Fox Chapel Area High School among 2 in state to earn award for strength and conditioning program

Fox Chapel Area High School is being lauded for its strength and conditioning program, one which leaders said is a foundation for lifelong health and wellness.

The high school earned the Strength of America Award to recognize its elite program. The honor comes from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

The district is among two in the state to receive the award.

“Our program is a district approach that is not just about athletic performance,” Athletic Director Mike O’Brien said.

“I think that really encompasses our mission and this is a great opportunity to educate people on what we do and want to continue to build.”

The award was given to schools which exhibit the highest standards in safety and success for young athletes.

Founded in 1978, the NSCA is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the strength and conditioning-related sport science professions around the world.

Fox Chapel Area was evaluated in four categories: supervision, education, program and facilities.

Eligibility requirements include staffing the weight room, daily inspections, equipment variety and implementation of performance-enhancing drug prevention programs.

Eric Mahon, the NSCA coaching and sport science program manager, said the award shows the dedication Fox Chapel Area High School has shown to promoting best practices when training on the field and in the weight room.

The award represents a high level of supervision and facility conditions, Mahon said.

The district is one of 40 new and renewing schools chosen from hundreds of eligible schools across the country.

Social studies teacher and interscholastic strength and conditioning head coach Brandon Peifer leads the high school program.

“It feels good to have the hard work and dedication of the athletic department, as well as the high school physical education department, administration, sport coaches, athletes and the strength and conditioning staff recognized,” he said.