About John McCormack

Hey there,

If you’re here, you’re probably looking for someone to guide you in your journey towards athletic excellence, someone who truly gets it. Well, let me introduce myself – I’m John McCormack and I understand sports, not just from the sidelines, but from the heart of the action. I’ve been where you are, and I’m here to help you get where you want to be.

From a young age, my fascination with how our bodies work and our potential for performance ignited my passion. Growing up in England, I was that kid who was all about biology and how things tick in our bodies. I wasn’t book-smart though; I was that energetic child who lived and breathed sports. Soccer, swimming, gymnastics – you name it, I was in the game.

Life took me from England to Ireland when I was nine when my family decided to move back home to Ireland, and that’s when the spark for martial arts was lit. Boxing and Karate became my world, a world I dipped my toe into for a small bit to fill the void left by playing soccer in England. But as I transitioned into my teenage years, life took me down a slightly different path – the construction trade. It was a detour I took to make ends meet, as my burning desire for a sports-centered career couldn’t quite find its footing at the time because there were no options at the time to make a career out of it.

However, the call of sports was relentless. At 19, I stepped back into the gym, this time with kickboxing, followed by Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the thrilling world of MMA. The economic slump of 2007 pushed me to Australia, a journey that would change everything. There, amidst Olympic-level athletes and top-notch coaches, a light bulb went off in my head – I could turn my passion into a profession.

Returning to Ireland was a no-brainer. I was on a mission to learn, to understand, and to make a difference. I set my sights on a degree in sports science. But life had a slightly longer route for me. Certain colleges I wanted to attend had only a handful of spots for mature students like me, so I opted for a feeder course in leisure management. One step at a time, right?

Then came the pivotal moment. An opportunity arose at Limerick Institute of Technology – a Sports Strength and Conditioning degree that was all about getting hands-on. It was like this course was tailored for someone like me, someone who thrives in the trenches, turning science into action, and witnessing athletes’ growth up close.

Through a twist of fate, the college introduced a Personal Training extension course right after my leisure management course. I seized it. Three days a week, I was training, learning, and also earning money as a Personal Trainer. A leisure centre became my home for five years, where I honed my skills while pursuing my Sports Strength and Conditioning degree.

These years have been a journey of stepping up and diving in. I’ve worked with athletes from various domains – MMA, BJJ, powerlifting, GAA, Hurling, Rugby – you name it. I’ve seen victory at world championships and Arnold classics, and I’ve stood alongside GAA athletes, helping them grow through long-term athletic development.

But why combat and contact sports, you ask? That warrior mindset. Having walked the path of kickboxing, boxing, MMA, and BJJ, I understand what it takes. It’s that unbreakable determination to excel, to conquer, to push beyond limits – it’s a mindset I share with my athletes.

And yes, I have worked with many GAA footballers, GAA hurlers, and Rugby players. These sports, even though I haven’t competed in them at a competitive level, fascinate me deeply. It’s that go-to-war attitude, that readiness to give it your all. While I may not have personally competed, I do bring a deep understanding of the athletic pathways these sports require. I served as the Athletic Development Officer for Gort GAA for two years, and just like I’ve mentioned earlier, I’ve worked closely with numerous athletes from these domains.

Now, I’m here, offering you the same dedication that has shaped my journey. Online coaching is my way of reaching out to fellow warriors, no matter where you are in the world. I’m not just armed with knowledge; I’m armed with 17 years of martial arts experience and 6 years of college education in human performance. I’ve had conversations with the finest minds in the field, and all that expertise is at your service.

I don’t promise fancy words or grandeur. What I promise is honesty, trustworthiness, and a shared journey. If you’re on the fence, wondering if strength training is your thing, let me tell you – it’s not just about muscles; it’s about unlocking your true potential. I’ve been there, and now I’m here for you.

So, let’s embark on this journey together. Your goals, your ambitions – they’re my mission. Let’s dive into the world of sports science, let’s take your performance to the next level, and let’s do it with heart, grit, and a touch of that warrior spirit.

See you on the other side,

John McCormack

BscH Sports Strength and Conditioning

mackelitejmc@gmail.com

https://calendly.com/mackelitejmc/discovery