Sports have always played a central role in Tara Bennett’s life. From soccer and softball to track and field, she grew up immersed in athletics, ultimately becoming an NCAA Division I basketball player. Tara has been coaching in the area since 2017 and credits her upbringing in sports with shaping who she is both on and off the court. “Sports have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Competition has taught me leadership, work ethic, the importance of preparation, how to face adversity and most importantly, how to view failure as data, not a reflection of my self-worth,” she says.
These are some of the core principles she fosters in her newest venture, Strong Girls Training. The program is centered on the development of girls in grades 4th through 12th in strength, conditioning, athletic performance, wellness, leadership, and mental resilience across all sports, as well as non-athletes who want to prioritize health and fitness outside of sports. Tara says, “My coaching style is centered around motivation, progress tracking and innovative techniques to ensure my athletes succeed in reaching their performance goals both inside and out of the gym. I believe the mentorship and mental performance piece is what truly sets it apart.” At Strong Girls Training, Tara takes a holistic approach. She instills in the girls the importance of overall wellness and recovery, and teaches them the tools to care for their bodies and minds. “I’ve built a culture where I empower my girls to own their own journey and to feel comfortable asking questions so that they can build healthy lives, habits and bodies that continue to help them win at life at 20, 30 or 40 years old.”
Strong Girls Training’s impact has been significant, with parents noticing meaningful, positive changes in their daughters. Michelle Durkos, whose daughters participate in the group, says she has watched Tara inspire and motivate her girls, seeing their confidence, strength, growth, and maturity unfold. “Every teen needs a champion, someone who truly sees them, believes in them, and brings out their best. Tara has an innate ability to recognize the strengths within each girl and help those qualities shine. She has been such a gift and a blessing to my daughters. Having someone like her in their corner can make all the difference.”
Tara has experienced it all, from record-breaking championships to tough losses and everything in between. Thanks to the exceptional coaches and mentors who shaped her, she understands exactly what a girl needs to feel whole and powerful, inside and out. She brings all of that experience and heart to Strong Girls Training.
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Tara has an innate ability to recognize the strengths within each girl and help those qualities shine.