University of Illinois Springfield Athletics

Zach Leinen joined the UIS Athletics staff in 2025 as the Assistant Sports Performance Coach, bringing a strong background in athlete development and data-driven performance training.

Leinen earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Exercise Science from Middle Tennessee State University, where he worked closely with the men's basketball and baseball teams. His primary responsibilities included integrating new athletes into training programs, optimizing performance through data collection and assessment, and assisting with strength and conditioning initiatives.

Before pursuing his education at MTSU, Leinen served for four years in the U.S. Navy as a Crash and Salvage Firefighter aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln.