David Akao

David Akao knows what it means to be the underdog.​His athletic journey wasn't built on having every advantage. It was built on showing up, putting in the work, and believing there was more in him—even when the opportunity wasn't guaranteed.​After walking on at Coffeyville Community College, David worked his way to a football scholarship. He went on to play linebacker at Friends University, earning All-Conference honors while completing his degree in Health & Physical Education.​That experience shaped more than his career. It shaped his purpose.David discovered firsthand what can happen when an athlete has the right guidance, the right environment, and someone willing to believe in their potential. He wanted to create that same opportunity for others.

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That's the heart of NPWR Training.

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Today, David serves as Head Athletic Performance Coach at Newman University and has built his expertise as a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA and a Level 1 Weightlifting Coach through USA Weightlifting. He has trained athletes at every stage—from youth and high school competitors to collegiate athletes—along with older adults and special populations.

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But credentials aren't what drive his work. 

People do.

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David believes every athlete has another level within them. His job is to help them find it, develop it, and have the confidence to pursue it.

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NPWR was created from that belief:

Empowering the underdogs to achieve their full potential through unwavering support and guidance.

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Because sometimes, all an athlete needs is someone to see what they can't see yet—and a coach willing to help them become it.​