearted competitive spirit, and the power of leading by example. Ethan values qualities like coachability, eagerness, and efficiency in his athletes. He believes that those who are coachable and enthusiastic have a competitive edge and that efficient techniques can often outperform raw physical attributes.
For Ethan, the most rewarding aspect of training is seeing athletes grow over time and capitalize on their opportunities through preparation. Watching them succeed reaffirms his commitment to his work.
Outside of training, Ethan enjoys spending time with friends and family, diving into creative projects, and unwinding with video games or movies. His journey has taught him valuable lessons, and he encourages young athletes to approach sports with dedication and consistency, as the lessons learned provide a solid foundation that transcends athletics.
A personal experience of loss taught Ethan an invaluable lesson: even when things don’t go as planned, the approach you take can still make a difference. This perspective has shaped his commitment to giving athletes every chance to succeed.
Luke Owens
Athletic pEFORMANCE & Skill development trainer
Multi-Sports Performance | Eclipse Linebacker & Defensive Back | 7v7 Coach
Luke Owens’ journey in sports began early, with a deep love for competition that fueled his drive to explore every sport possible. Basketball and football, however, quickly emerged as his true passions. Luke spent his youth playing in leagues like PAL and AAU basketball and later transitioned to 7v7 football, experiences that laid the groundwork for his future in athletics. By high school, Luke focused his efforts on both sports, eventually taking his football career to the collegiate level.
Key influences along the way have been his older brother and Lawrence Barnett, who each pushed Luke to achieve new levels of dedication and skill. His brother showed him the importance of perfecting the small details and always giving his best. Lawrence Barnett helped Luke elevate his skills as a defensive back, refining his technique and instilling qualities that shape his approach to both life and training today.
Luke’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. Health setbacks and physical limitations tested his resilience, temporarily sidelining his football aspirations. But with the help of the Traction team, Luke remained committed to his growth, honing his physical and mental capabilities and deepening his understanding of the game. A defining moment in Luke’s athletic career came when he received his first scholarship offer—a milestone that reinforced the rewards of hard work and Traction’s support.
Today, as a trainer, Luke is driven by the desire to equip athletes with every tool and resource they need to succeed. He is passionate about guiding them to become the best versions of themselves, both on and off the field. His goal is to see athletes progress, develop discipline, and reach their full potential, especially as they pursue opportunities in collegiate sports. Luke’s focus in training is to foster a mindset of continuous improvement, hard work, and attention to detail, helping each athlete unlock their unique potential.
When he’s not training, Luke enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out, and, of course, playing basketball—he even claims the title of best basketball player on the Traction staff. He also has an MBA from Indiana State University, adding a unique perspective to his coaching approach.
Luke’s advice for young athletes is to fully embrace the process and recognize the lifelong benefits of disciplined effort. He encourages them to enjoy each moment in their athletic journey, understanding that their time in sports is precious. For Luke, the most rewarding aspect of coaching is seeing athletes take pride in their progress and reach new heights, knowing he’s helped them along the way.
Kathy Little
INSTRUCTOR
Yoga | Meditation & Visualization
Yoga was a practice that I engaged in purely for my own benefit including enrollment in a 200 hour yoga teacher certification class in 2016. I did not intend to teach - just deepen my own understanding and to develop my leadership skills. That all changed when my son suggested I teach athletes. He was a football player and was well aware of all the benefits of a regular yoga practice that I had shared with him. Once he planted that seed, I knew that Yoga for Athletes was my calling.
I truly love the energy of an athlete - their determination, ability to embrace challenges, desire to improve, even their hesitancy to embrace yoga and restorative practices as an integral component of their training. I meet each individual where they are at and move them forward into understanding how their body works and feels, how yoga can help them with their sport and most importantly - how the lessons learned through a yoga practice directly relate to life lived "off their mat."
Some may be surprised to learn that we live on a 145 acre farm, where I am passionate about land and animal management. We have nurtured many acres back to a native Indiana prairie, rid the property of invasive trees and plants, and maintain healthy animal populations through hunting and fishing.
I love to travel, entertain, do anything physical, play games, basically - I like to stay active and surround myself with my family and friends while doing anything!!
Currently, I teach weekly yoga sessions with middle school through high school students while privately meeting with college and professional athletes. My interest has expanded into meditation and visualization services, as well.
DMITRI GHOLSTON
Skill development trainer INSTRUCTOR
Barricade Offensive and Defensive Lineman
Dmitri Gholston, born and raised in Fort Wayne, IN, has been dedicated to sports and the local community from a young age. His journey in athletics began with guidance from his neighbor and mentor, Wilbert Monroe, who coached Dmitri in the Spartans program through Metro Youth Sports. From there, Dmitri’s athletic path continued at Prince Chapman Academy Middle School and later at Bishop Luers High School, where he achieved a defining moment in his career: winning a state championship.
Throughout his journey, Dmitri was influenced by another key figure, Mike Egts, whose belief and investment in him—both on and off the field—left a lasting impact. Dmitri's junior year was a pivotal time when he received honors as a lineman and found himself reaching new heights in football. Overcoming daily challenges and learning the value of commitment and consistency helped shape Dmitri’s approach as both an athlete and a mentor.
Now, as a trainer, Dmitri’s purpose is to help young athletes reach their full potential and guide them through the obstacles they face. His goal is to encourage continuous improvement in each athlete and, when possible, support them in advancing to the next level. Dmitri focuses on technique, consistency, and building self-confidence, knowing firsthand that these qualities lead to growth on and off the field. The greatest reward for Dmitri is hearing from former athletes who attribute part of their journey’s success to his guidance and training.
Outside of training, Dmitri finds balance in his life by staying active in the gym, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Although he once wasn’t fond of animals, Dmitri now shares his home with two dogs, a cat, and even a snake! Each day, he is driven by challenges, motivated to be his best self, and grounded in gratitude for every moment and memory along the way.
TY LAWSON
Skill development trainer
InZone Running Backs | 7v7 Coach
Ty Lawson’s journey in sports began at the age of four when he started Taekwondo, where he first discovered the value of discipline, focus, and camaraderie. As he developed friendships, he joined other sports alongside his friends, experimenting with nearly every major sport. However, by fourth grade, Ty’s love for football had taken center stage, and it became his primary focus. Inspired by his sister’s achievements in sports, Ty set his sights on greatness, driven to make his own mark in athletics.
One of the most significant influences in Ty's athletic career came from his first trainer, Ryan Hill, who instilled in him the values of discipline and dedication—qualities that Ty carries into his career as both an athlete and a trainer. Although Ty faced challenges as an undersized athlete, he learned to maximize his natural abilities, contributing on the field with skill and leadership, even taking on the role of team captain. This experience helped him recognize the vital life skills sports provide, shaping his character both on and off the field.
As a trainer, Ty’s purpose goes beyond developing athletic skills. He is deeply committed to building meaningful connections with athletes and their families, understanding that the journey toward each individual’s goals is a shared endeavor. Ty’s primary goal is to guide athletes in developing their skills, confidence, and discipline, emphasizing life lessons that extend beyond sports. For Ty, the title of "Coach" has become a significant part of his identity within the community, representing his dedication to mentoring the next generation of athletes.
Outside of training, Ty enjoys staying active through hunting, fishing, and working out with friends. His best advice for young athletes is simple yet profound: “Run your own race. Focus on being the best version of yourself and minimize comparisons to others.”
With each new experience, Ty’s commitment to guiding athletes only grows, driven by a deep passion to help each individual become not only a better athlete but also a better person.
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The People | The Purpose | The Passion
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