How do you build instant credibility in a business that boasts a science-based approach to performance sports training and the use of cutting-edge technology?

You put it in a technology center, that's how.  And that's exactly what Athletic Republic Annapolis did in March 2009, opening their doors for business in the Maryland Science and Technology Center located off Highway 301, between Annapolis and Baltimore.

Technology is front and center here.   Athletes can scan a wristband to have their identity linked to their test data.  A specialized force plate, the 3PQ, measures an athlete’s explosive power.  Running form is played back on a big screen, enabling athletes and coaches to review technique together immediately after a sprint bout on the Super Treadmill.  Volleyball players can improve their hitting speed and jump mechanics with the SoloSpike volleyball training system, while improving their acceleration, power, and on-court agility.

“We decided to open an Athletic Republic franchise after surveying the competition and seeing the need in the Annapolis/Washington DC/Baltimore area for an elite performance sports training facility,” said co-owner Chris Graziano.  “Glenn Kerr and I had coached youth sports for many years, and had watched some winter speed and agility training programs grow in popularity, to the point we believed we could make a business out of it.  Frappier Acceleration's timely transformation to Athletic Republic perked our interest and the franchise business made sense to us.  We visited numerous facilities, and were excited to bring the concept back to Annapolis."

With more than 6800 square feet of training space, the facility includes a 10 foot x 30 foot turf field, a 30-yard track, and Athletic Republic’s proprietary training equipment.  Even the treadmills here are high-tech, capable of speeds up to twenty-eight miles per hour and elevations of 40 percent.  There is also a cardio and strength training area.  The lobby area is outfitted with high-definition televisions and wireless network access, providing a spot for parents and athletes to connect.

Athletic Republic Annapolis has received a warm welcome in their first six months of operation.

“The community response has been tremendous.  Local youth organizations have latched on to our facility and continued to spread the word about the improvements athletes who train at our center are seeing,” states Graziano.  “We have been able to partner with a few elite high schools in the area, and have formed an alliance with the Maryland Crab Bowl as a training partner.  The Crab Bowl is a football game for the top sixty seniors in Maryland. There is also a Youth Maryland Crab Bowl for eighth graders.”

Their focus extends beyond the gridiron.

"We are also planning to introduce lacrosse specific programs this winter that will utilize our advanced science-based technology and protocols.  We hope to offer a unique and new way to teach and refine lacrosse specific movements and improve stick skills, shot speed, and overall athletic ability." 

To learn more about Athletic Republic Annapolis, visit www.athleticrepublicannapolis.com or call (301) 262-7781.

Athletic Republic Annapolis Team

CHRIS GRAZIANO – Principal & Managing Partner
Chris was a competitive multi-sport athlete playing through college. He obtained a B.S. in Management Information Systems and has a M.B.A from the University of Maryland. As an owner and entrepreneur, he has realized tremendous success in the software development business. He is the father of three highly competitive elite athletes and knows that Athletic Republic will give them and other serious athletes an opportunity to reach their full potential. He has been involved in coaching and administering youth athletics for over 20 years and is passionate about helping young athletes reach their full potential.

GLENN KERR- Principal & CIO
Glenn brings a wealth of business and athletic experience to the Athletic Republic  Annapolis team. As a multi-sport high school athlete, he excelled at both football and baseball. He earned his B.S. in Information Systems, and is currently the Chief Technology Officer for a multi-national foreign exchange company. For twelve years, Glenn has coached youth sports (including basketball, baseball, lacrosse, and football). Glenn continues to play basketball and has played on a National Championship Flag Football team. Glenn ensures Athletic Republic Annapolis utilizes the latest technology to help athletes improve their performance.

KRISTIN LUNDEEN – Center Director
Kristin has been involved with Athletic Republic since its inception.  At that time was known as The Frappier Acceleration Program. Kristin holds a B.A. Degree in Exercise Science, is ASCM certified, and holds Athletic Republic's Level 3 Certification. As an athlete and sports performance coach, Kristin has experienced the reward of hard work in the program translating to improved performance in competition. Kristin coordinates all aspects of the facility and looks forward to working with many new athletes.

ElIJAH BROOKS – Sports Performance Director
Elijah has been actively involved in strength and conditioning programs for over 5 years. He holds a B.S. in Kinesiology from the College of William and Mary. He also holds both CSCS and NSCA Certifications. Elijah is the Assistant Strength and Condition Coach at DeMatha HS as well as the Varsity Football Running Backs Coach. His Fitness Therapy background and athletic training experience are assets to the Athletic Republic Team. Elijah is excited to provide world-class health and fitness training to athletes at Athletic Republic.

NICK NOVAK - Performance Coach
Nick received a Bachelor Degree in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland from the School of Public Health. He ended his college career at Maryland with 393 points, best in the ACC and fifth-best all-time amongst kickers in the NCAA. Nick signed his first NFL contract with the Chicago Bears, and earned starting jobs with the Redskins, Cardinals and Chiefs. Nick has extensive experience in the sport performance industry and has had the opportunity to train with some of the best performance coaches in the business. 

STEVE WILLIAMSON - Performance Coach
Steve is a currently a junior at the University of Maryland pursuing a B.S. in Kinesiology.  Steve is planning to attend physical therapy school after graduation in 2010. His interests include ice hockey, track & field, and soccer which he has played since age 6.

MATT MERICLE - Performance Coach 
Matt is a currently a senior at the University of Maryland pursuing a B.S. in Kinesiology.  He is an Athletic Republic Level II certified trainer and has coached at a variety of football clinics, combines, and camps.