Summer Success: AT’s Training Program Boosts Athlete Performance

Joe Lojewski, Niagara Wheatfield’s dedicated Athletic Trainer, is well-known for his role on game days, but his contributions extend far beyond the school year.

When the final horn sounds, Lojewski’s focus shifts to helping Falcons athletes succeed through his Competitive Edge sports performance program in New York.

Since its inception, the program has become a staple for student-athletes looking to improve their performance during the summer months.

Before Lojewski’s arrival five years ago, Niagara Wheatfield lacked a consistent summer workout program due to high turnover in the Athletic Trainer position. 

Determined to make a lasting impact, Lojewski established the Competitive Edge program, which caters to all athletes, regardless of their sport.

Starting its fourth year, the five-week, four-day schedule begins Monday and runs through August 8 at Niagara Wheatfield High School.

The program offers two 90-minute sessions each day, focusing on both cardio and strength training. In the first half, athletes work on improving their cardio, sprinting, distance running, and agility. The second half is dedicated to weight room exercises, targeting all muscle groups through activities like squatting and bench pressing.

Lojewski’s commitment to the program has seen participation grow from 20-25 students in its first year to 40-45 students last year. The positive feedback from athletes, like Ava Devald, keeps him motivated. Devald, a starting goalkeeper for girls soccer and midfielder for girls lacrosse, credits the program for enhancing her strength and performance in both sports.

“It’s a quick, consistent workout. And it’s a lot of fun too... Joe makes a really good effort to help everybody and make sure everybody can succeed in their own way.”

Beyond his primary role of managing and rehabilitating injuries, Lojewski’s summer program fosters strong relationships with athletes, providing them with essential skills to stay in shape.

“I like to think (Competitive Edge) is a really good balance of being able to put in a lot of hard work to prepare the athletes for their sport but also a ton of fun.” 

Read his full story on the Niagra Gazette!