LA MIRADA --- Biola Athletics has added to its stellar personnel with a new Director of Sport Performance. Dr. Bethany Miller announced the hiring of Matt Larsen, who will start in La Mirada in early July.

"Matt is a great fit for Biola Athletics," said Director of Sport Medicine, John Wiese. "In addition to his strong professional résumé, he brings the desire to see our student athletes grow in all aspects, including their spiritual development. He also has a history of engaging with the entire athletic department by supporting teams in a variety of ways, on and off the field of play."

As the Director of Sport Performance, Larsen will lead the charge in the strength and conditioning of Biola's student-athletes, keeping players on the field and helping athletes get back on the field of play with successful recovery plans.

"I'm incredibly excited to be joining the Biola Athletics Department as the Director of Sport Performance!" said Larsen. "I'm greatly looking forward to the opportunity to be in a Christ-centered community where I can develop and encourage athletes to be the best they can be!" 

Larsen is coming from a year of work at the University of Indianapolis. He was the assistant strength and conditioning coach at the NCAA DII level, working with multiple nationally-ranked squads and supervising their internship program.

Since graduating with a Masters in Athletic Training, Larsen has spent the last four years within the realm of strength and conditioning at schools ranging from the NAIA to NCAA Division I and II.

The midwest played host to Larsen's education, as he earned his undergraduate degree at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He majored in psychology at Cornerstone before securing an MS in Athletic Training at Bethel University in Arden Hills, Minnesota.

Larsen also boasts multiple certifications and licenses, including CSCS Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, ATC Certified Athletic Trainer and CPR certifications.

Larsen will also bring experience on the pitch having coached the Covenant Christian High School girl's varsity squad.

"Thank you to Dr. Miller and the hiring committee for trusting me to be a part of the department and to help develop athletes in the weight room. Having the support and confidence from the staff and hiring committee during the interview process is an honor and it is something that I am very thankful for. Go Eagles!" commented Larsen.

Larsen will be landing in La Mirada in July with an official start date of July 8.