The Sport Factory Jolene Wilkinson

Jolene Wilkinson

Jolene Wilkinson feels she was born to coach athletes. She combines a lifetime of athletic achievement with a passion for learning and coaching science. Jolene was an elite gymnast at age 11, a National Champion triathlete at 19, and a collegiate scholarship runner where she achieved Academic All-American and All-Conference at NJCAA level. She has been exposed to coaching for over 30 years. Jolene has earned a BS degree in psychology, a BS in physical education, and a MS degree in sport science with an emphasis in coaching from the United States Sports Academy. She is licensed by USA Triathlon.

Jolene has competed in triathlon for 21 years and has been a professional triathlete since 2001. She is a two time age group World Champion (20-24) in Olympic and long-distance triathlon. Currently, Jolene is in the World Class Athlete Program for the US Air Force. Jolene’s triathlon experience covers nearly all aspects of the sport. Starting as an IronKid she progressed to a top amateur; winning age group worlds; Elite, racing ITU around the world, and has qualified and competed in the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. In addition, she competed in the 2000 Olympic Trials for the time trial event in cycling, has raced Xterra, Mountain Biking, and even some adventure racing.

Jolene began coaching triathlon with the Junior Olympics in 1996 as an intern coach. She has experience coaching both adults and children from the age group, high school, and collegiate levels. Over the years of training, racing, and coaching, the learning process has never ceased for Jolene. She continues to broaden herself with new experiences and further her education. Jolene adjusts her coaching to support each athlete’s level of commitment and quest towards personal achievement. She believes that training for endurance sports can be a rewarding experience when it is done with the correct plan that fits the individual. The true enjoyment comes from personal improvement, overcoming challenges, and growing and learning as a person. It is an incredible gift to be fit and healthy.

Jolene balances her coaching and racing with other interests and activities. She enjoys traveling (a perk of racing!), outdoor activities, animals, and photography.

Published in: Coaches