Joey August joined Walla Walla University Athletics as strength and conditioning coach in 2024, bringing nearly two decades of experience in athletic performance, strength development and nutrition coaching. He is dedicated to helping student-athletes maximize their physical potential while developing the discipline, resilience and character needed for success in competition and in life.
Since arriving at WWU, August has led the development of a comprehensive strength and conditioning program that emphasizes sport-specific training, year-round performance planning and athlete education. Working collaboratively with coaches across multiple sports, he has implemented progressive training programs focused on strength, speed, power, movement quality, injury prevention and recovery. He has also introduced modern performance tools, including workout tracking, virtual coaching resources and video feedback, while fostering a culture built on accountability, consistency and excellence.
August has supported numerous Wolves programs during his tenure, including the cross country team as it prepared a student-athlete for the NAIA National Championships in 2025. He has also contributed to the continued development of the women's volleyball and men's soccer programs while providing strength and conditioning support to every varsity sport at Walla Walla University.
Prior to joining WWU, August founded and operated Strength2Strength Performance Coaching in Walla Walla, where he spent 18 years coaching athletes and individuals in strength development, powerlifting, nutrition, body composition and lifestyle transformation. Through individualized programming and evidence-based training methods, he helped competitive athletes achieve a 100% podium success rate in powerlifting competition while mentoring clients toward long-term physical and personal growth.
In addition to his coaching career, August is an accomplished competitive powerlifter. He was the 2021 Washington State Powerlifting Champion, earned the Best Overall Lifter Award, captured a first-place division finish and a third-place overall finish, and has set more than 15 Washington state powerlifting records in his age and weight classes. He has also competed at the Arnold Sports Festival Powerlifting Championships and the USA Powerlifting National Championships.
Before entering the coaching profession, August served as a Fleet Marine Force hospital corpsman in the United States Navy from 1982 to 1986.
August holds multiple professional certifications, including ISSA Certified Strength & Conditioning Coach, ISSA Certified Nutrition Coach, USA Powerlifting Certified Club Coach, Women's & Girls' Strength Sports Coaching Certification and National Strength & Conditioning Coach credentials. He is also an active member of USA Powerlifting.
August's coaching philosophy centers on developing the whole athlete. He believes true strength extends beyond physical performance and is measured by leadership, perseverance, integrity and service to others. His mission is to equip WWU student-athletes with the tools to excel in competition while preparing them for success beyond athletics.
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 — "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
