Introduction

Our mission is to elevate athletic performance through targeted, scientifically-backed training methods. This past fall, we partnered with the athletes of Delphos St. John’s for a 12-week speed and plyometric training program aimed at boosting acceleration, enhancing top speed, building explosiveness and ultimately helping each athlete reach their full potential. This case study outlines the significant improvements achieved through the Verus Methods, particularly in 10-yard split acceleration times and 25-yard fly top-speed drills.

Program Overview

The 12-week contract with Delphos St. John’s applied Verus Methods designed specifically for speed and plyometrics. Training focused on two primary areas:

1. Acceleration: We emphasized drills and strength exercises to improve athletes’ acceleration in the first 10 yards—a critical component of speed in nearly every sport but especially basketball.
2. Top Speed: We also incorporated 25-yard fly drills, pushing athletes to reach their max velocity. By working on both acceleration and top speed, the Verus Methods aimed for well-rounded speed gains that could translate to overall athleticism.

The Verus Methods program utilized a combination of plyometric exercises, drills targeting quick burst strength, and form coaching. Training sessions were designed to not only enhance physical performance but also build confidence in technique, which plays a significant role in athletes’ competitive abilities.

Results: Measuring Success

The outcome of the 12-week contract with Delphos St. John’s was clear and quantifiable. Each athlete saw measurable improvements in their 10-yard split times, with an overall team average improvement of 10.67%. This progress speaks to the effectiveness of consistent, targeted training.

Here’s a breakdown of each player’s percentage improvement in their 10-yard splits:

• Cam Elwer: 11.11%
• Easton Elwer: 10.47%
• Andrew Elwer: 13.29%
• Brayden Klaus: 17.49%
• Grady Martz: 12.72%
• Keeton Elwer: 10.53%
• Grayson Elwer: 11.34%
• Aiden Swick: 9.52%
• Eli Swick: 9.20%
• Evan Martz: 9.88%
• Maddox Kragoer: 5.75%
• Keno Martz: 6.70%

These improvements demonstrate that each athlete made substantial strides in acceleration and explosive power. One of our biggest successes from this 12 week period was helping Andrew Elwer. On day one, Andrew was not dunking. It was very clear that he had the potential to do so we just needed to help him unlock it. On our last day Andrew threw down his first dunk. This was a great moment for both Andrew and VA because it showed that through targeted speed training and improvement in jump mechanics Andrew improved his vertical in the weeks leading up to the season. 

Training Highlights

1. 1. Plyometric Training: Exercises included box jumps, depth jumps, and single-leg plyometric drills to increase power and explosiveness. This added strength was crucial for improving the quick-burst acceleration needed for short sprints.
   2. Acceleration Drills: Key drills focused on body positioning, leg drive, and ground contact time, all essential for powerful acceleration in the initial 10 yards. Improving form and technique allowed athletes to generate force more effectively, translating into faster sprint times.
   3. Top-Speed Development with 25-Yard Flys: By incorporating 25-yard fly drills, we helped athletes tap into and sustain their maximum speed. The technique and endurance built through these drills played an important role in enhancing their overall performance.

• Athletic Truth Group (ATG): We were able to incorporate ATG style warm ups to help supplement that in the workouts. The idea behind this was to subtly add longevity in each guy through improving their overall lower leg strength and introducing the backwards sled. 

Takeaways & Next Steps

The Verus Methods proved effective not only in measurable speed and vertical improvements but also in the athletes’ confidence and understanding of proper technique. Delphos St. John’s athletes are now better equipped with the tools they need for elite athleticism while enhancing skills that will serve them well in their upcoming competitive seasons.

Our work with Delphos St. John’s is an example of the impact that dedicated, structured training programs can have on the youth when done intently. The energy, focus, and intensity of the Blue Jays is the real reason they saw these improvements. We are excited to continue to work with the program to help build the Game-changer mentality within the Blue Jays.