West Wake News

Success in sports is often attributed to the collective efforts of a team, and for the North Carolina Courage, one individual has played a pivotal role behind the scenes. Mike Young, Director of Performance, has been instrumental in shaping the culture that has led to the team's unprecedented success in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

The Courage have claimed seven league trophies and earned the NWSL Shield during their first three years in North Carolina. This achievement is built on a foundation of hard work, accountability, and a rigorous training environment. Young's expertise in sports performance has been central to this success.

Young's background includes working with top European soccer clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal, as well as NBA and rugby teams. Since joining the Courage in 2017, he has applied his extensive knowledge of sports science to enhance player performance.

"When I first got into the sport about 15 years ago, that kind of thing hadn’t really been done at a high level," Young explained. "Now, people are catching up to a science-based approach to training."

Young emphasizes data-driven methods encompassing fitness, nutrition, and injury prevention. His approach is supported by advanced technology and data analysis.

"There is nothing that we do...that doesn’t get calculated or measured," said Courage defender Kaleigh Kurtz.

Young utilizes biometric data from devices like Oura Rings and player surveys to assess recovery and energy levels. GPS and heart rate data help monitor physical exertion.

"We train very hard compared to most other teams," Young stated. "Our ability to do that is contingent on our planning and load monitoring."

Each player's training regimen is tailored individually. "Fair is not equal," Young remarked regarding personalized training plans.

Kurtz exemplifies Young's impact; she holds an NWSL record for consecutive regular season minutes without missing any game time over three seasons.

"He understands our bodies...He knows when we need to be aerobic or anaerobic," Kurtz noted.

Young's diverse background spans multiple sports including track & field where he developed skills applicable across various domains.

"Track & field is brutally honest...Training people for that sport makes you focus on what really works," Young said.

His philosophy combines physical prowess with tactical understanding—a cornerstone of Courage’s culture supported by Head Coach Sean Nahas: "Every day has to be more difficult than a match weekend."

Players recognize Young's contributions; Captain Denise O’Sullivan called him "the G.O.A.T." She added: "We want to grow...it’s really helpful when you have that environment."

For Young himself: “I’m very grateful I’ve been able to have an impact on the club.”

Young continues pushing boundaries within sports science while helping players reach new heights—both personally fulfilling endeavors he cherishes deeply within this team-focused atmosphere at North Carolina Courage.