Coaching Staff

Brad Bechel | Head Powerlifting Coach

Men’s and women’s powerlifting head coach Guillermo Blanco announced the addition of Bradly Bechel to the powerlifting and strength and conditioning programs as a volunteer assistant Fall 2019.

Bechel has been competing personally in powerlifting competitions since he was 14 years old and then coaching and personal training since 2012. He has multiple medals and awards from his time competing including a bronze medal at the 2016 USPA National Championship and was named the 2017 overall best lifter at the 2017 Chicago Fit Expo.

In 242/275lb weight class competition, Bechel has recorded a personal best total weight of 1,827lbs over his 19 years of competing. His best in the squat is 700lbs, a 501lb lift in the bench press, and then 661lbs deadlift.

Prior to McKendree, Bechel was studying at Lindenwood University where he completed his bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management after graduating from Southwester Illinois College with a physical therapist assistant degree. Before pursuing his higher education, Bechel was a member of the United States Army from 2005 till 2009. Bechel is father to Zoe Bechel.