- Resilience Blueprint
- Posts
- Building Core Strength — Who is Zach Case?
Building Core Strength — Who is Zach Case?
Why his story is inspiring for all athletes and business professionals
Grant Chiasson
November 08, 2024 • Read Time: 10 minutes
Welcome to the 15th edition of Resilience Blueprint!
In this edition:
Friendship, family, our “path” on our journey, consistency, pressure, visualization/positive self talk, focus through criticism, faith, call to action.
A Friendship on the Field
This week, I’m honored to share the story of my longtime friend and colleague, Zach Case. Zach and I met playing football together at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA, where we forged a bond built on shared passion, discipline, and a drive to better ourselves both on and off the field.
Over the years, Zach and I have remained great friends and colleagues, supporting each other as we pursued our careers in sports and performance coaching. His journey through resilience, family values, and relentless dedication has been nothing short of inspiring, and I’m excited to share his story with you.
Zach vs. Air Force Academy
About Zach Case
Zachary Case, husband to Katie and father to two beautiful children, Stella Rose (5) and Crew Simon (2), is a South Louisiana native with deep roots in Morgan City.
After high school, he pursued Health and Physical Education at Northwestern State University, where he distinguished himself as a 4-year starter on the football team, a 2x All-Conference offensive lineman, and an Offensive Team MVP.
Following his college career, Zach transitioned into coaching, first as a student assistant at Northwestern, then as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach and Interior Offensive Line Coach at the University of Arkansas-Monticello.
From there, his journey took him to Colorado, where he built a high school strength and conditioning program from the ground up. In 2019, Zach returned to Louisiana to open Core Sports Performance, a performance training facility that has since grown to serve hundreds of athletes across South Louisiana.
His vision was clear: to create a space where athletes, coaches, and individuals alike could push their limits, find their potential, and become more resilient in both sports and life.
The Challenge: Forging a Path in a New Field
Starting a business in the sports performance and strength conditioning industry was no small feat.
In an emerging field that demands both expertise and education, Zach knew he faced an uphill battle. He had to not only establish Core Sports Performance as a credible facility but also educate clients on the science and value of structured strength training.
It was a new frontier, and Zach’s journey required a combination of grit, adaptability, and a willingness to go beyond the ordinary.
The CORE SP Team
Consistency: The Backbone of Resilience
Zach’s approach to this challenge centered on one core principle: consistency. He explains, “Long-term planning with short-term execution is the recipe for development.”
Whether it’s building an athlete’s strength or establishing a business, Zach believes that a baseline standard is essential. He set his schedule, balanced his time between business and family, and committed to showing up each day, even on the toughest ones.
This consistency wasn’t just about business growth; it was also about preserving his family time and ensuring he showed up for the people who meant the most to him.
Stella Rose!
Facing Pressure and Finding Strength in Family
Running a business isn’t easy, especially when navigating unexpected challenges. Over the past few years, Zach’s resilience has been tested by two hurricanes, a global pandemic, and the joys and pressures of raising young children.
Through it all, Zach leaned on his family as his anchor. “My family is always my happy place,” he says. “Katie helps me manage my thoughts and brings confidence in what I need to do next.”
Family, fitness, and faith became his pillars, keeping him grounded and motivated through every storm.
The Power of Partnerships and Team Members in Athlete Development
Zach attributes much of his business success to his partner and team members. Knowing he can rely on a team that shares his vision for developing athletes gives him confidence.
They work together, committed to helping athletes not only improve their physical abilities but also develop resilience and character. This shared dedication creates a positive environment for athletes and contributes to Core Sports Performance’s success.
For Zach, resilience isn’t just an individual trait; it’s something that’s cultivated and amplified through a strong, aligned team.
Mental Strategies for Success: Visualization and Positive Self-Talk
Zach’s experience as an athlete taught him the value of visualization and positive self-talk—skills he still uses today.
From visualizing plays on the field to planning out new business strategies, Zach applies the same mental toughness he learned in sports.
He talks himself through tough calls, focuses on positive outcomes, and envisions each step, staying calm and intentional in the face of obstacles. He knows that seeing success in his mind first makes it more achievable in reality.
Handling Criticism with a Thick Skin and a Clear Focus
As someone who works with athletes, Zach has developed what he calls a “callus” against external criticism. He knows the importance of listening to valuable feedback but doesn’t let unnecessary negativity sway him.
“If I wouldn’t ask for your advice, I wouldn’t be concerned with what you have to say,” he notes, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on voices that genuinely contribute to his growth.
This mindset allows him to keep his energy directed at those who support his vision.
via Googel
The Shift in Mindset: Inspired by Faith and Purpose
Through the ups and downs, Zach’s motivation has deepened, shaped by his desire to be a strong Christian, a dedicated husband, and a role model for his kids.
For Zach, resilience isn’t just about overcoming business challenges—it’s about making an impact on those around him. As he explains, “Motivation will come and go, but as long as you set your baseline standard and never go below it, you will find success.”
It’s a mindset that reminds him to lead by example and make a difference in the lives of those he coaches.
Words of Wisdom: Advice for Aspiring Resilient Leaders
For those facing similar challenges, Zach’s advice is powerful yet simple: “Love God. Stay hungry, stay humble. Work hard, stay consistent, and do right. Be kind, love others, and be someone your kids will be proud of.”
For Zach, resilience means staying true to your values, working hard, and finding joy in helping others grow and succeed.
Closing Thoughts
Zach Case’s story is a testament to what resilience looks like in action. Through challenges, Zach has consistently found strength in his faith, family, and dedication to helping others succeed.
His journey reminds us that resilience is more than just enduring tough times; it’s about setting a standard, staying consistent, and finding joy and purpose along the way.
Each week, Resilience Blueprint brings you stories like Zach’s to inspire and empower you on your own journey. Whether you're pursuing personal goals, building a business, or working to make a difference, remember that resilience is built, one day at a time, through the values and actions you choose.
Grant Chiasson Mental Performance
-Let’s Chat
If you’re looking to improve your mental clarity, performance, or overall wellness through sport psychology principles, I’d love to help you on your journey. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or simply someone looking to get your life back on track, I offer coaching that combines mental performance strategies with real-world, practical advice.
Click the link below ⬇️
I love helping athletes stay focused and maintain mental clarity when dealing with injury.
Victory pic with QBs!
Did you enjoy this newsletter? |