Restoring the Heart of Youth Sports

ImpactFitness9 was founded to help student-athletes and families rediscover what youth sports are truly about — building character, discipline, and joy. The program’s mission is to challenge the growing commercialization of youth athletics and bring the focus back to development, inclusion, and integrity. “Youth sports should build character — not break spirits.”

Start Your Journey

Our Mission

At ImpactFitness9, our mission is to restore balance in youth sports by leading with Love, building real inner Power, and guiding athletes and families with Purpose — developing confident people, not just better players!

My Core Pillars

Love-Led Sports Culture

Coaching and mentoring rooted in care, connection, and respect — where relationships matter
more than ego or outcomes.

Balanced Athletic Development

Training the whole athlete with an emphasis on long-term health, confidence, and injury
prevention — not burnout or shortcuts.

Parent Education & Partnership

Helping parents turn sideline pressure into meaningful support that strengthens trust,
communication, and family connection.

Purpose-Driven Mentorship

Developing strength from within by grounding athletes and families in values, perspective, and a
purpose bigger than the game.

The Youth Sports Epidemic

In 2024, the youth sports industry generated over $38 billion — but participation dropped to historic lows. As costs rise, countless underprivileged children are left behind.

Impact Fitness 9 stands against this trend — creating programs that make sports accessible, affordable, and impactful again.

What We Offer

Coach John Knapp

Speaker | Educator | Youth Sports Advocate

Integrity in Sports

For schools, teams, and youth organizations.

Integrity in Sports

Guidance on supporting young athletes positively.

Integrity in Sports

Faith-inspired fitness and mindset sessions.

What People Are Saying About

Coach Knapp

Bob Michaels, Sports Broadcaster

“Coach Knapp’s life experiences are like a ballplayer who gets knocked down, dusts off, and keeps swinging in the face of adversity.”

Thomas Passmore, Former Player

He’s the kind of mentor every young athlete deserves — tough, loving, and deeply authentic.

James Malinchak – Featured on ABC's Secret Millionaire

“If you’re ready to positively transform your life, then read and absorb the strategies in this brilliant book by Coach John Knapp. John truly cares about helping others and his ideas will make a positive difference in your life!”

Laura Acuna-Maldonado, PhD, Cornell University

“Your talk at George M. Diven Elementary reminded us why we coach — to build people, not just players.”

Travis Barnes: Co-Owner ImpactX Performance

“Broken Foundation by Coach John M. Knapp is an insightful and impactful guide for anyone looking to strengthen their personal and professional foundations. The book masterfully combines real-life stories, practical strategies, and motivational lessons to emphasize the importance of mastering the basics before pursuing greater achievements. What sets this book
apart is its focus on personal accountability and resilient leadership, making it relevant for athletes, business leaders, and anyone committed to self-improvement. Coach Knapp’s relatable writing and deep understanding of overcoming adversity make it both an inspiring and practical read.

Highly recommended for those looking to rebuild or reinforce their “foundation” to achieve long-term success.”

Brian Ellison

I’ve known John Knapp since 2010 when I started teaching at Northside-Blodgett Middle School. In that time I have seen him as a 6th grade teacher, a Physical Education teacher, an Administrator, a Coach, and a small business owner. How cool now that I had the opportunity to support him in his newest role; motivational speaker. John is all about doing what is best for kids and this latest venture stays true to his mission. Congrats John!

Work With Coach Knapp

Protecting confidence and mental health Speaking Events

Inspiring, research-backed talks for schools, parent groups, and community organizations.

Topics Include:

✔ Restoring balance in youth sports
✔ Protecting confidence and mental health
✔ Building resilient student-athletes
✔ Strengthening parent–athlete relationships

Perfect for:
School assemblies • Parent nights • Athletic banquets • Community events

Parent Workshops

Interactive sessions that give parents practical tools they can use immediately.

Participants learn how to:

✔ Encourage without adding pressure
✔ Communicate effectively after games
✔ Recognize burnout and emotional stress
✔ Support long-term athlete development

Student-Athlete Seminars

Age-appropriate sessions focused on building inner strength and confidence.

Athletes learn:

✔ How to handle mistakes and setbacks
✔ Mental focus and resilience
✔ How to separate identity from performance
✔ Leadership and teamwork skills

Coach & Program Consultations

Support for schools, teams, and organizations looking to improve their culture.

Consultations focus on:

✔ Creating healthier team environments
✔ Reducing pressure-driven burnout
✔ Building confidence-centered coaching strategies
✔ Integrating Love • Power • Purpose into programs

Family & Program Resources

Educational tools designed to support families beyond the event.

✔ Parent handbooks
✔ Workshop materials
✔ Follow-up resources for schools and teams