Jason Zerbach is a strength and conditioning coach who was able to connect well with athletes from different sports at Gardner-Webb University through his patience and firm discipline. He cared about each individual athlete and helped them trust his guidance. As a coworker, Jason was always eager to help other coaches with tasks and help better the department. Kenna Smoak believes Jason will be successful as a strength coach if given the right opportunity.

1. To whom it may concern,
This is a personal reference for Coach Jason Zerbach and his coaching ability in the field of
strength and conditioning. I had the pleasure of working alongside Jason Zerbach at Gardner-Webb
University Summer 2014. What impressed me as his ability to have patience, but firm in discipline with
all athletes. This ranged from women’s basketball, swimming, and football. He was able to connect to
each individual in a team setting. This allowed each athletes to trust his guidance and instruction,
because they knew he cared. I also was impressed with how the athletes wanted to know more about
him before coaching. It is apparent that Jason has a strong root in order and doing things right from his
military background and this has shaped him into the patient, but firm coach he is today.
In regards to Jason as a coworker he would have done anything to better the department or
someone on staff. Many times multiple coaches throughout the day would need him for tedious set up
or help and he always was eager to assist. Coach Zerbach I believe will make it far as a strength and
conditioning coach, and it just depends on who gives him the opportunity.
Sincerely,
Kenna Smoak
Strength Coach – Southern Methodist University
678-899-5656 mobile
214-768-1343 cell
ksmoak@smu.edu