Tom Brenda is in his 20th season as the pole vault coach with the Cal State Stanislaus track and field teams.
In his time with the program, the Warriors have enjoyed much success highlighted by three NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field national championships. Chaunte Mitchell was National Champion in 2004 and 2005. She set an NCAA Div. II National Record three times in her time with the Warriors and had a best of 13’ 5 ¼”.
In 2009, Kasey Burlingham, in his first season with the Warriors won a National title with a school record personal best of 17’ 8 ½ “. The Junior College transfer increased his best height by over eight inches in one season.
The team has had 23 pole vault All-Americans and has set new school records in both the men’s and women’s indoor and outdoor pole vault. Since 2003, Brenda has coached 14 conference pole vault champions.
No stranger to the Warriors, Brenda was a two-time all-conference vaulter with the University in 1985 and 1986 and is on the CSUS top-10 all-time list.
Brenda graduated from California State University, Stanislaus with a bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1986.
Prior to becoming the schools full-time vault coach, he worked with area high schools, Modesto Junior College, as well as teaching numerous clinics.
Brenda currently works in the athletic club management business and resides in Turlock.
