REDLANDS, CA – The University of Redlands Athletics Department is proud to announce the appointments of Elizabeth Falk, PTA, CSCS, and Thomas Staup, MS, CSCS, as Sports Performance Coaches. Both bring extensive expertise in strength and conditioning, athlete development, and evidence-based training methodologies that will enhance the competitive excellence of Redlands student-athletes.
Elizabeth "Liz" Falk: Bridging Rehabilitation and Performance
Liz Falk joins the Bulldogs with a unique dual credential as both a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Her decade-long career seamlessly integrates injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimization.
Most recently, Falk served as the Head of Sports Performance and Athlete Development at The Institute for Precision in Movement/Performance Physical Therapy in Redlands, where she designed and implemented comprehensive training programs for over 40 athletes who ranged from youth to professional levels. Her expertise with advanced assessment technology—including VALD ForceDecks, ForceFrame, Dynamo, and HumanTrak—enables data-driven programming tailored to individual athlete needs.
"Liz's background in physical therapy gives her an invaluable perspective on athlete care," said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics
Nikki Ayers. "She understands not just how to build strength and power, but how to do so while minimizing injury risk and supporting long-term athletic development."
Falk's clinical experience spans outpatient orthopedic, sports, neuromuscular, and hand therapy settings across California and Missouri. She holds specialized certifications, including Performance Enhancement Specialist (NASM), Orthopedic Specialization (OPTA), and Certified HawkGrips Practitioner, complementing her CSCS credential from the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Falk received an Associated of Applied Science degree in Physical Therapy from St. Louis Community College before attending Webster University to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Media Communications.
"I'm thrilled for the opportunity to join the competitive University of Redlands Bulldogs as a Sports Performance Coach," Falk explained. "I look forward to further elevating the program through performance training grounded in sports science, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a culture that prioritizes athlete inclusion, performance, and health."
Thomas "Tommy" Staup: Building Championship Culture
Tommy Staup brings a proven track record of developing competitive athletes across multiple sports and strength disciplines. As Co-Owner and Head Coach of The Bunker, a private training company in Hawaiian Gardens, Staup has cultivated a results-driven training environment that is focused on powerlifting excellence and pain-free performance.
Staup's coaching philosophy emphasizes individualized programming, athlete education, and systematic progression. His experience of establishing the Tactical Division at TMW Barbell demonstrates his ability to adapt training methodologies for diverse populations, including military personnel, first responders, and MMA athletes.
His educational foundation includes a Master of Science in Kinesiology from A.T. Still University and internship experience at NCAA Division I programs at Pepperdine University, UC Riverside, and Division III University of La Verne. These experiences provide him with comprehensive exposure to collegiate strength and conditioning operations across multiple sports.
"Tommy brings an innovative approach to strength development and a deep understanding of periodization," Ayers stated. "His ability to connect with athletes and create sustainable training systems will be instrumental in elevating our program."
Staup holds multiple industry certifications including CSCS, Certified Active Life Professional, USA Powerlifting Club Coach, and Conjugate Tactical Certified Coach, alongside USA Weightlifting Level 1 certification.
Elevating Redlands Athletics
Together, Falk and Staup represent a strategic investment in the holistic development of University of Redlands student-athletes. Their complementary skill sets—Falk's rehabilitation expertise and technology-driven assessments paired with Staup's competitive coaching experience and program design acumen—create a comprehensive approach to athletic performance.
Both coaches will work collaboratively with Redlands coaches across all sports to develop periodized training programs, conduct performance testing, manage injury prevention protocols, and foster a culture of excellence in the Fitness Center.
"We are thrilled to welcome Liz and Tommy to the Bulldog family," Ayers explained. "Their commitment to evidence-based training, athlete-centered coaching, and championship development aligns perfectly with our mission to provide an exceptional student-athlete experience."
