TLDR: The University of Michigan’s football program has appointed Justin Tress as the new director of strength and conditioning, succeeding Ben Herbert. Tress, who has been with the university since 2018 after working under Herbert’s guidance, also spent time with the strength staff at Arkansas and Alabama. As a former defensive back with a background in exercise science, Tress steps into his new role with endorsement by both Herbert and head coach Sherrone Moore. Abigail O’Connor retains her position as director of performance nutrition, having been with the program for the last six years. Coach Moore expressed confidence in both Tress and O’Connor as crucial elements in maintaining and building upon the team’s player development and championship culture. Herbert praised Tress’s dedication and capabilities, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership.

In the recent shuffle of the University of Michigan football program’s coaching staff, Justin Tress has emerged as the new director of strength and conditioning. Tress transitions into the role previously occupied by his mentor Ben Herbert, who leaves behind a significant legacy within the program. Tress’s journey includes serving on Michigan’s strength staff since 2018, a tenure that has fortified his expertise under Herbert’s wing. Before his time in Ann Arbor, Tress honed his skills at Arkansas and gained valuable experience as part of the strength team that contributed to Alabama’s pursuit of a national championship.

Tress embraces his new leadership position with enthusiasm, backed by the confidence of head coach Sherrone Moore and the endorsement of Herbert. Moore praised Tress’s capabilities and is optimistic about the direction he will take the program in terms of player development. Tress is well-prepared to step into Herbert’s shoes and bring his knowledge from his extensive experience and background in exercise science.

Rounding out the announcement, the program’s director of performance nutrition, Abigail O’Connor, will continue her work with the team. Since 2018, O’Connor has been instrumental in supporting student-athlete development through tailored nutrition plans. With her previous experience at Houston and Minnesota, she brings a wealth of expertise to the Wolverines, aiming to enhance athletic performance through nutrition.

Coach Sherrone Moore emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency within the coaching staff to uphold the championship culture established at Michigan. Both Tress and O’Connor have been identified as pivotal to this endeavor, making the leadership transition seamless. The coach’s faith in Tress has only grown since their professional overlap began and continues to be a reassuring factor for the program’s future.

Ben Herbert, who has worked alongside Tress since 2017, voiced his confidence in Tress’s dedication, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to Michigan Football. Tress’s history as a former defensive back and his academic pursuits in exercise science have laid a foundation of credibility and passion for coaching that promises to keep the Wolverines competitive.

Overall, the new appointments within the Michigan football program are set to strengthen the team’s developmental strategies, focusing on a blend of physical conditioning and nutritional excellence. The collaboration between Tress’s leadership in strength and conditioning and O’Connor’s nutritional guidance positions the Wolverines well for future success both on and off the field.