Opelika Athletic Performance is a comprehensive, year-round development program utilized by every student-athlete at Opelika High School. Designed to support all sports and seasons, the program establishes unified training standards while allowing for sport-specific application. From foundational movement and strength development to recovery, nutrition, and data-driven performance tracking, every component works together to build stronger, safer, and more prepared Bulldogs.

“Development happens here.”

Great athletes are great movers. At the core of our athletic performance program is a commitment to building better movement, because everything begins with a strong foundation.

We emphasize proper movement patterns, sound technique, and correct form before progressing in intensity. Our approach prioritizes injury mitigation while enhancing athletic performance through ground-based multi-joint training executed in all three planes of motion. Every session is designed to prepare student athletes for the demands of their sport.

Graduates of our program leave with the knowledge and skills to train properly, move efficiently, and maintain lifelong physical health. Whether stepping into a college weight room or a local recreation center, our student-athletes are prepared, confident, and built for long term success.

We are committed to providing Opelika student-athletes with a premier high school training experience. Our program integrates advanced technology and performance data to guide training decisions and deliver immediate, measurable feedback.

This technology allows us to evaluate performance with precision, equipping athletes and coaches with clear, actionable data. Every lift, sprint, and jump is purposefully tracked to ensure intentional progress and measurable performance.

Technology & Performance Tools include:

• Apple iPads at every training station
• Rock Daisy Athlete Management Software
• Vitruve Velocity-Based Training Units
• Dashr Laser Timing Gate System
• Titan GPS Units
• OVR Performance Jump Testing

By combining proven training methods with modern performance technology, we create an environment built for growth, accountability, and sustained excellence.

Proper nutrition is the foundation of athletic performance. While training may take place for one hour each day, what happens in the other 23 hours has the greatest impact on development, recovery, and long-term results.

Our Athletic Performance program emphasizes fueling the body with purpose. We educate student-athletes on the role nutrition plays in strength, endurance, recovery, and overall health, helping them build habits that extend beyond the weight room.

To support our athletes’ nutritional needs, we offer access to Critical Reload Performance and Recovery Shakes. We also incorporate nutrition education through Critical Reload’s TV Stream, providing consistent, practical guidance on performance fueling and healthy living.

For more information about Critical Reload, visit: criticalreload.com.

Critical Reload Recovery Shake Enrollment Form

Kade McGee

Kade McGee serves as Director of Athletic Performance for all Opelika High School athletic programs. In this role, he designs and implements comprehensive, year-round performance programs focused on movement efficiency, strength development, speed and power training, work capacity, and injury mitigation.

A native of Brent, Alabama, Coach McGee earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from The University of Alabama, where he gained hands-on experience working with multiple athletic programs in the weight room from 2016–2019. He later earned his Master’s Degree in Coaching Education and Athletic Development from Xavier University

Coach McGee holds the prestigious Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is also a High School Strength Coach Certified (HSSCC) professional through the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA). He currently serves as the Alabama State Director for the NHSSCA, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to advancing the profession statewide.

Previous Experience
American Christian Academy | 2019–2024

Notable Achievements
NHSSCA Alabama State Coach of the Year (2022)
NSCA Strength of America Award – American Christian Academy (2020–2022)
NHSSCA Program of Excellence Award – American Christian Academy (2023–2025)
High School Strength & Conditioning All-Americans – 3 (2022, 2023, 2024)

Kourtney Hughes

Kourtney Hughes serves as Head Athletic Trainer at Opelika High School, bringing eight years of experience in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and return-to-play care. She plays a vital role in supporting every athletic program, working closely with the Athletic Performance staff to ensure student-athletes train safely and recover effectively.

Throughout the day, Hughes collaborates during strength and conditioning sessions to implement modified techniques and individualized exercise plans tailored to each athlete’s specific injury and recovery needs. Her presence within the performance environment reinforces proper mechanics, reduces injury risk, and supports long-term athlete health.

Originally from Oviedo, Florida, Hughes earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from the University of North Florida. She began her professional career as a graduate assistant athletic trainer at Opelika Middle School while completing her Master of Science in Exercise Science with a focus in Biomechanics from Auburn University.

Hughes is a Board-Certified and Alabama Licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT, ATC) and holds a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).

Clair Mattox

Clair Mattox serves as both a teacher and athletic trainer at Opelika High School, supporting student-athletes through injury prevention, evaluation, and return-to-play care while also contributing to the classroom. She brings more than a decade of experience in athletic training and four years of teaching experience at Opelika High School.

Originally from Alexander City, Alabama, Mattox earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Troy University. She began her professional career as a graduate assistant athletic trainer while completing her Master of Education in Exercise Science with a concentration in Biomechanics at Auburn University.

Mattox is a Board-Certified and Alabama-licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT, ATC) and holds a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential. She and her husband, Dillon, live in Opelika with their three children: Gracelyn, Macie, and Thomas, and their dog, Belle.