GREENVILLE – S.C. – The Francis Marion University strength and conditioning staff has been selected as the inaugural Conference Carolinas Strength and Conditioning Staff of the Year for the 2024-25 academic year.

The Patriot strength and conditioning staff was comprised of Director of Sports Performance, Deon Edwards and assistants Makayla Brown, Austin Vienna and Nancy Beasley.

“Deon is well deserving of this award," Francis Marion Athletics Director Murray Hartzler said. "This past season saw four Francis Marion programs advance to NCAA postseason play, and nearly a fifth, while 38 Patriot student-athletes earned all-conference honors and seven garnered All-America recognition. Deon played a direct role in these successes. His work with our student-athletes during the off season, and during their competition seasons, has greatly enhanced their improvement and their ability to compete at a high level. He has also been of invaluable assistance to our athletic training staff in the recovery process of student-athletes who suffer injuries and their ability to return to play.”

The Strength and Conditioning Staff of the Year award is voted on by each member strength and conditioning department.

“The Francis Marion strength and conditioning staff had an outstanding year and it is great to see them recognized with this award,” Conference Carolinas Commissioner Chris Colvin said.

Conference Carolinas Strength and Conditioning Staff of the Year (First Year of Award in 2024-25)
2024-25: Francis Marion