About RAPTOR

 

Developing the Athlete. Building the Individual.

 

I’m Craig Williams, founder of RAPTOR Athlete Academy, a Royal Army Physical Training Corps Instructor and father of two young athletes.

 

My aim is to help young people develop the physical abilities, confidence and positive training habits that support their sporting ambitions.

 

Whether a young person is already competing or discovering what they enjoy, my aim is to give them purposeful coaching, appropriate challenges and encouragement to keep improving.

 

Why I created RAPTOR

 

Sport has been a major part of my life-as an athlete, a coach and a parent. As a former semi-professional middle-

distance runner who represented the South of England,I understand the commitment involved in pursuing performance. As a father, I also value enjoyment, confidence and helping children develop a positive relationship with sport.

 

RAPTOR brings those priorities together: high standards of coaching in an environment where young people of all abilities feel welcome.

 

The experience behind the academy

 

My Army career spans more than 20 years, including 15 years directing sport, physical development, health and adventure training across multiple units, including the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Alongside this, I bring academic training in strength and conditioning and sport management, plus coaching experience across athletics, football and tennis.

That background shapes my approach to planning, progression and understanding the person I am coaching.

 

My coaching approach

 

Every young athlete arrives with different experience, confidence and goals. My approach is to understand their starting point and help them make steady, meaningful progress.

Sessions will emphasise sound movement skills, clear explanations and challenges suited to each athlete’s stage of development. Effort, curiosity and consistency will be valued alongside performance.

I want young people to understand what they are doing, recognise their progress and enjoy coming back.

 

Qualifications and professional background

 

• First-class BSc (Hons) in Strength and Conditioning
• Master’s degree in Sport Management
• Royal Army Physical Training Corps Instructor (RAPTCI)
• CIMSPA-registered Level 3 Personal Trainer
• Coaching qualifications in athletics, football and tennis
• Mental resilience training
• Les Mills GRIT Instructor

 

I want every young person who trains at RAPTOR to leave stronger, more capable and more confident in themselves. Whatever their starting point, my commitment is to challenge them, support them and help them take pride in what they can achieve—in sport and in life.

 

 

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