Eric Kjar stepped into the role of head coach for Weber State football this season, bringing with him a résumé that blends a small‑town Wyoming upbringing, a high school coaching record littered with state titles, and a personal confrontation with multiple sclerosis. His journey from the quiet streets of Kemmerer to the bustling campus of Weber State is marked by a relentless focus on discipline, work ethic, and urgency.
A Philosophy Rooted in Discipline
Kjar’s coaching philosophy is built on the pillars of rigor and resilience. He insists on rigorous training regimens, strict nutritional standards, and mental fortitude, tools he has honed while managing the daily challenges of MS. "Discipline is not just a word on the board; it’s a way of life," he says, emphasizing that the same habits that help him navigate his health struggles also drive his team toward excellence.
The foundation of his approach is family. His father, Col. Michael Kjar, a Brigadier General in the Utah National Guard, instilled a deep respect for leadership and service. This familial ethic surfaces in every practice, where accountability, togetherness, and relentless effort are taught as much as technique.
More Than a Game
Kjar also coaches his own sons, Tate and Noah, using their drive as a living laboratory for the team’s standards. Their relentless pursuit of improvement becomes a model for every player, illustrating how personal commitment translates into collective success. He believes that football is a vehicle for teaching life lessons — responsibility, perseverance, and the power of a unified mindset.
His early career at Jordan High School was not without setbacks; his first game ended in a loss and a region contest proved equally tough. Yet those moments forged a grit that now defines his leadership at Weber State. After stints at Snow College and a formative period in Wyoming, Kjar returned to the Intermountain West with a clear vision: to build a program where discipline meets opportunity.
The $16 million Youngberg Football Center, where Kjar’s office resides, symbolizes the university’s investment in his vision. The modern facility offers state‑of‑the‑art training spaces, nutrition labs, and recovery zones designed to support both physical performance and the mental resilience required to thrive under his demanding standards.
Beyond the field, Kjar’s story resonates with a broader audience. From the high deserts of Kemmerer to the collegiate arena in Ogden, Utah, his path illustrates how personal adversity, family legacy, and an uncompromising work ethic can converge to reshape a program. As he continues to mentor young men, his impact extends far beyond wins and losses, echoing a philosophy that values effort, growth, and the relentless pursuit of improvement.