In our first ever courses offered in Ireland, we are working together with Antrim GAA and VALD to present a unique course dedicated to team and field sport speed and acceleration. The course is directed at the needs of coaches, physical preparation specialists, fitness trainers and rehabilitation professionals.

The presentation materials and practical sessions represent both conventional and innovative strategies for modern sporting challenges. Because preparation times are shrinking and sport specific demands are increasing, athletes are suffering from a lack of general preparation inputs for both performance and health. We will identify key linear acceleration technical progressions that can be perfected in preparatory phases, evolving into maximum velocity work, multi-directional movements and repeat acceleration refinements. Key planning and periodization issues will be covered for the demands of team and field sports.

We will also discuss key protocols for return to sport, particularly lower body soft-tissue and joint injuries. A sprint based approach will be covered in detail through lectures and practical sessions.

The course includes elements of all of Derek Hansen’s Running Mechanics courses including Level 1 Foundations, Level 3 MED and the 10×10 Master Course. Notes will be provided in advance for review by attendees. Adequate time will also be provided for Q&A and discussion.
 

 
Pricing for this course is 199£ ($265 US) for early registration – prior to April 26, 2026. Registration after this date will be set at 249£ ($329 US). Please contact Derek M. Hansen at derek@runningmechanics.com for more information.
 
 
This course is a full day event and will include a brief lunch/snack break:
– Course start time: 10:00am
– Break: 1:00pm – 30 min
– Course end time: 4:00pm
 

What’s included:
– Full course notes and slides – (PDF copy sent in advance)
– Opportunity to purchase RunningMechanics.com online courses at a significant discount
– Free eBook on the “10×10 Repeat Sprint Protocol for Performance and Recovery” for those who register before April 26, 2026
 
Course outline below:
The seminar will include a balanced mix of presentations and practical demonstrations that all attendees will be encouraged to participate in or observe. Interactive discussion is encouraged. Time for questions will be provided during breaks and following the seminar.

1. Introduction
• Key Issues Facing Modern Team Sport Athletes
• Shrinking Preparation and Development Windows
• Training Load Management – More or Less?

2. The Role of GPP in Setting a Foundation
• Key Goals in General Physical Preparation for Field Sport Athletes (Rugby, GAA, Hurling, Football, etc.)
• Sprint Drill Basics – What Moves the Needle?
• Implementing the 10×10 Repeat Acceleration Protocol
• Supportive Programming for Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention

3. From Early Acceleration to Maximum Velocity
• Short-to-Long Progression Basics for Team Sport
• High-Low Microcycle Planning: Off-Season vs In-Season
• Developing a Speed Reserve for Durability
• Integrating Change-of-Direction Work as Part of a Speed Program
• Tempo Running Guidelines for Work Capacity and Recovery

4. Return-to-Play and Rehabilitation
• Progressions of Work: A Conceptual Model
• Hamstring RTP Model
• Adapting the Model to Other Injuries
– Knee / ACL
– Hip Flexor / Adductor
– Achilles / Calf / Foot
– Upper Body and Extremity

5. Concluding Remarks
• Key Takeaways
• Q& A

 
To download the complete event flyer, click on the link below:

Speed Development Seminar May 2026 – University of Ulster

 
For any questions regarding course content or applicability to your practice, please contact Derek Hansen via email: derek@runningmechanics.com
 
 
Where:
 
Ulster University Sports Village – Jordanstown Indoor
Shore Rd, Newtownabbey, BT37 0QB

 
Antrim GAA Contact:
Brendan Murphy
Head of Athletic Performance: Antrim GAA
email: brendanmurphy1986@gmail.com
Website: Antrim GAA