Beyond sports, Larkin emphasizes the importance of personal development.CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — A love for sports and a childhood spent paving his own way led John Larkin to follow his passion and work with youth in his community, helping them become the best version of themselves.”It’s always been talked about that the community needs something […]
Beyond sports, Larkin emphasizes the importance of personal development.CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — A love for sports and a childhood spent paving his own way led John Larkin to follow his passion and work with youth in his community, helping them become the best version of themselves.”It’s always been talked about that the community needs something like this,” he said. “I felt like it was something I could do for them, so they had a place they could call home.”Working with young athletes has also taught Larkin about himself.Larkin takes pride in giving back to the place he calls home.”It’s part of my purpose to help them get to the next level—to be a guide, a mentor, someone I didn’t have growing up,” Larkin said. “That’s who I’m trying to be for the kids in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.””Our passion is football—I love football,” he said. “I do a lot of football skills training, but with my background in strength and conditioning, I’m also certified in speed training, agility, vertical jump, and mobility.””I’m really excited to see more female athletes coming in,” he said. “We’re getting a lot of track and volleyball athletes. We just started a partnership with NFL Females and Flags for female flag football in Cedar Rapids—they’ll be practicing and holding camps here.””We train about 30 athletes a week and have worked with over 100 athletes in the Cedar Rapids–Iowa City area,” Larkin said. “I started in Iowa City when I was 21, but we’ve since moved up here and have been working with kids ever since.”While Larkin enjoys coaching in many areas, he has a favorite.Larkin fulfills that mission at his gym, New Wave Performance, located at 5549 Sixth St. SW in Cedar Rapids.”I’ve learned I have a responsibility to be a light for others and help people stay on the right track,” he said. “Growing up without a brother, I see myself as a mentor for these kids, offering advice and guidance when they need it.Although Larkin primarily focuses on young, high school athletes, he’s noticed a significant shift in participation.”Having someone believe in you and say, ‘I know you’re trying to achieve this—here’s a plan, and I’m here to support you,’ gives kids faith. Sometimes, that’s all they need,” he said.
