Nick DaCosta
Boone
Summary
Objective:
Experienced and results-driven strength and conditioning professional with a well-conditioned history of elevating athlete performance and mitigating injury risk. Seeking to leverage extensive expertise in program design, coaching methodologies, and athlete development to contribute significantly to a progressive athletic program.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Assistant Director of Olympic Athletic Performance
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
07.2024 - Current
- Oversaw the performance training and physical development of five Olympic sport programs (Baseball, Wrestling, Softball, Field Hockey, Track Throwers), including sport-specific periodization, strength & conditioning, and recovery protocols.
- Led a team of three strength and conditioning coaches and interns/graduate assistants; collaborated with sport coaches, athletic trainers, and sport science staff to optimize performance and injury reduction strategies.
- Designed and implemented evidence-based training programs with focus areas in power development, speed, agility, and energy system development tailored to each sport.
- Utilized data analytics and technology (e.g., VBT systems like FitLift, Kinexon GPS, VALD force plates) to inform decision-making and monitor athlete performance trends.
- Directed professional development for performance staff, leading weekly roundtables, workshops, and mentorship initiatives.
- Managed facility scheduling, equipment procurement, and operational logistics for the Olympic Performance Center.
- Contributed to department-wide strategic planning and culture-building initiatives to enhance athletic performance and staff cohesion.
- Spearheaded return-to-play protocols in collaboration with sports medicine for injured athletes.
Intern/GA Strength and Conditioning Coach
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
01.2021 - 06.2024
- Assisted and designed individualized strength and conditioning programs for collegiate athletes in various sports.
- Facilitated team-oriented training sessions while delivering personalized coaching tailored to enhancing the athlete’s strength, power, speed, and agility.
- Ensured athletes received comprehensive instruction in proper technique, background knowledge on resistance training, and exercise physiology as needed.
- Administered fitness assessments utilizing up-to-date performance metrics and analytical tools to monitor and assess athlete progress.
- Contributed to facility upkeep, equipment inventory management, and operational efficiency to ensure an optimal training environment.
- As an Intern, assisted in coaching baseball, men's and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, wrestling, track throwers, field hockey, women’s soccer, softball, and cheerleading.
- As a Graduate Assistant, coached as the head strength and conditioning professional responsible for baseball, track throwers, and field hockey.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Exercise Science
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC05-2022
Master of Science - Exercise Science
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC05-2024
Skills
- Proficient in advanced strength training methodologies, skilled at applying periodization principles, and knowledgeable in designing exercise prescriptions in various sports
- Well-versed in sport-specific conditioning protocols, speed enhancement strategies, and plyometric methodologies
- Skilled in utilizing various fitness assessment instruments regarding functional movement screening protocols
- Demonstrate exceptional communication skills and a firm grasp of interpersonal dynamics, which contribute to effectively motivating and engaging athletes
- Knowledgeable in sports nutrition fundamentals and experienced in providing dietary recommendations to enhance athletic performance
- Skilled in adjusting training approaches to meet the unique requirements, goals, and performance standards of individual athletes
- Technologically adept and proficient in Microsoft Office, athlete management software, and advanced performance tracking systems
Certification
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
- USA Weightlifting Level 1 Certification (USAW-L1)
Timeline
Assistant Director of Olympic Athletic Performance
Appalachian State University
07.2024 - Current
Intern/GA Strength and Conditioning Coach
Appalachian State University
01.2021 - 06.2024
Bachelor of Science - Exercise Science
Appalachian State University
Master of Science - Exercise Science
Appalachian State University