Nick Mullins: Making Major Gains at Signal Mountain
(Sept. 5, 2024)-- Nick Mullins, a dedicated strength and conditioning coach, adaptive P.E. teacher, and defensive line coach for the football team at Signal Mountain Middle/High School, has quickly become an essential part of the school’s community. Now in his second year at SMMHS, with nearly 20 years of teaching and coaching experience, Mullins channels his passion for health and personal development in every aspect of his role.
Originally from Virginia and a graduate of Virginia Tech, Mullins came to Chattanooga with a desire to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives. He is devoted to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or ability, feels empowered and supported in their fitness journey. “I teach boys, girls, everyone–all with different ranges of abilities. Some student’s work may need to be heavily modified whether it be from injury or something they’ve dealt with their whole life,” he explains. Workouts are designed on an individual basis, with modifications available to suit each student’s needs. His goal is to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and confident. “I don’t only have athletes coming to my table. I have everyone coming to my table. That’s the beauty of what I get to do every day.”
Mullins’ approach to fitness and health is about more than just physical gains. He sees the weight room as a place for students to develop mental strength as well. “I found something in the weight room that helped me get through a lot of tough times,” Mullins said. “It has given me mental clarity and even helped me spiritually. For me, it's medicine.” Mullins highlights the importance of students using their time in his classes to learn consistency, resilience, confidence, and more.
A favorite of Mullins’ day is being with his adaptive P.E. class. Here, Mullins works mostly with students in the Exceptional Education program. “We teach them how to use their body. We work on balance, coordination, things of that nature,” Mullins said. These important motor skills are often camouflaged through entertaining activities and games.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Mullin’s job is witnessing his students progress. “A kid will come in saying ‘I can’t do this,’ and then a month down the road, they’re knocking it out.” For Mullins, failure is simply part of the learning process. “Let go. It’s okay to be weak. It’s okay to fail. Because it can only go up after that,” he advised. With an emphasis on the importance of self-growth, Mullins wants his students to see working out as something that has a positive impact on their lives–not just for vanity, but for their overall well-being.
Outside of work, Mullins finds joy in spending time with his dogs, Rose and Macho Man, and with the people he loves. He enjoys taking in the music at concerts or simply having a casual conversation with friends. However, his weekends are most often reserved for recovery and preparation for the week ahead.
In just two years at Signal Mountain Middle/High School, Coach Nick Mullins has made a lasting impact, helping students of all abilities find strength, confidence, and joy in their fitness and health journey. His dedication and passion for his students and craft are evident, making him a true asset to the Signal Mountain community.