Caleb Grummet ’15, head strength coach, has trained The University of Olivet student-athletes for more than eight years, starting as a volunteer before progressing to assistant wrestling coach, adjunct instructor and finally head strength coach. He previously served as a United States Marine and had a successful career as a mixed martial arts fighter and boxer, including fighting on HBO against former Baltimore Ravens safety, Tom Zbikowski, and on the Floyd Mayweather undercard in Las Vegas. It was during these experiences that Coach Grummet learned the value of personal growth and the importance of building relationships with others who will support you in reaching goals.
Now as head strength coach, Coach Grummet shares his experiences with students, especially his belief to constantly learn and grow.
Why do you love The University of Olivet?
The thing that I admire most about The University of Olivet is the students. They are committed to excellence and look to continually encourage one another to do their best. It is like being amongst a large family.
What is your favorite OC memory?
Aside from all the great memories teaching and coaching athletes, the most rewarding memories I have from Olivet are watching student-athletes increase their overall potential. I have witnessed individuals develop strength, character and perseverance through the ups and downs of their college experience. Through this development, they have found great success after graduation. Every so often I receive an email or letter from a former student saying how much I was a part in helping with their transformation. It is these experiences that show me I am in the right place.
Where do your passions for working with college students and strength and conditioning stem from?
Being a developer of strength is not only my passion, but it is my God given purpose in life. I will never take that lightly. I love all of the athletes at Olivet like my own, and I develop more than just their strength. I develop their mental and spiritual understanding in hopes that after they leave college, they will become pillars of the community. I want people to recognize the work ethic and character of the athletes I train so they leave a positive footprint of being an Olivet graduate wherever they go. My job means more than a paycheck – it means a brighter future.
What is your training style like?
I have taken my many years of experience as an athlete, Marine and father to mold my training style. Besides motivation and high energy, love is the greatest thing we as strength coaches can give our athletes. The greatest form of love comes from developing others through discipline and encouragement. To develop athletes, you must apply pressure to get the desired results, much like a diamond. The Bible explains in Psalms that God, the ultimate strength coach, will put us through trials to produce greatness. Each struggle often ends in receiving blessings and leads to victory, so I call my method the Psalms principle.
What’s the average day in your role, or some of the unique things you are responsible for?
I am up at 4 a.m. to prepare my meals, have my morning coffee and do Bible lessons. I come to campus around 5 a.m. and begin preparation for the day’s training sessions. I meet with interns at this time to help them gain knowledge on the day’s agenda and build strong working relationships with them. I usually stay busy with team training until 6 p.m. When I am not in the weight room I will usually be found in Mott working with the Health and Human Performance Department teaching classes or meeting with my mentors. If I get any available free time, I use it to study or go through my own strength training sessions.
Why do you encourage students to attend OC?
The University of Olivet is a place that is known for developing individuals into great and innovative thinkers. By choosing Olivet, students are put on the fast track to achieving success.
What advice do you share with students?
Never back down from a challenge. Embrace the grind and reap in the success. Like a diamond, you are transformed from the pressure.
What is an interesting or little-known fact about yourself?
I was asked to be part of the AMC television series “Low Winter Sun.” I had a small role as a boxer in the fifth episode. It was one of the most unique opportunities I have ever had.
In addition, I am currently finishing up my master’s degree in management with a concentration in organizational leadership at Wilmington University. I have the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the Level One Strength Coach Certification with USA Weightlifting. Recently, I have also been doing training podcasts for Strength Coach Select.
Learn more about The University of Olivet and awesome opportunities for student-athletes – like training with Coach Grummet – by visiting campus or attending an upcoming admissions event. For questions, contact the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.