Springfield, Mass. - September 4, 2025 - When Dan Nichol '02 first set foot on the Springfield College campus, he only needed one visit to know he had found the right place. What started as a passion for health and fitness has grown into a dream career: serving as the Director of Athletic Performance for Football at the University of Minnesota.
Nichol, who studied applied exercise science (originally called the health fitness major), has spent the past 20+ years working with student-athletes, helping them grow not just as players but as people.
"Motivation is something I've been lucky to have instilled in me from a young age," Nichol said. "I have a passion for training and growing with teams. I live a dream every day, and Springfield College gave me that opportunity to start it and continue it."
For Nichol, Springfield was more than just an education, it was a foundation.
"Springfield College is an amazing place. Truly special and unique to those who want to help others grow mentally, emotionally, and physically in sport," he said. "The building blocks of becoming a coach are taught in all areas of both undergraduate and graduate work. The internship experiences are critical in the development of a young athlete and coach."
The lessons learned in Alden Street classrooms have guided him through two decades of coaching. His advice to young professionals entering the field? Lead with passion.
"My best advice is to lead with your heart and keep your heart bigger than your wallet. Be passionate to grow with your student-athletes on a daily basis. Make sure when you get an opportunity in an organization to get to know your team and their story."
When asked about his favorite memories from Springfield, Nichol doesn't immediately point to scores or stats. Instead, it's the relationships that stand out.
"The relationships I built over six years continue today," he said. "Most importantly, Jack Holik is responsible for where I stand today. And my friend Kevin Cahill was critical in getting me two head strength jobs after we graduated. Those connections are everything."
On the field, the 2000 football season holds a special place in his heart.
"I don't remember the scores, but I remember the playoff run, the moments, and the time spent together. From having Thanksgiving dinner in Cheney Hall to a road game win at Brockport, those memories will stay with me forever."
Today, Nichol's journey has come full circle. Just as his Springfield mentors once helped him, he now invests in the next generation of student-athletes at Minnesota, carrying forward the tradition of leadership, passion, and service that defines Springfield College.
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(Written By Ella Travaglino '25 G'27)
