Sept. 12, 2007
Norfolk, Va. - Paul Helsel, the former strength and conditioning coach at Southeast Missouri State has been named to the same position at Old Dominion University, Director of Athletics Dr. Jim Jarrett announced today.
"I'm extremely excited about the opportunity to come to Old Dominion and fortunate to be chosen for the position," said Helsel. ODU is committed to winning, has dedicated coaches and with the facility upgrades that they are making, it's obvious that athletics are a priority. I'm just looking forward to coming in and adding to the tradition of excellence."
Helsel spent the past six years at Southeast Missouri State as the head strength and conditioning coach where he was responsible for the design and implementation of strength programs for all varsity sports. Prior to that he served as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Marshall from 1998 to 2001, working primarily with men's and women's basketball, as well as with the Thundering Herd football team that won four consecutive MAC championships.
Helsel began his career as a student assistant, and then later served as a graduate assistant strength coach at The University of Alabama, where the Crimson Tide won the 1992 National Championship in football and four SEC West titles during his tenure.
The Jasper, Ala., native holds a bachelor of science degree in physical education and a master of arts degree in human performance studies, both from The University of Alabama. He is also a certified member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association, as well as a member of the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association.
Helsel is married to the former Mila Keeney.