08/18/2026
Huge congrats…. From a 17-year-old kid stepping onto the field at Scottsdale Community College to the new Head of Strength & Conditioning at Western New Mexico University; what a ride for Ben Burnell . Continuing the tradition
Twenty years ago, Ben showed up with an unmatched work ethic, absolute authenticity, and a competitive drive that made him an instant favorite amongst his teammates. After three relentless years with us, he served our country for four years in the U.S. Navy aboard an aircraft carrier. When he returned, he jumped straight into our internship program while earning his Exercise Science degree at ASU, earned his spot as a paid assistant coach, and eventually stepped up as a core pillar of our performance team at Triple Threat Performance. Along the way, he met the love of his life, Cierra, began impact coaching at Horizon High School, and welcomed their baby boy into the world.
Developing, mentoring, and building young people isn’t just what Ben does; it’s what he was born to do. He cares about his athletes with a rare level of heart that makes people want to climb Everest for him.
The Mustangs just got a whole lot better today. Couldn’t be prouder or more excited for Ben, Cierra, and every single athlete at WNMU who gets the opportunity to train under him.