STRENGTH TRAINING...
Strength training is of paramount importance in the development of athletes, but it must consist of more than just lifting weights without a specific purpose or plan.  The purpose of any training method or technique should be to prepare athletes for their ultimate best during competition - the ideal test of their abilities.  To achieve the best results (which for most of us is winning a championship), athletes should be participating in a planned-periodization program; complimented by sport- or phase-specific variations of training.  In almost every position, in every sport...how you develop as an athlete ultimately depends (in some way, shape, or form) on your absolute strength.  if you're not spending your off-season getting stronger and fitter from head-to-toe, it was an off-season wasted!

SPEED & AGILITY...
Speed is so vital to sports performance because you can't defend it without putting yourself (or your team) at a competitive disadvantage.  Every athlete can improve starting, stopping, and cutting speed, acceleration, and overall playing speed.  Although it is true that genetics is important, keep in mind that heredity only deals the cards; environment and training play the hand.  Regardless of genetic makeup, any athlete can get faster with proper training. Keep in mind the dynamics of not just your sport...but also the position you play within that sport.  With that said, even genetically gifted athletes will not reach their potential unless they do speed/agility training.