Steve and Jenni Padgett are the powerhouse duo behind Athletic Republic North Phoenix—a performance center built on science, heart, and a shared commitment to helping athletes and families thrive. Together, they’ve created a space where athletes of all ages and abilities can train with purpose, improve with confidence, and feel proud of their progress.

Steve leads with grit, structure, and a deep understanding of the athlete’s journey—because he’s lived it. A decorated distance runner, Steve was a two-time Ohio state champion in cross country (1999) and the 3200m (2000), setting a state meet record in the latter. He earned High School All-American honors after placing 9th at the 1999 Foot Locker Cross Country National Championships, and was invited to the prestigious Golden West Invitational—reserved for the nation’s top prep athletes—where he placed 3rd in the 3200m with a time of 8:54. That performance ranks among the fastest ever recorded by an Ohio high school athlete in the event. He went on to compete at the NCAA Division I level for Michigan State University, earning First Team All-Big Ten honors and being named Big Ten Freshman of the Year. He later transferred to Miami University (OH), earning three All-MAC honors and helping lead his team to a 17th-place finish at the NCAA Cross Country Championships—one of the best in program history. In recognition of his achievements, Steve was inducted into the Cincinnati Running Hall of Fame in 2014.

Beyond the track, Steve’s professional career has equipped him with the tools to run a high-performing center. He has spent years refining systems, leading cross-functional teams, and driving results through process improvement and executive communication. At Athletic Republic, he applies those same principles to build a structured, supportive environment where athletes thrive and families feel confident in the journey.

Jenni brings the heart, strategy, and storytelling that make the athlete experience unforgettable. A former high school basketball player, she understands the power of sports to build confidence, connection, and resilience. With nearly two decades in consumer insights and brand strategy, Jenni has helped national brands connect with real people—and now she’s using that expertise to build a performance center that speaks directly to families. She ensures every detail—from programming to communication—reflects the values of trust, growth, and excellence. As a mom and active community member, she’s passionate about creating a space where kids feel seen, supported, and inspired, and where adults can rediscover their strength in a welcoming, high-performance environment.

Since moving to Cave Creek in 2019 with their two children, Steve and Jenni have embraced the local community with purpose and pride. Their leadership is a blend of structure and empathy, performance and warmth. Athletic Republic North Phoenix isn’t just a training center—it’s a reflection of their shared values, their complementary strengths, and their unwavering belief in the power of growth.