WICHITA, Kan. – Kate Jones has been named the new men's and women's powerlifting head coach at Friends University, VP of Athletics and Strategic Expansion Dr. Rob Ramseyer has announced.

"The growth of our powerlifting program has been tremendous," said Ramseyer.  "Coach (Joe) Belden has done a fantastic job building the program both in size and performance.  It is now at a point where it needs its own dedicated coach and we are ecstatic that Kate has accepted this position.  She brings a strong background and connections in the powerlifting world.  Most of all, she is a perfect fit for our mission and will have a positive impact on our student-athletes."

A guru in fitness and training, Jones comes to Friends with experience as the head coach/owner of Foundation Fitness, LLC.  With this venture, Jones has operated her own business since 2020 and provided online programming for powerlifters along with personal training services.

From 2015-20, Jones served as a personal trainer for Optimal Performance, where she provided powerlifting programming and was a program coordinator for a large all-women's bootcamp program.

"I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity to work in a Christ-centered community with kids that are here to grow and get better mentally, physically, and spiritually," said Jones. "God truly has worked everything for good and I can't wait to support this team as we strive for excellence!"

Highly qualified in the powerlifting field, Jones' certifications include the USA Powerlifting Kansas State Chair, USA Powerlifting Referee, USA Powerlifting Club Coach, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and a Precision Nutrition – Level 1 Coach.

Jones earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Wichita State University in 2011.