High Demand Training Academy

MEET COACH ROD

Rodney “Coach Rod” Smith

Founder & Executive Director, High Demand Training Academy
NFL Veteran | Community Mentor | Youth Development Leader

Rodney “Coach Rod” Smith is a quiet champion with a powerful story. He is a record-breaking Division I athlete, former NFL running back, and Type 1 diabetic warrior. He defied the odds through discipline, faith, and resilience. Despite two ACL injuries and lifelong health challenges, he rose to be ranked among the Top 25 running backs in the country out of high school, earning him a scholarship to the University of Minnesota, and a roster spot with the Carolina Panthers.

Rodney began his journey in Clayton County at Mundy’s Mill High School, where he earned All-State honors in football and baseball. At the University of Minnesota, he had a legendary career as a four-year starter. He's etched throughout the record book in Minnesota's long football history. Rodney is the current record holder for All-Purpose yards at the University of Minnesota, proving his versatility with 5,444 yards. He ranks 3rd all time in rushing yards, piling up 4,122 yards. He was also named Academic All-Big Ten, graduating with a degree in Youth Studies, cementing his commitment to both performance and purpose.

Now, as the Founder and Executive Director of High Demand Training Academy, Coach Rod leads a movement rooted in faith, mental adaptability, physical discipline, and leadership development. Through group/private training, scout readiness, fitness coaching, and mentorship, he empowers our community to rise beyond their limits.

Coach Rod is a mentor and performance coach, supported by his father and lifelong role model. Coach Patrick Smith is a retired educator, coach and community leader who has shaped athletes for decades.

Under Coach Rod’s leadership, High Demand has impacted dozens of athletes and families through training, scholarships, partnerships, and clinics. Backed by the You Matter To Me Foundation (501c3), the academy invites donors, schools, and sponsors to invest in a model that is relatable, scalable, and transformational.

“How you start as isn’t what you become. When you think in High Demand, you transform.”

Contact Coach Rod: coachrod@highdemand.net

Live in High Demand. Give in High Demand. Think in High Demand. Train in High Demand

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person!

We love our customers, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.

High Demand Training Academy

Email: coachrod@highdemand.net coachtank@highdemand.net or info.hdtraining@gmail.com Contact: 470-574-0026

Hours

Mon	09:00 am – 05:30 pm
Tue	By Appointment
Wed	09:00 am – 05:30 pm
Thu	09:00 am – 05:30 pm
Fri	By Appointment
Sat	09:00 am – 01:00 pm
Sun	Closed

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info.hdtraining@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is High Demand Training Academy?

High Demand Training Academy is a fitness community designed to help you achieve your goals through various workout plans. We also offer leadership development programs to help grow mentally and emotionally.

What type of workouts can I expect from High Demand Training Academy?

Our workouts vary based on your goals, but may include sport specific development, speed/agility training, strength training, fitness training, and leadership development.

What kind of nutrition coaching is included?

Our nutrition coaching focuses on creating healthy habits and making sustainable lifestyle changes. We do not provide specific meal plans, but instead work with you to develop a personalized nutrition plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Cancellations & Credits

1. Notice Required:
Participants must provide at least 24 hours’ notice via phone, text, or email to cancel or reschedule a session.

2. No Refund Policy:
HDTA does not offer refunds for canceled sessions, missed classes, or dropped programs. However, a credit will be issued for use toward a future session, camp, or service.

3. Credit Details:

Credits must be used within 90 days from the date of issue unless otherwise approved.
Credits are non-transferable and may only be used by the originally registered athlete.

4. No-Shows & Late Cancellations:
If a participant does not show up or cancels with less than 24 hours’ notice, no credit will be issued unless the absence qualifies under special circumstances (see below).

⚠️ Special Circumstances

In cases of verified injury, illness (with doctor’s note), family emergency, or other approved hardship, HDTA may issue a partial credit or extend usage time for future programs.

All special circumstance requests must be submitted in writing and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

This policy is enforced to maintain fairness for all clients and ensure program sustainability. Thank you for understanding and partnering with us in excellence.