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

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.

Dr. Dylan Edwards DPT, CFCS

Physical Therapist

Before graduating from the physical therapy program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), Dylan was a dedicated personal trainer for nearly a decade, working across the spectrum of fitness and healthcare. His background in athletics includes high school football, track and field, rugby, and powerlifting. Dylan brings firsthand experience to injury rehabilitation, having personally recovered from a dislocated elbow and a significant concussion followed by post-concussion syndrome.