John Thomas
Strength and Conditioning
In his 20th year at Penn State, the efforts of John Thomas have made a significant impact in the squad's
overall strength and conditioning habits. His strenuous regimen throughout the year is most evident
during "winning time," as the Nittany Lions' conditioning has helped them secure or win many games in
the fourth quarter during his tenure. Penn State has won 15 games decided by 10 points or less the past
six seasons. His efforts were recognized with his 2002 selection as Master of Strength and Conditioning
Coach, a title held by fewer than 30 people worldwide. He also was chosen the 1997 National Collegiate
Strength and Conditioning Coach-of-the-Year. Thomas spent two seasons at the U.S. Military Academy,
the second as the head of the strength and conditioning program in 1990-91. A Muskingum College
graduate, he started at defensive tackle for two years and at offensive guard for two seasons and was an
All-Ohio Valley Athletic Conference first-team pick and a second-team Division II All-American. He was
inducted into the Muskingum Athletic Hall of Fame in October 2008. Thomas spent two years as a
graduate assistant football and strength coach at Toledo. At the University of the South (1986-89), he
coached football and served as a strength coach in football and baseball.
Coach and Staff Listing
|
