meet the TEAM

Tom Nelson

Founder | Co-Director of Performance | Head 7v7 Coach

TNT is owned and operated by Tom Nelson. Tom is a NFL veteran, Illinois State alumni, and a Hersey High School graduate. He studied under Landon Evans, head of Sports Science and Nutrition for Olympic Sports at the University of Iowa. His passion is helping other local athletes exceed expectations and meet aspirations. His purpose in starting TNT is to mentor and guide those looking for answers in speed, strength, power, change of direction, recovery, nutrition, recruiting, and overall well being.

EXOS Performance Specialist (XPS)

Brandon Stryganek

Director of TNT Track & Field Academy | Performance Specialist

Brandon is Former NCAA All-American & Big Ten Champion Brandon Stryganek. Coach Brandon grew up in Hawthorn Woods Illinois and attended the University of Illinois after his time at Adlai E. Stevenson High School. His goal, along with the rest of our coaching staff is to prepare each individual for an opportunity to compete at the collegiate level. 

USATF Level I, II

Paul Prale

Co-Director of Performance | Data Analytics

Paul is a graduate of Cornell College where he played baseball. Originally from Lincolnwood IL, and attended Niles West High School. Paul will lead our athlete data collection and continue to coach athletes as a performance coach.

Austin Molter

Performance Specialist

Austin is originally from Dublin, Ohio, and has been in the Chicagoland area for about 8 years. He graduated from Florida Southern College with a degree in Human Movement and Performance and a minor in Coaching. As a former collegiate baseball player and strength and conditioning coach with the Detroit Tigers, Austin knows what it takes to get to the next level and looks forward to getting the TNT athletes to reach their potential.

Dr. Larry Frank Jr., PT, DPT, CSCS

Physical Therapist

Larry is originally from Northern California, completed his bachelor’s degree at The University of Arizona, and graduated from Northwestern University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He is experienced in working with athletes of all ages, understanding what it takes to rebuild, safely return to sport, and compete at a high level. His passion in physical therapy is bridging the gap from rehab to performance to help athletes feel stronger and more confident when returning from injury.

Chris Riley

7v7 Coach

Chris has worked with Tom since the inception of TNT. Coach Riley attended Warren Township High School and Illinois State University. Following his college career, Chris was signed as an un-drafted free agent offensive lineman. Chris was later a member of several NFL practice squads. With great relationships with both college and NFL coaches Chris is always striving to learn more to educate his athletes. Chris enjoys working with the athletes at TNT and wants to help them achieve their goals on and off the playing surface. Coach Riley is an excellent motivator and brings intensity to the workouts that ensure the athletes will reach their potential.