A Homegrown Strength Coach
Justin McClelland, a Naugatuck native and lifelong UConn Huskies fan, was appointed director of strength and conditioning for the University of Connecticut men’s basketball team in early June. The university announced the hire as part of a continued effort to bolster player development ahead of the upcoming season.
McClelland’s connection to the program runs deep; he grew up watching the Huskies and later played Division III basketball at Eastern University in St. Davids, Pennsylvania. After earning a master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from California University of Pennsylvania in 2015, he began a coaching career that included stints at Villanova, Germantown Academy, Florida, East Carolina and Clemson.
During his three‑year tenure at Villanova, McClelland worked under Mike Nardi, now an assistant coach at UConn, and succeeded Gavin Roberts, who departed for Oklahoma State. His predecessor’s exit opened the path for McClelland to shape the team’s physical preparation, a role he says is aimed at building relationships with players and enhancing their bodies for summer workouts.
His philosophy centers on transforming athletes’ physiques so they move more efficiently on the court. ‘I want to help them get stronger, faster, and more resilient,’ McClelland said, noting that the summer months provide a critical window for physical gains.
Family members, including his wife Vicki and their children Josh, JoAnna, Hallie and Tim, remain rooted in Connecticut. They are excited about the new chapter and look forward to supporting the program from their home state.
McClelland’s background also includes collaborations with a range of institutions, from Eastern University to the Hearst Connecticut Media Group, giving him a broad perspective on athlete conditioning and academic support.
Looking Ahead
As the Huskies prepare for the next season, McClelland plans to integrate his exercise‑science expertise with the existing coaching staff to create a cohesive development pathway. His appointment signals a continued investment in the program’s infrastructure and a commitment to elevating the team’s competitive edge.