By C. Brandon Chapman, College of Education
PULLMAN, Wash. – A strength and conditioning minor will return to Washington State University in the fall, offering kinesiology students the opportunity to work with WSU student athletes.
“This program will not only offer a professional experience for our students, but also additional professional guidance to all our student athletes,” said David Lang, director of strength and conditioning in WSU Athletics, who will oversee the minor.
The College of Education minor will expand student opportunities, said Katy Pietz, the college’s clinical coordinator for athletic training.
“The hands-on aspect is so important for them,” she said. “The students will be able to engage in professional interactions with strength and conditioning coaches and with other certified professionals in the field, including athletic trainers, physical therapists and nutritionists.”
“It gives students an opportunity to be part of a Division I program, be exposed to the highest athletic talent on the collegiate level and operate in one of the elite conferences in this country,” said Lang. “We will be looking for highly motivated, responsible young professionals that want to pursue a career in the field.”
The minor was discontinued at WSU years ago. In its absence, Lang helped oversee an informal volunteer program. But it was time to resurrect it: “The evolving world of sports drove the need to bring it back,” he said.
“I’m thrilled we can keep building a rapport,” Pietz said of collaboration between the college and athletics. “This gives students a chance to get their feet wet and learn from professionals before getting into the field themselves.”
Contacts:
Katy Pietz, WSU College of Education, katy.pietz@wsu.edu, 509-335-6230
David Lang, WSU Athletics, david.lang@wsu.edu, 509-335-1985