University of Delaware Athletics
Field Hockey Announces the Hiring of Jason Klinkradt as New Assistant Coach
3/1/2024 2:42:00 PM | Field Hockey
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware athletics and head field hockey coach Rolf van de Kerkhof are excited to announce the hire of Jason Klinkradt as the program's new assistant coach, effective immediately.
Klinkradt comes to Newark after a seven-month stint as the assistant coach and technical director at James Madison University. While with the Dukes, Klinkradt handled international recruiting, was a liaison to international players, and handled administration with all international prospects. His assistance with practice and game planning helped the Dukes to wins over CAA champion William & Mary and Georgetown.
"Our program and department welcome Jason as a member of Team Delaware and the university community," said van de Kerkhof. "His extensive coaching experience, passion for field hockey, and people in general, will provide us a great foundation to create amazing opportunities and memories for our Delaware Blue Hen student-athletes, our program, alumni and fan base," van de Kerkhof continued.
Klinkradt's coaching experience spans over 13 years and after receiving his degree in honors psychology from the University of South Africa, he became the senior boys and junior girls head field hockey coach at Wesley College in Dublin, Ireland. During his time at Wesley, Klinkradt also served as an assistant coach and performance analyst for the Hockey Ireland U21 men's team.
For nine years, he served as the head coach at the U21 level for both Free State Province in South Africa and Leinster Provincial. Klinkradt's training sessions and his establishment of his coaching plans and development programs led to his teams medaling three times in South Africa and twice in Ireland.
"Being part of such a renowned institution with a rich history like the University of Delaware is an honor. The Blue Hens have a strong presence in conference play and postseason competition, and I am eager to contribute to their legacy," remarked Klinkradt. "Head Coach Rolf van de Kerkhof's vision for the program resonated with me from our initial conversations, and since I've joined, I've felt a strong bond with the Blue Hen community. I am thrilled to be part of this team and am excited about the journey ahead."
Klinkradt's time in the coaching world has taken him to three different continents, helping men's and women's teams excel in South Africa, Ireland, and the United States. His teams have won championships around the globe and he even assisted the 2021 Senior Women's Irish National Team for the Tokyo Olympics.
"I would like to thank about half of my team for being involved in the interview process, members of our coaching and support staff as well as colleagues in our University of Delaware athletic leadership and Talent Management for their involvement in this process," van de Kerkhof said. "Together we have selected and are fortunate to welcome Jason and his fiancé Taylor as great new members for our Delaware Field Hockey Family. Let's Go DEHO!"
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