MSCC Class of 2002

John Thomas

Director of Strength and Conditioning, Penn State University

John Thomas has a low profile on game-day but his high profile position as strength and conditioning coach is an important element of the Nittany Lions' football success.

John, in his 11th season as a member of the Penn State football family, is front and center in the weight room where he monitors the team's strength and conditioning activities. John'?s experience, his desire for improvement, and his rapport with the student-athletes have made him a popular and vital friend amongst the staff and players.

The Professional Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society recognized John for his efforts with his selection as the 1997 National Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coach-of-the-Year.

John arrived at Penn State in 1992 after two years as a strength coach at the US Military Academy, first as an assistant and then as the head of Army's strength and conditioning program.

A graduate of Muskingum College in New Concord, OH, John was a four-year starter for the Fighting Muskies. He played defensive tackle for two years and offensive guard for two more.

John spent two years as a graduate assistant football and strength coach at Toledo. He moved to the University of the South in Sewanee, TN, where he coached football and served as strength training assistant in football, and head strength coach for baseball.

John arrived at West Point in 1989 to serve as head strength and conditioning coach for the Academy's comprehensive strength program.

JT and his wife, Kelly, have three children: Jacob (8), Logan (6), and Grace (2).