Noah Spielman, Associate Director of Football Sports Performance at Ohio University, is urging coaches, athletes, and sports professionals to prioritise well-being and personal growth alongside athletic performance. In a newly released interview, Spielman shares his career story and stresses the importance of focusing on athletes as people, not just players.
“Strength and conditioning is about more than just lifting weights,” Spielman says in the interview. “It’s about mentoring athletes, helping them grow, and preparing them for life beyond the game.”
Throughout the interview, Spielman highlights how his coaching philosophy has been shaped by his varied experiences, from working as a scouting intern with the Minnesota Vikings to training future military officers at the United States Air Force Academy. His message is clear: lasting success in sports comes from a foundation of character, mentorship, and balanced living.
According to the NCAA, around 37% of college athletes report experiencing mental health concerns, while over 50% say they struggle with balancing academics, athletics, and personal life. Spielman believes coaches can play a key role in reversing these trends.
“I tell our players all the time—who you are outside of football matters,” he says. “Having hobbies, family time, and other passions makes you not only a healthier person, but often a better athlete too.”
Spielman also advocates for creating environments where athletes can speak openly and build relationships with coaches. “Trust isn’t built through shouting or punishment, it’s built by showing you care,” he explains.
He credits his own career success to staying focused on personal connections and continuous learning. “Whether it’s at Northern Arizona, with the Vikings, or here at Ohio University, it’s always been about people first,” he says. “The habits we build off the field shape who we become on it.”
Spielman’s commitment to athlete well-being extends beyond his coaching role. He supports charitable causes like Young Life, 4Paws for Ability, and the Stefanie Spielman Breast Cancer Research Fund, organisations that focus on mentorship, support, and community impact.
Call to Action:
Spielman encourages athletes, parents, and coaches alike to start small by having open conversations, supporting hobbies beyond sport, and looking at success through a wider lens.
“You don’t need a coaching title to make a difference,” he says. “Listen to the athletes in your life. Support them as whole people. Encourage them to find balance and build habits that will last long after the final whistle.”
About Noah Spielman
Noah Spielman is a respected leader in football sports performance and strength coaching. He currently serves as Associate Director of Football Sports Performance at Ohio University. A former college football player at Toledo and Wheaton College, Noah holds a master’s degree from Northern Arizona University. His career includes roles with the Minnesota Vikings, the United States Air Force Academy, and several collegiate programmes. Known for his people-first approach, he is passionate about mentorship, athlete well-being, and helping others grow on and off the field.
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
Contact: info@noahspielmanfootball.com
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Website: noahspielmanfootball.com
