The Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year Award is awarded to the coach whose influence within his or her assigned tactical (military, law enforcement, fire and rescue) setting exceeds that of peers. Achieving this influence can be the result of one or multiple coaching related accomplishments such as but not limited to measurable performance improvements or injury reduction, program creation, advancement through innovation, and other initiatives that enhance wellness, health, and performance at the local level.

Meet the 2026 NSCA Peer & Special Recognition Awards recipients, who will be recognized for excellence across the profession at the NSCA National Conference.

Show your breadth of knowledge, skills, and abilities by obtaining additional NCCA-accredited certifications

This is the NSCA’s Coaching Podcast, where strength and conditioning coaches share their experience, lessons learned, and advice about how to thrive in a highly competitive profession.

Strength coaches make up the foundation of the NSCA since its beginnings more than four decades ago and continue to drive our purpose and passion. Learn more about obtaining the acclaimed CSCS® certification, gain knowledge through NSCA's peer-reviewed journals, and get inspired by NSCA's coaching podcast. From tools and resources to thousands of top professionals across the globe, you've got the support and the credibility of an association dedicated to your profession.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is proud to announce the recipients of the organization’s 2021 Coach of the Year Awards: Professional Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year: Paul Goodman, MS, CSCS, RSCC*E College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year: Brian Thompson, PhD, CSCS,*D, RSCC*E Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year: Andrew Stocks, MS, CSCS, NSCA-CPT

Are you looking for research-based infographics you can use to educate your clients and athletes? If you’re an NSCA member you can download these resources below, along with referenced discussion points.

This is Season 9 of the NSCA’s Coaching Podcast, where strength and conditioning coaches share their experience, lessons learned, and advice about how to thrive in a highly competitive profession.