Holistic Resilience and Transition Strategies for Tactical Military Athletes

More About Me
My portfolio is designed to showcase where I’ve been and where I’m headed, with the long road somewhere in the middle it took to get there.

Education
Doctor of Health Science & Exercise Leadership (DHSc)
​May 2022 - August 2025
Master of Science in Nutrition (MS)
May 2021 - August 2022
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science & Health Promotion (BS)
August 2017 - May 2021
Tactical Strength and Conditioning (TSAC), Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Jan 2024 - August 2024
Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest)
Advisor: Dr. Marc Federico
Portfolio: Holistic reslience and transition strategies for tactical military athletes
California University of Pennsylvania (CALU)
Advisor: Dr. Jeffrey Hatton ​
California University of Pennsylvania (CALU)
Advisor: Dr. Jeffrey Hatton
Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest)
Advisor: Dr. Brian Oddi
​Capstone: Enhancing performance and readiness program (EPR)

Publications
Mindfully Tactical: Practical Strategies for Thriving in High-Stress Situations
ISBN: 9798394713460
Mindful Tactics: Practical Strategies for Everyday Life
ISBN: 9798394010583
Mindful Fuel: Nourish Your Body and Mind with Mindful Nutrition, Strength, and Conditioning
ISBN: 9798394508127
Mindful Bites: Nourishing Recipes for the Tactical Athlete
ISBN: 9798394728020
Tactical Resilience: Building Mental Strength Through Mindfulness
ISBN: 9798395470379
Mindfully Tactical: Practical Strategies for Thriving in High-Stress Situations" is a book about the importance of mindful tactical thinking for tactical athletes. It provides practical strategies and tools for developing and incorporating mindful tactical thinking into everyday life, both during and after service. The book is aimed at helping tactical athletes improve their performance, manage stress and emotions, and make effective decisions in high-stress situations, which can be everyday living post-service for some.

Mindful Tactics: Practical Strategies for Everyday Life is a comprehensive guide to incorporating mindfulness and tactical thinking into daily routines and interactions. Written by a tactical athlete and health professional with extensive experience in exercise science, nutrition, and tactical athlete performance, this book provides practical tips and strategies for reducing stress, improving productivity, enhancing communication, making better decisions, promoting physical and mental health, cultivating relationships, and advancing social and environmental sustainability. Each chapter presents key concepts, research findings, and real-life examples, along with practical exercises and mindfulness techniques that can be applied to a wide range of situations. Whether you're a busy professional, a student, a parent, or simply seeking to improve your well-being and the world around you, this book will help you develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in today's fast-paced and complex world.

Unlock your full potential as a tactical athlete with "Mindful Fuel: Nourish Your Body and Mind with Mindful Nutrition, Strength, and Conditioning." This transformative book is the third installment in the Tactical Athlete Performance Series, designed to empower you with the knowledge and strategies needed to optimize your nutrition, training, and overall well-being.

Ignite Your Performance: The Tactical Athlete Cookbook. Mindful Bites: Nourishing Recipes for Tactical Athletes" is a game-changing cookbook specifically designed to fuel the performance of tactical athletes. Authored by Tony, a highly qualified strength & conditioning coach and nutrition specialist with a background as a former FMF Navy Corpsman, this cookbook is the ultimate resource for optimizing nutrition and achieving peak performance. Inside, you'll find: Tactical Athlete Nutrition Insights: Gain a deep understanding of the unique nutritional needs of tactical athletes and how to optimize your diet for maximum performance, endurance, and recovery. Mindful Eating for Success: Learn the principles of mindful eating and how to apply them to your daily meals, ensuring you make informed choices that support your training goals. Power-Packed Recipes: Explore a diverse range of delicious and nutrient-dense recipes carefully crafted to provide the essential fuel your body needs. From energizing breakfasts and satisfying main courses to wholesome snacks and decadent treats, each recipe is designed to optimize your performance. Meal Prepping and Planning: Discover time-saving techniques for meal prepping and planning to help you stay consistent with your nutrition goals, even during the busiest days. On-the-Go Fueling: Uncover portable and convenient snack options that will keep you fueled and energized, whether in the field, on a mission, or engaged in intense training. Expert Tips and Guidance: Benefit from Tony's extensive experience and expertise as he shares practical tips, cooking hacks, and strategies for maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. With "Mindful Bites," you'll discover a world of flavorful and nourishing recipes specifically tailored to the needs of tactical athletes. Fuel your body with the right nutrients, optimize your performance, and achieve your fitness goals like never before. It's time to take your performance to the next level with the power of mindful nutrition for tactical athletes.

"Tactical Resilience: Building Mental Strength Through Mindfulness," part 5 of the Tactical Athlete Performance (TAP) series, offers readers an insightful guide to enhancing their mental fortitude and resilience through the practices of mindfulness and tactical thinking. In today's high-stress, high-stakes world, the ability to stay focused, maintain composure, and bounce back from adversity is more crucial than ever. Whether you're a tactical athlete in the military, law enforcement, firefighting, or an everyday individual navigating life's challenges, this book serves as an essential tool to help you thrive under pressure. The book begins by defining mental strength and resilience, highlighting the critical role of mindfulness in tactical situations. It then delves into the fundamental principles of mindfulness and provides practical exercises and techniques you can incorporate into your daily routine. Readers will discover strategies for developing focus and concentration, regulating emotions, and building mental endurance through mindfulness. The book also explores how mindfulness can enhance resilience in the face of setbacks and aid in stress and crisis management. Alongside theoretical knowledge, the book offers real-life case studies demonstrating the application of mindfulness in high-stress scenarios. It provides tips for implementing a daily mindfulness practice and tailoring mindfulness techniques to individual needs. Moreover, the book also addresses the role of mindfulness in recovery and rest, aiding in learning and growth post-action. "Tactical Resilience: Building Mental Strength Through Mindfulness" is more than just a book; it's a journey towards greater resilience and a healthier, more balanced life. It's time to unlock your potential and harness the power of mindful tactics. Embark on this journey today and discover how you can thrive under pressure with mindfulness and tactical thinking.

Resilience 2.0: Strength & Conditioning Strategies for Tactical Athletes
ISBN: 9798397001540
"Resilience 2.0: Strength & Conditioning Strategies for Tactical Athletes," TAP's sixth installment, introduces cutting-edge training methods for tactical athletes. This book is written for the tactical athlete, whether you're just starting or have years of experience. I hope to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and strategies you need to achieve peak physical and mental performance despite the unique challenges you face in your demanding roles. "Resilience 2.0" delves into the world of tactical athletes, discussing the most recent findings and insights gleaned from real-world examples that will change how you train for strength and speed. Everything you need to know to get the most out of your training, from the fundamentals to advanced techniques, is covered in depth. First and foremost, we recognize the unique mental and physical challenges faced by members of the armed forces, law enforcement, and emergency services. Identifying these roadblocks is critical for developing effective training programs. Throughout the book, we cover the fundamentals of strength and conditioning, focusing on recovery, digital resource utilization, and creating individualized workout plans. The future of tactical athlete training, as well as injury prevention tips, are all covered in detail. I provide you with a strategy for success by combining established theories with tried-and-true practices and cutting-edge research. The usefulness of its recommendations distinguishes "Resilience 2.0." Every chapter contains actionable advice to incorporate into your workout routine immediately. Recognizing that each tactical athlete has a unique background, goals, and resources, I emphasize the importance of customization and flexibility. With the help of this book, you can tailor your workout routine to your specific needs and goals. As strategic athletes, we understand the importance of staying healthy and competing for a long time. As a result, the book focuses heavily on ways to avoid injury and ensure long-term health. I provide you with the knowledge and resources to reduce your risk of injury, recover quickly, and continue performing at a high level for years. "Resilience 2.0" is a wealth of information to help you develop into a formidable tactical athlete. We can better prepare you for the demanding roles by strengthening your physical and mental resilience through weight training.

The WELL Mission: Empowering Veterans for Leadership and Life Beyond the Military
ISBN: 9798879008869
Incorporating Military Style Training for Peak Hockey Performance
"The WELL Mission" unveils the comprehensive approach of the WELL Program in assisting veterans as they transition from military to civilian life. This book delves into the multifaceted challenges veterans encounter and the innovative solutions the WELL Program offers, from mental and physical health support to social reintegration and economic stability. Designed for veterans, their families, and anyone seeking insight into the veteran transition process, it highlights the importance of a holistic support system in ensuring a successful reintegration into civilian life.

Incorporating military-style training into hockey can elevate player performance and resilience both physically and mentally. Drawing from my experience as an FMF Navy Corpsman and research from my Doctor of Health Science studies at Pennwest University, I emphasize the importance of resilience, adaptability, and readiness—attributes crucial for success in both military and hockey environments. This article explores the integration of military-inspired conditioning techniques, such as visualization, mindfulness, and psychological resilience, into the training of the Fayetteville Marksmen, an SPHL team. These methods, combined with an emphasis on team unity and recovery, have improved player performance, fostered collaboration, and prepared athletes for the unpredictable nature of their sport. By merging military discipline with hockey training, players can develop the mental toughness and physical readiness needed to succeed in the game and beyond.





Certifications & Specializations
Teaching and Online Education
Child Nutrition and Cooking Certificate – Stanford University
Learning How to Learn with Honors Certificate – DTS
Online Learning Design for Educators Specialization – Macquarie University
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Foundations of Online Teaching
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Create Video, Audio, and Infographics for Online Learning
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Using Zoom to Connect with Learner
​​Virtual Teacher Specialization – UCI
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Foundations of Virtual Instruction
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Emerging Trends & Technologies in the Virtual K-12 Classroom
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Advanced Instructional Strategies in the Virtual Classroom
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Performance Assessment in the Virtual Classroom
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Final Project
Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order Certificate – University of Michigan
Writing in the Sciences Certificate (with Honors) – Stanford University
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Health, Nutrition, and Exercise​
NASM Nutrition Education for the Consumer Specialization
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Plant-Based Diets
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Making Sense of Supplements
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Understanding Food Labels and Portion Sizes
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Nutrition Hot Topics and Controversies
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Navigating Diets
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Science of Diet and Exercise
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Metabolic Makeover
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Science of Fat Metabolism
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Aligning Diet and Exercise
Hacking Exercise for Health Certificate – McMaster University
Science of Exercise Certificate – CU
The New Nordic Diet: From Gastronomy to Health Certificate – University of Copenhagen
Weight Management: Beyond Balancing Calories Certificate – Emory University
Food Sustainability, Mindful Eating, and Healthy Cooking Specialization – Stanford University
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Rebuilding Our Relationship with Food
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Introduction to Food and Our Environment
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Cooking for Busy Healthy People
Healthy Practices: Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Community Participation Certificate – University of Colorado
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Nonprofit Leadership/Management
Introduction to Nonprofit Law Certificate - PENN
Social Impact Strategy: Tools for Entrepreneurs and Innovators Certificate - PENN
Crowdfunding Certificate - PENN
Giving 2.0: The MOOC - Stanford
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Leadership and Emotional Intelligence
Inspiring Leadership through Emotional Intelligence Specialization – Case Western Reserve University
Achieving Personal and Professional Success Specialization – PENN
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Success Certificate
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Improving Communication Skills Certificate
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Leading the Life You Want Certificate
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Influence Certificate
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Psychology and Positive Well-Being
Foundations of Positive Psychology Specialization – PENN
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Martin E. P. Seligman’s Visionary Science
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Applications and Interventions
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Character, Grit, and Research Methods
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Resilience Skills
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Specialization Project: Design Your Life for Well-being
The Science of Well-Being Certificate – Yale University
Positive Psychiatry and Mental Health Certificate – The University of Sydney
Mindfulness and Well-being Specialization – Rice University
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Foundations
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Living with Balance and Ease
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Peace in, Peace Out
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Research and Statistical Analysis
Psychological Research Specialization – APA
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Methods for Quantitative Research in Psychology
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Ethics of Psychological Research
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Statistics in Psychological Research
Qualitative Research Honors Certificate – UC Davis University
Quantitative Research Honors Certificate – UC Davis University
Understanding Medical Research Certificate – Yale University
Understanding Clinical Research: Behind the Statistics with Honors Certificate – University of Cape Town
Intro to Statistics Certificate (with Honors) – Stanford University
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Mental Health and Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive-Based Therapy (CBT) SOWK-7530 Certificate – PennWest Online
Managing Emotions in Times of Uncertainty & Stress Certificate – Yale University
The Science of Generosity: Do Good … Feel Good Certificate – Penn
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Specialty Certifications & Memberships
Speciality Certifications
IRB CITI Certificate
NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Coach (CSCS) (In Progress)
NSCA Tactical Strength & Conditioning Coach (TSAC-F) (In Progress)
NASM Performance Enhancing Specialist (PES)
NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
NASM Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS)
NASM Certified Nutriton Coach (CSC)
NASM Certified Sports Nutrition Coach (CSNC)
NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
Adult & Pediatric CPR/First Aid (Valid through 07/2025)
NASE Certified Speed Specialist Level 2 (CSS)
ISSA Elite Certified Personal Trainer (ECPT)
ISSA Nutritionist Certification
ISSA Strength & Conditioning Certification
ISSA T3 HIIT Specialist
ISSA Bodybuilding Specialist
dotFIT Nutrition Certification
ExpertRating Certified Master Personal Trainer (CMPT)
ExpertRating Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
ExpertRating Sports Nutrition Coach (SNC)
ExpertRating Sports Performance Specialist (SPS)
ExpertRating Six Sigma Black Belt Certification
MCMAP Black Belt 1st Degree
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Memberships and Affiliations​​
North Carolina Veterans Council Attendee
Veterans Studies Association (VSA)
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Lifetime Member - 3208343361572
Marine Corps League Member - 252961
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
Wounded Warrior Foundation (WWF) - Warrior ID 6164818947
AMSUS Student Membership
NSCA Student Membership
ACSM Student Membership
PHATS/PHEM Pro Hockey Athletic Trainer Membership (2020 - current)
PHATS Educational Newsletter Committee
Journal of Veteran Studies (Peer Reviewer)
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Membership