Salem, Va. - Roanoke College head strength and conditioning coach Scott Bennett announced Thursday morning that the program has earned the distinguished NSCA Collegiate Program of Distinction honor. RC becomes just the third program in the history of the award, joining The University of Michigan and Springfield College.  

The Program of Distinction honors colleges and universities that meet criteria in multiple categories, including program supervision, coaching mentorship, strength and conditioning program administration, and facility management. The distinction showcases a school's commitment to its students' health, safety, and well-being while demonstrating the athletic program meets safety standards and adheres to the core principles of collegiate strength and conditioning.  

"We are very honored to receive this prestigious distinction. We are equally as proud to be the third program in the history of the distinction to receive the recognition and the second Division III program to earn this," said Coach Bennett. "As we start only our fourth year as a strength and conditioning program, we look forward to maintaining a high standard of excellence in supporting the goals of our student-athletes." 

Bennett has been a member of the NSCA since 1989 and currently serves as the Executive Committee Chair of the NSCA College Coaches Professional Development group, where he works closely with NSCA leadership to develop standards and promote the profession. During his time, Bennett has been recertified with distinctions numerous times, holds the highest level of the NSCA Coaches Registry (RSCC), and has received multiple nominations for the NSCA College Coach of the Year. He also served on the NSCA Conference Planning Committee and the NSCA College Coaches Professional Development Program while participating in the NSCA Lift Mentor Program.