Bio

Roberto Mena was hired to lead the strength and conditioning department at his alma mater in the summer of 2024. He brings over 15 years of service in the field of athletic performance enhancement, specializing in maximizing athletic potential while minimizing injuries. He has successfully carved out a distinguished career through his expertise in developing comprehensive training programs tailored to athletes across all levels.

As the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Over The Top Athletes in North Haven, Conn., from August 2012 to July 2024, Roberto was at the forefront of sports performance training. He founded and designed a 6,000-square-foot facility specifically to cater to elite athletes, ensuring that every aspect of the environment contributed to their development. His approach included not only physical conditioning but also mental health, incorporating meditation, mindfulness, and regular check-ins to support overall well-being.

Mena’s influence extends beyond his own facility as he has also served as the Head Coach of the Strength and Conditioning Program at Hamden Hall Country Day School, where he worked from September 2016 to March 2024, and as the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Post University (Waterbury, Conn.) from September 2021 to October 2022. His role at Post University involved managing the strength and conditioning needs for over 20 NCAA Division II sports teams, ensuring that each team had a tailored program to prepare them for both in-season and off-season competition.

Additionally, Mena has experience in baseball coaching, having worked as an assistant baseball coach at Post University and as a Strength and Conditioning Coach/Baseball Coach at Batter’s Box in Hamden, Conn. His background in professional baseball, with stints in both the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros organizations, as well as his time in independent professional leagues, underscores his deep understanding of the demands of high-level sports.

Mena earned his bachelor's degree in exercise science and sports studies with a concentration in adult fitness from the University of Tampa, where he also made significant contributions to the baseball team. He was the starting shortstop for two NCAA Division II National Championship teams, coming in the 2006 and 2007 seasons. He was also the first player in Spartan history to hit for the cycle in a game.

His certifications include the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Level 1 Certification, and USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaches Certification, with recertification in progress.