Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Schoonover.
Hi Jonathan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey started with a love for sports and movement from an early age. I went on to play college football at Missouri Western University, which opened the door for me to compete at the professional level in Arena Football with the Arkansas Twisters for six seasons. It was during that time that I discovered my passion for athletic performance—not just as an athlete, but as someone who could help others train, grow, and succeed.
I earned my Bachelor’s in Physical Education and Health and later completed my Master’s in Athletic Administration. Along the way, I became a Certified Master Personal Trainer and had the privilege of working in a high-level sports performance gym in Arkansas. There, I trained elite athletes including NFL players, D1 standouts, and rising stars from a variety of sports.
Over the past 15 years, I’ve also been a full-time educator and coach, teaching PE and coaching football, basketball, and track at several schools and universities. Coaching has allowed me to combine my knowledge, experience, and love for mentoring young people.
Now, I’m continuing my teaching career, but I’ve also made it my mission to impact even more athletes in Warrensburg and the surrounding areas. Whether it’s helping a high school athlete get to the next level, or supporting a weekend warrior chasing personal goals, I’m here to serve. That’s what drives me—seeing others succeed and knowing I had a part in their journey.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building SWAG Sports Performance has come with its fair share of challenges, just like any meaningful journey.
One of the biggest hurdles early on was simply getting the word out. Even with years of experience and a strong track record, stepping out to start something of your own requires building trust in a new way. People need to see what you’re about, understand your vision, and believe in the results you can deliver. That takes time and consistency.
Another challenge has been balancing my full-time teaching and family responsibilities with launching and growing the business. I’m passionate about both, but it requires a lot of discipline, long hours, and constant prioritizing to make sure every athlete I work with gets 100%.
There’s also the challenge of meeting athletes and families where they are. Everyone has different goals, schedules, and commitment levels—so creating personalized programs while still building a unified brand and system has taken some trial and error.
But every struggle has made the business stronger. I’ve learned that showing up, delivering real results, and being genuinely invested in each athlete’s success will always rise above the noise. The journey is not always easy, but it’s been worth every step. And we’re just getting started.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At SWAG Sports Performance, my work is all about developing athletes — not just physically, but mentally, Spiritually and competitively. I specialize in sports performance training, which includes speed and agility development, strength and power training, injury prevention, and the positive mind set, for athletes of all levels. From youth athletes to pros, I tailor every program to meet their specific needs, goals, and sport demands.
What I’m most known for is creating real, measurable results. I’ve had the honor of training Olympians, NFL athletes, Division I scholarship winners, and high-level performers in sports like football, basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, and more. But I’m just as proud of the weekend warriors, high school athletes, and everyday individuals who walk in with a goal and leave better than they came.
One thing that truly sets me apart is my background — I’ve lived both sides. I’ve been the athlete under pressure. I’ve trained at the highest level. I’ve coached in schools, taught in classrooms, and worked in elite sports performance facilities. I bring all of that experience into every session.
But more than that, it’s the connection I build with my athletes. I care about their goals like they’re my own. I push them, guide them, and hold them accountable — and I celebrate their wins just as hard. At SWAG, it’s not about hype or shortcuts. It’s about mastery, consistency, and the long game.
What I’m most proud of is building a culture where athletes feel seen, challenged, and supported. We’re not just building stronger bodies — we’re building confident, resilient people ready to perform at their best in sports and in life.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
One of the best pieces of advice I can give for finding a mentor or building a strong network is simple, show up, stay curious, and be willing to learn. Early in my career, I sought out coaches, trainers, and professionals who were better than me in certain areas, and I wasn’t afraid to ask questions, observe their process, and offer help in any way I could. A good mentor relationship often starts with respect and humility, not just looking for what you can get, but what you can give.
I’ve found that relationships built on trust and authenticity go a long way. Some of the most valuable mentors I’ve had weren’t necessarily people with big names, they were people who shared knowledge generously and pushed me to grow. Those relationships usually formed through shared work, on the field, in the gym, or through coaching circles.
One thing that’s worked well for me is staying connected to the community. Whether it’s coaching clinics, conferences, local events, or even just talking shop with other professionals, putting yourself in those environments is key. Also, never underestimate the value of former teammates, coaches, or colleagues, those connections often come full circle in unexpected ways.
Lastly, I’d say be a mentor. The more you give back, the more you attract the kind of people who want to build something meaningful with you. Whether you’re training a young athlete or talking to a new coach, you’re building a network every day just by showing up and serving with purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://swagsportsperformance.ppcbrands.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/swagsportsperformance
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16svdMPEP6/
