
At Sheepdog Athlete, we aim to ignite and guide clients’ internal and external motivators so they can better do what it is that inspires them. Inspired individuals will change their lives and the lives of those around them.
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We prepare custom Mental, Nutritional, and Physical Performance Coaching that combines the latest research with effective training methods to complement the clients’ lifestyle.
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Meet your coach
Mark

'Mental' Mark, the creator of Sheepdog Athlete, stands out not just as a devoted husband and father to five, but also as an esteemed Naval Aviator, Ironman competitor, and an impassioned advocate for continuous personal growth. His rich tapestry of experiences, stretching from notable military service to personal fitness coaching, has imbued him with deep-rooted expertise in mental performance coaching and strength and conditioning. This expertise is meticulously tailored to meet the specialized needs of youth athletes and tactical professionals alike, including military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and EMS workers.
EXPERIENCE
Mental Performance Coaching Experience:
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Military Background (16 years): Mark’s extensive service in roles such as Navy Submariner, Scuba Diver & Submarine Rescue Swimmer, Naval Special Warfare Scout/Trainer, and Navy Pilot, has endowed him with unparalleled abilities in fostering mental resilience and toughness. His military experiences emphasize the importance of adaptability, overcoming fears, and cultivating confidence and mental preparedness—essential traits for peak performance in both athletic and high-stakes operational environments.
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High School Softball Coach & Mental Performance Specialist: Beyond his family and military achievements, Mark has significantly impacted youth sports as a coach, mentoring two state semifinalist teams and leading players to achieve two first-team and one second-team All-State honors, with one being recognized as State Player of the Year. His success in these roles highlights his capability to develop mental fortitude and a competitive edge in young athletes, skills equally vital for tactical athletes facing high-pressure situations.
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IRONMAN Competitor: Mark’s personal journey to setting strength records while training for the IRONMAN triathlon showcases his ability to leverage mental and physical training strategies. This feat exemplifies his conviction in the power of mental resilience to transcend physical boundaries.
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Education & Certifications: With a Master's in Performance Psychology and ongoing certification as an AASP Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC), Mark’s academic pursuits solidify his proficiency in applying psychological principles to enhance performance in both sports and tactical fields.
Strength and Conditioning Coaching Experience:
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Youth Athlete Coaching: Mark’s dedication to Long Term Athletic Development lays the foundation for his work with youth athletes. His strategies focus on developing training regimens that are not only age-appropriate but also tailored to the physical demands and resilience required by competitive sports programs.
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Military and Fitness Expertise: Mark’s military service, combined with his experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Personal Trainer, and Group Fitness Instructor, has fine-tuned his skill in creating strength and conditioning programs that maximize physical capabilities. These programs are designed to ensure safety, promote healthy habits, and address the unique physical and mental challenges faced by tactical athletes.
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Certifications: Mark is an NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and holds certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer and ACE Certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, and Youth Fitness Specialist. These credentials affirm his commitment to delivering scientifically-based, effective training protocols suited for both youth and tactical athletes.
Mark’s unique fusion of military discipline, psychological insight, and personal training expertise positions him as a foremost authority in mental performance and strength conditioning coaching for a diverse clientele. His dedication to guiding individuals—whether young athletes aspiring to greatness or tactical professionals committed to excellence in their demanding roles—towards achieving their full potential, both mentally and physically, is the hallmark of his career.
Education & Certifications
Masters of Arts in Performance Psychology
Bachelor of Science Degree
NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
AASP Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) (in progress)
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor
ACE Youth Fitness Specialist
NASM Certificate in Mental Toughness
DOL Counselor (Professional & Kindred)