These pillars go beyond sports — they shape character, focus, and work ethic for life.

Discipline – Learning to listen, focus, and execute each task with purpose.

Commitment – Building strength and body control through fun, fundamental movement patterns.

Effort – Understanding that success takes sweat, consistency, and heart.

Enthusiasm – Competing with energy, confidence, and pride in every rep.

Pride – Demonstrating growth through testing and games (verticals, sprints, reaction drills, and more).

“These are the same five pillars that were instilled in me by legendary Coach ‘Buck’ Nystrom during my playing days at NMU — lessons that shaped not only how I trained, but how I coach and lead today.”
— Coach Branch