North Wake News

Success in sports is rarely achieved alone, and the North Carolina Courage's accomplishments in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) are a testament to this fact. With seven league trophies, including multiple NWSL Shields, the team has set records and established a reputation for excellence. This success is built on a culture emphasizing hard work, accountability, and fitness.

A key figure behind this culture is Mike Young, the Director of Performance at the Courage. Young is renowned in sports performance circles, having worked with top teams like Liverpool and Arsenal in Europe, as well as NBA and rugby teams. Since 2017, he has focused his expertise on the Courage.

Young's approach combines data analysis with decades of coaching experience. "When I first got into the sport about 15 years ago," he explained, "that kind of thing hadn’t really been done at a high level." His methods have kept the Courage ahead in sports science.

Data plays a central role in Young's strategy. "There is nothing that we do... that doesn’t get calculated or measured," said Kaleigh Kurtz, a defender for the Courage. The team's performance data comes from various sources and is analyzed using an AI-based system.

Young elaborated on his process: “We’re taking biometric data from Oura Rings... We use GPS and heart rate data to determine how much the player has done." This meticulous approach ensures players remain at their peak without overtraining.

The training philosophy under Young emphasizes individualized care. “Each player is treated as an individual," he noted. This approach allows for tailored training regimens based on each player's needs.

Kurtz exemplifies Young's impact; she holds the record for consecutive regular-season minutes in the NWSL. She credits Young's understanding of athletes' bodies: “He understands our bodies and he can push us to be our best."

Young’s journey into soccer began with limited knowledge but extensive experience across other sports such as track and field. His work with teams like the Carolina RailHawks led to success that eventually brought him to MLS’s Vancouver Whitecaps before joining the Courage.

Track and field’s focus on physical ability influences Young's philosophy: “Training people for that sport makes you focus on what really works.” He applies this mindset to soccer while incorporating tactical nuances unique to the sport.

Courage Head Coach Sean Nahas praised Young’s contributions: “Every day has to be more difficult than a match weekend... There’s no player that comes into our environment that doesn’t get better.”

Players recognize Young's influence too. Denise O’Sullivan, captain of the Courage, stated: “We all call Mike the G.O.A.T.... Training is never easy with Mike here.”

For Young, helping players achieve their dreams drives his passion: "I’m very grateful I’ve been able to have an impact on the club."

Through his work with North Carolina Courage, Mike Young continues pushing boundaries in sports science and performance coaching.