HAYDEN — Conner Cain understands the role sports can play in a young person’s life better than most.

Both of his parents were once physical education teachers, and Cain was a multi-sport athlete himself up to the collegiate level before becoming a strength and conditioning coach for college athletic programs throughout the country.

Taking a job as ETS Performance’s lead performance specialist was a no-brainer.

“This is something I’m really passionate about, and I felt really strongly about bringing ETS here,” Cain said.

ETS Performance, which recently opened a facility at 125 W. Lions Way, offers individualized training programs for athletes as young as 8 years old up to the professional level.

Training programs are tailored to the athlete’s specific goals, which are usually contingent on their sport or sports of choice.

While ETS Performance has over 40 locations throughout the Midwest, the Hayden facility is the first to open in the western part of the country.

Cain has teamed up with Logan Kendall, a Spokane native who will be bringing ETS to his hometown with the opening of another facility in the fall.

So far, the two trainers are working with 35 local athletes of various ages. Athletes train in group settings while also following their individual training plans.

But some training goals can’t be easily put down on paper.

“I tell parents all the time ... if they can walk out of here as more confident people, then we’ve done our job,” Cain said.

The young athletes are also acquiring life skills, including following through on commitments, as they progress through their programs.

“It’s an investment in yourself,” Cain added.

Cain and Kendall also hope to serve as role models for the athletes they work with.

“Whatever these kids need ... we’ve kind of already been where they’re at,” Cain said.

Athlete evaluations are free at ETS Performance, and program prices vary per athlete. 

To schedule an evaluation, visit https://etsperformance.com/getstarted.