Rodd Strobel, chair of the Department of Health and Physical Education and assistant professor of physical education, will present Walla Walla University’s 2023 Distinguished Faculty Lecture on Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. His presentation is titled “The Oldest Profession in the World: What Coaching Can Teach Us About the Essence of Being Human.”

Strobel has long been fascinated in the role of coaching as a way to support growth in others. “From the very creation of the world, coaching has connected people in moments of instruction and growth,” said Strobel. Since graduating from WWU, Strobel has coached more than 41 seasons across a variety of sports.

In his lecture, Strobel will explore biblical examples of coaching and how coaching has helped him understand the importance of our physical being and our Christian purpose. As a physical educator for over 30 years, he is convinced of the interdependence of physical, mental, and spiritual health. 

Strobel began teaching at WWU in 2007. His academic interests center on coaching, motor learning, and administration of health and physical education programs. He has also been actively involved in the Seventh-day Adventist–Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Association for many years, including serving as president in 2020 and encouraging ongoing student involvement in the annual convention. 

The lecture will take place on Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. in the Melvin K. West Fine Arts Center auditorium and is free and open to the public. The auditorium is located at 200 S. College Ave., College Place. 

Posted Oct. 29, 2023.