Scott Caulfield

A difference maker. One of the best in the business! A benefit to the entire campus.

Coach Scott Caulfield receives a lot of praise, and he deserves it! If you want to be the best, you need to be trained by the best and Norwich University truly has one of the best in the business to help you get physically prepared for whatever the next challenge might be.

Don’t just take our word for it, the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) named Coach Caulfield the NSCA 2025 College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year. Talk about the true definition of the best!

At Norwich University, the embodiment of athleticism, physical fitness and rigorous training is part of our DNA stretching back to the very foundation of the school in 1819. We are thrilled to have Coach Scott Caulfield leading those efforts today. He is one of the most well-known and respected collegiate strength and conditioning coaches in the industry. After a decade at the NSCA as a coaching education manager and head strength and conditioning coach, he became the first Director of Strength and Conditioning in university history in 2021.

Upon his arrival at Norwich, a significant shift was made to the adoption of a holistic approach towards strength and conditioning. Incorporating his experience as a U.S. Navy veteran, the native Vermonter impeccably fit the dynamic and multifaceted requirements of this role within America’s oldest private military college and the birthplace of ROTC.

In 2024, Coach Caulfield didn’t just earn recognitions, he epitomized excellence and set the gold standard in his field. He became the first full-time college strength and conditioning coach to ever be named President of the NSCA Foundation’s Board of Directors. But he didn’t stop there. He further went on to join the elite in the profession as one of the newest individuals to attain the revered Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach® Emeritus (RSCC*E) designation. He is one of just 250 experts to enter this highly select group from among over 60,000 NSCA members worldwide. To put it simply, Coach Caulfield’s skills, dedication, and education put him in the top .004% of the NSCA membership, a testament to his unparalleled distinction in the field.

Coach Caulfield provides a massive positive impact for the physical training of the entire campus. His knowledge and expertise benefit a wide range of students in multiple ways. He oversees the physical development of over 600 student-athletes spanning 23 diverse varsity sports. Besides athletics, Coach Caulfield excels as an adjunct lecturer at in the Norwich Health and Human Performance Department, preparing students with valuable skills for their successful health and fitness careers. His collaboration and counseling to the ROTC leaders and the Corps of Cadets is unique, providing them with excellent guidance on training methods and best practices for the cadet fitness trainers. He was also instrumental in the creation of a new weightroom for the entire Norwich community. The Class of 1984 Fitness Center features advanced workout equipment including power racks, free weights, state-of-the-art machines, a cardio zone, and even an area for explosive movements on the turf in the facility.

There are two other very important members of the strength and conditioning staff that are always with Coach Caulfield – Alfie the mini and River the golden! These two famous furry faces are always on campus and bring a welcomed smile to anyone they meet. Alfie is a Certified Therapy Dog by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and is always quick with a short bark to invite people to bend down and pet her. River, who also passed her therapy certification, has quickly become a student favorite and can be found romping across campus carrying a toy while searching for someone to befriend. Each week they also spend time at the Wise Campus Center to hang out with students.

Q&A with Director Caulfield

What brought you to becoming a coach for your sport?

As I transitioned out of the Navy at the age of 25, I witnessed firsthand the direct correlation between strength and conditioning and overall sports performance. The significant improvements in my athletic development were undeniable. It was a pivotal moment when I realized I could turn my passion into a career by helping young individuals achieve their full potential through proper training and guidance in strength and conditioning.

What excites you about this sport?

Witnessing the growth and empowerment that athletes experience through the competence and confidence cultivated by strength and conditioning.

What do you enjoy about working with student-athletes?

As a coach, my passion lies in witnessing athletes grow stronger and more confident on and off the field. Equipping them with the knowledge and tools to thrive throughout their adult lives drives my commitment. It's not solely about winning games; it's about molding individuals into well-rounded and successful people. While I take immense joy in seeing my players excel in competition, the true reward comes from watching their personal growth. Whether it's overcoming challenges or building meaningful relationships with teammates, these experiences are what truly matter.

What do you like about coaching at Norwich?

As a former D3 college athlete and Navy veteran, Norwich is an excellent match for me. The institution’s guiding values and commitment to leadership and service resonate deeply with my beliefs and experiences.

Why is Norwich a great place for student-athletes?

Norwich University delivers a distinctive experience for student-athletes, featuring 23 Division III sports teams that span a variety of disciplines, from football to rifle shooting. This diverse and competitive athletic program allows students to thrive while balancing their academic commitments with their passion for sport. At Norwich, student-athletes cultivate essential time management and leadership skills, equipping them for success in all areas of life.

What is your approach to coaching?

I aim to educate, motivate, and inspire Norwich University athletes through strength and conditioning. A strong and well-conditioned body is essential for achieving peak athletic performance, preventing injuries and promoting overall health. As a coach with years of experience working with various athletic teams across many levels, I deeply understand different sports and individual athletes' unique needs. I strive to build meaningful relationships, ensuring athletes recognize my qualifications in overseeing their development and my genuine care for them.

What is Norwich’s approach to athletics, training and being on a team?

A key element of Norwich's approach to athletics is its focus on character development. Coaches and staff are dedicated to instilling essential values like discipline, perseverance, teamwork and sportsmanship in their athletes. This commitment fosters success in their athletic pursuits and equips them for life beyond college.