What people are saying about Speedburners:
To Rick Hagedorn and Speedburners,
Being a former NFL linebacker, you and I know how important speed is. I have played football all of my life and the influential coaches like yourself helped me to reach my final goal. The only thing in my experience would have been to have had Speedburners available in my hometown.
I want to personally thank you for bringing the most all around athletes to the Nike "You're Faster Than You Think" fastest kid in Southern California Invitational. Your male and female kids outperformed any expectation I could have had. They were not only good athletes but also very well mannered. I look forward to following each of your athlete's futures and wish them the best. If there is anything I can do for Speedburners please don't hesitate to ask.
Keith Miller, Student Sports Magazine, and former NFL linebacker with the St. Louis Rams and Seattle Seahawks
Rick,
I want you to know how grateful I am for all that you've done for me and my boys. I have started a business because of the knowledge I have gained from you. My boy's current and future success is a direct result of what you've done, as well as all the athletes I've trained. I was once told that each person has an effect on 10,000 people in their lifetime and as a coach that is multiplied many times over. Your work and dedication to athletes and myself as a coach will have an impact on many lives for many years to come. Thank you for everything you have done for me and my sons.
John Davis, Director of Kratos Training, and father of Speedburners John Michael and Seth
To Whom It May Concern,
My name is John Brock. I am the Director of Player Personnel for Army Football in West Point, N.Y. My previous job was Director of Football Camps and Combines at Student Sports in Los Angeles, CA. Student Sports is in charge of executing all of Nike's football camps and combines all over the country.
Through my years with Nike I worked with a number of top flight speed coaches all over the country, but none better than Rick Hagedorn. I have known Rick for about three years now and I relied on him heavily during my time with Nike. Whether it was working on a one on one basis or large groups, Rick was always able to get the most out of his athletes.
The unique thing about Rick and what really separates him from other speed coaches is that he doesn't just make his athletes better, he makes them understand the concepts that he is teaching. It is one thing to get an athlete faster and more explosive, but it is another to teach that athlete the techniques to carry it on in the future.
Rick Hagedorn always went above and beyond what I asked of him and he expected nothing in return. Whether it was running a camp of up to 200 athletes or just getting his players to perform at their very best at our events Rick always showed the utmost class and really cared about the people he trained.
I hope my words are enough to show how much I respect Rick as a trainer and a person. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me anytime.
John Brock, Director of Player Personnel, Army Football
"When it comes to speed, Rick is way ahead of his time."
John Teerlinck, Defensive Line Coach, Super Bowl Champion Indianapolis Colts
"Rick is the best speed coach in the country".
Alonzo Highsmith, Pro Football Scout, Green Bay Packers
Rick,
I know my running form isn't perfect, but your help both on the field and off has allowed me to reach my goals. Hope to spend some time on the islands with you soon.
Trent Edwards, Quarterback, Buffalo Bills
Rick,
I didn’t get a chance to thank you for today’s workout. I learned a lot and it shows you are one of the elite! I can honestly say this is the fastest I’ve felt going into camp in my career. Thanks again!
Keith Heinrich, TE Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Rick,
Thank you for everything you have done for me. And most importantly for treating me like family.
Leonard Peters, Former NFL Safety, USA Rugby Team
Rick,
I know this is way overdue but I really must thank you for all that you have done and still continue to do for me. Training with you has brought me to a whole new level in track and I will be forever grateful for your training and support. Being a part of Speedburners has allowed me to realize the importance of pure speed when I train. I know that I would not have become an All American and at one point lead the nation over 800 meters without your help. The atmosphere when training with you has the perfect balance of intensity and excitement, which makes it so enjoyable. Your friendship and support over the past few years has meant so much to me. I respect you so much not only as a trainer but as a wonderful person. Thank you so much!
Emily Dunn, Esperanza High School, Brigham Young University
"I truly believe that Speedburners played a critical role in our team's success last year. Without question, the program maximized our athlete's mental and physical performance. The power and adaptability of Speedburners allowed our players to effectively train in all areas of their game both individually and as a team."
Randy Wellen, Head Basketball Coach and 2004 Orange County Coach of the Year of the 2004 CIF Champion Sunny Hills Lancers
We were fortunate to host a Speedburners youth speed camp at our facility and it was a tremendous success. The two day speed camp provided an outstanding opportunity for the young student-athletes of Northeast Ohio. Rick Hagedorn and his staff did a phenomenal job at teaching the athletes how to train for speed.
I have been following the Speedburners program for the past few years and it is great to see how the program continues to grow each year as more student-athletes and their parents and coaches recognize the value of training for speed. As the level of competition in every sport continues to increase, participating in the Speedburners program is essential in order to compete and excel.
This well organized, highly successful program should be embraced by anyone dedicated to promoting better performance of young athletes.
Ed Suggs, Director of Youth Development & Outreach
Cleveland Browns
Rick,
Thanks for everything! You're the best speed coach ever!
Anthony Chambers, Shreveport Battlewings, Arena Football
I started training with Coach Hagedorn in Junior College on my way to trying to become a Division I football player. Many coaches at that level were suspect of my speed. Rick vastly improved my forty time speed (4.46) and footwork which allowed me to achieve a football scholarship to Colorado State University. I still continue to train with Coach Hagedorn in my quest to reach the next level. I would not be where I am today if it was not for him.
Benny Mastropaolo, Defensive Back, Colorado State University Football
Thanks Rick! You have been a huge part in getting me to the point I am at. I owe you a lot.
Brendan Circle, Wide Receiver, Princeton University Football
What an unbelievable experience for my varsity girls basketball team; Coach Hagedorn and his speed drills are amazing. The girls had a lot of fun while working hard and almost immediately we were seeing improvement in their balance and footwork. I love so much what he has done for my team's overall speed, that now as a father, I have Coach Hagedorn working with my three younger kids.
Roger Anderson, Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach at
Troy High School in Fullerton, California
Dear Rick,
I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have done for me. I had the best track season in my high school career because of your coaching and friendship. It was you and your training that helped me to accomplish things I didn’t think were possible. You coached me to be the fastest girl in Orange County in the 200 meters. I cannot thank you enough for always believing in me and staying with me throughout the entire year. Thank You!
Adriana Bracamonte, Orange Lutheran High Track
I came to Rick Hagedorn in October of 2006 and told him I had a problem. I came from a small NAIA school in which I never started one game, I was now twenty six years old, and my biggest problem was that I actually timed out at a 5.3 forty yard dash. After I dumped all of this on Rick I told him that I had two weeks to prepare for an open tryout with the Arizona Rattlers.
Instead of throwing me out of his office, Rick put me to work. The fact that Rick took me in says a lot about the type of person he is. Most top level speed coaches only work with people that are proven. Rick never treated me any differently than any of his other top athletes.
In just two weeks of Speedburner training Rick got me down to a 4.9 forty yard dash. Being 285 pounds and now running a 4.9 impressed the coaches so much that they signed me to a two year contract. The coaches were very impressed with how quick my feet were and I can only contribute that to Rick and his Speedburner program.
I owe everything to Rick; it was his willingness to take on a small school athlete that has allowed me to achieve my dream of playing professional football. I recommend Rick Hagedorn and Speedburners to anyone that takes training seriously and has the desire to take their game to the next level.
Erik Arevalo, Fullback, Arizona Rattlers, Arena Football League
Rick,
I want to let you know how things are going. I feel really good. I’m in a starting position right now and I feel like I’m in really good shape and I want to thank you again.
Jeanette Pohlen – Stanford Basketball, USA World Games Team
Rick,
Thank you so much for everything you did for me! I feel so blessed. I felt like my season was done and you made me feel successful and more confident and helped me to enjoy track again. And thank you for taking the time to work with me and I would like to work with you more next season!
Ashley Bush, sprinter, Sonora High School record holder in the 100 and 200 meter dash, CIF Finalist in the 100, 200, and 4X100 Relay.
Rick,
I like to check on your website to see what’s happening with all the kids. I just saw what you posted on Ashley! It made me cry. You have been so supportive with your time and talent and encouragement. You’re awesome because you have given and expected nothing in return but to see your athletes succeed.
Thank you for being such a big part of her success these past three years!
Cynthia Cole, mother of Ashley Bush, Sprinter, Sonora High School, moving on to Biola University
Dear Rick,
I'd like to thank you for taking the time to train with me over the past year. I know I have gotten so much stronger and with your help, I feel extremely prepared for college. I will definitely be taking everything I've learned from you and adapting that into my training in Colorado. I'll update you on how everything goes next season. Once again, thank you so much; you have by far been the best and most helpful coach I have ever had!
Allison Francke, Rosary High Track and Field, heading to the University of Colorado
Rick,
Just wanted to let you know that I appreciate everything you’ve done for Keelan. He is seriously motivated by your skills and encouragement. Thank you and may God bless you for being the wonderful person that you are.
Denise Malone, mother of Speedburner DE Keelan Malone, Santa Monica High School, Villanova University Football
Coach,
I just wanted to say thank you for working with me on my speed and getting closer to my goals. I’ve got some gear for you the next time I see you. Thanks a lot coach.
Russell Carr, WR University of Texas at El Paso
Rick,
Trevor had a good season this year that attributed to three solid offers among nine colleges showing interest. I contribute his success this year to Speedburners. The change in Trevor's performance cannot go unnoticed. I truly believe that it has everything to do with the fundamentals that were taught through your training. Thanks!
Tim Erno, father of Speedburner Linebacker Trevor Erno of Lakewood High School. Lakewood, Ca. now playing at the University of Arizona
Coach Rick,
Just wanted to say that I will be forever thankful for you training me and helping me work towards my goal of becoming an NBA player. I never in my life had anyone, relative or friend, help me just for the sake of helping me. It has just been me and Jesus for the longest. The road has been tough and I just wanted to say thank you. In short, God bless you.
Jamal Abdullah, Lone Star College Basketball
Hey Coach,
At the time I came to see you, I was willing to think that 30 was old. What you taught me has seemed to reverse the aging in my body.
I feel great!! I appreciate you Coach, and the time and energy you took to help make me better. You have a great spirit and I know that God will reward you with success in your true aspirations. It was definitely a pleasure working out with you and I hope our paths cross again very soon. With a Brother's Love, Jonathan
Jonathan Weaver, Richmond War Angels, Semi-Pro Football
Rick,
Since my freshman year you have been by my side to offer help and encouragement. Although I was young, I realized then how much your coaching would help me in all aspects of my life. Now here we are again at the State Meet and I know in my heart that I would not be here had you not been in my life. I could never express in words how grateful I am to have you as a coach but I hope you know that you have made an impact on my life in more than just running. Not only have you made me physically a better runner but mentally a better person too. Thank you for coaching me! You are the best!
Vanessa Hancock, Two Time California State Track finalist in the 1600 and 3200 meters, Northern Arizona University Track
Rick,
Thank you for all the support this season! I can’t wait to start working with you again! Speedburners for life!
Meghan Foley – Edison High School, 2 Time State Finalist in the 800 meters. Third at the 2008 California State Meet
Dear Rick,
Thank you for everything you have done for me. I can’t thank you enough. I couldn’t have done it without you!
Corey Nielsen, Gahr High School, University of Hawaii QB
National High School Passing Leader as a junior
Rick,
I forgot to add in that last email – thank you. Thank you so much for helping Tori and Ryan. I doubt I could ever repay you. Those kids are very dear to me, and you’ve treated them like your own, like I do. And I can’t thank you enough.
Nate Fox – Edison High Pole Vault Coach
Speedburner pole vaulters Tori Pena (UCLA) and Ryan Simioni (Cal State Fullerton)
Rick,
Thank you so much for everything that you have done for me. I appreciate you making me a better speed athlete!
Kelsey Harris, Brea Olinda High Basketball, Iowa State University Basketball
Rick:
Thank you again for working with Joshua. I cannot believe the progress he is making in such a short time.
Valerie Starkey, mother of Joshua Diaz, Woodlands High School Football, Woodlands, Texas
Coach Rick,
Aloha from Hawaii. I just wanted to tell you “thank you and much mahalo” for your time that you were willing to give to my U10 girls team in Pearl City. We are a good team and with your techniques we hope to become a very fast team in the near future. The girls and I truly appreciate the lessons we got from you. They have already been applying the proper arm swing techniques and staying on the “balls” of their feet and you can see the difference in speed. I will do my best to emphasize all of your techniques.
I would like to stay in close contact with you so that when you come back to Oahu I would like to have another training session with our team. Thank you again for giving time to our young team.
Aloha!
Ric Ramos, Head Coach, Blitz Futbol Club - Team ELITE U10
Rick,
I just finished rugby season. We screwed the pooch this weekend and lost our playoff spot. Anyway, I'm going to "hang 'em up" now, but wanted to say thanks for everything. If it wasn't for the training you gave me and the skills/drills I was able to attempt to continue on my own I believe I would have "fizzled out" athletically. Instead I was able to give myself a finish I can be proud of.
Last year being a finalist for the Southern California MVP in my division afforded me the opportunities to play for the "select" side and ultimately move up a division and play for Pasadena RFC where I held my own even though at 35 I was about a decade older than practically everyone I played with or against. I started each game at MY position, scored multiple times, and felt I was an impact player. More importantly I believe my teammates felt I was an impact player.
I received several comments through the season about my ability to "run for an old man." Anyway, I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate everything, and if there's EVER anything I can help you with please don't hesitate to ask.
Brian Wolf – Rugby Player
Hey Coach,
I just wanted to say thanks for helping and getting my feet back better than they ever were. I can’t thank you enough! I’ll be back!
Rob Herbert, California Redwoods, United Football League
Coach,
Thanks for all your help. I’ll always have a ticket for you at all my games.
Dominick Sierra, All County DB La Habra High, University of Hawaii Football
Hi Rick,
I want to give you an update on Brian's speed and quickness. In his basketball game today his speed and quickness allowed him to hold his opponent to zero points and keep up defensively without having to cut across lanes. He has reported a much quicker ability to rejuvenate than in the past. Your direct instruction and training techniques have made a positive and obvious difference! As always, thank you for the difference you make!!!!
Patrick Brown, father of ten year old Speedburner Brian Brown
Coach Hag,
A great clinic today at Sonora. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to work with our boys. My son Kyle, improved his speed within the first half hour. When you took the first water break he came over to me and excitedly told me that he knew he was faster, which was already evident to me while watching him during the drills prior to the ladder work. Thanks again for a great day!
Jim Olson, father of Speedburner Kyle Olson
Rick,
I just wanted to express my sincere appreciation for everything you have done (and are doing) for Steve. He had a great meet this weekend, scoring points in all 4 events and running his personal best in the 200 and 400 meter races. You have been very instrumental in getting him focused in the right direction (speed) and developing the physical and mental tools required to compete at a high level. I know the season is very young and we need to make sure he stays injury free….but we are very optimistic at this stage.
Thank you for taking him under your wing! I’m glad I made that call to you back in November.
Jim Ferguson, Father of Dana Hills High Speedburner Sprinter Steve
My 11 year old son Zachary was in the recent Speedburners Camp at the Cleveland Browns Training Facility. Zack told me the camp was “incredible” and really feels his running skills have improved. I also had the opportunity to meet and speak with Rick Hagedorn about putting this all on DVDs. He said things were already in the works for the first DVD to be released. This is an excellent medium to learn from. If there is anything that I can do to help promote Speedburners in Cleveland, please let me know.
Tom Dzurko, Father of Speedburner Zachary Dzurko
Rick,
John’s spirit and attitude have been boosted since he trained with you. Brother you have a serious gift from God! He really respects you. I haven’t seen anyone impact him like that.
John Jacobs, Father of 7th grade Speedburner QB John
I have known Rick Hagedorn since 1999 when I worked at Brea Olinda High as the certified athletic trainer. In that time, I observed him as he worked with high school kids on the football field, track and after hours with private lessons. Rick is, in my opinion, one of the best speed coaches I have ever met at any level. His expertise in the biomechanics, in all phases of the sprint, is outstanding and his focus on technique along with his ability to teach and correct makes him an exceptional coach.
As a certified athletic trainer, I am always concerned with the safety of drills that coaches implement in their workouts. All the drills that I have observed in Rick's workouts have been very safe as well as effective. So much so that I have adopted some of his drills and equipment for injury rehabilitation and prevention with the college and high school teams that I now work with,
Rick has a great personality as well. Athletes have fun during their workouts while at the same time working hard and getting results. This is why Rick draws the most elite track, football and basketball athletes from Orange County and the Southern California area. Many Division I NCAA football athletes train with Rick during their holiday and summer breaks.
I can't recommend Rick Hagedorn and Speedburners enough for
those athletes that desire to improve their speed and quickness.
Michael Anderson, ATC, Former Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer, California State University at Chico, Assistant Trainer with the San Francisco 49ers and presently Head Athletic Trainer at Servite High School in Anaheim, California