T.J.'s News - Bob's Corner

It's the early 90s... 93 roughly. I had just opened for business in my small gym (The Underground).

In walked three young High School boys, roughly 17 years old. They were curious and the look on their faces did nothing to hide that fact. Of the three, T.J. Ball was one of those boys. With a bit of chit chat, we discovered their Football Coach was an old friend of mine. Soon all three were joining.

T.J. weighed about 155 at the time but could manage a 300 pound single on the flat bench. After a few weeks, it was obvious T.J. was serious about his training. But his previous strength training left much to be desired if he would continue gaining and avoid injury. So the process of change began. Not always comfortable with the changes but always willing to adjust, T.J.'s gains came at a steady and satisfying pace for years to come. His natural strength and ability to grasp a specific strength building concept of a multi joint training philosophy, told me he would someday reach a level of athletic superiority far beyond that of his Peers. Soon students and friends noticed as all of this unfolded. My membership was growing and I could see it was largely T.J.'s doing. So I told him, “For every member you add to the roster, I'll discount $10 from your Monthly dues". Long story short... he had so many kids joining that I couldn't keep track of the discounts he had coming, so I just said “Screw it, work out for free from now on”. In the coming years, T.J. won State lifting titles and even set a few State Teen records. Words can't describe the drive he had as a teen, (And still has). T.J. always carried a bit of doubt about his own virtues but everyone in the gym knew he was special. Not just physically but in every aspect of his humble personality and willingness to help others. I can honestly say, T.J. had as much, if not more to do with the success of that gym than myself. To this day, T.J. and I are as close as friends can be.

The Underground Gym has been closed for 9 years. T.J. trains for a more serious venue now. Yes, powerlifting laid the foundation but T.J. made it work by consistency and always taking each set to the limit without sacrificing form. Now an up-and-coming MMA Star for MMA Big Show, both his athletic ability and humble personality will certainly take him beyond his wildest dreams, but a few of his friends won't be surprised one bit. Certainly not me.

Oh yes. I almost forgot. T.J. eventually benched 605 at a regulation contest in Circleville, Ohio.

- Bob Shaefer