Gwen (Wentland) Mikinski has carved her path as a standout athlete and an accomplished coach on the global stage. Her diverse expertise allows her to work with athletes across all levels and sports, from those starting their journey to those aiming for Olympic greatness. Her strengths lie in tailoring training programs that precisely meet the unique needs of each individual she works with.
Her track and field journey began at Grand Blanc High School, where she shattered the Michigan state high jump record, clearing an impressive 6-0 at the CAN-USA Meet. Continuing her remarkable career at Kansas State University, Gwen amassed eight NCAA All-America certificates, clinched four NCAA Runner-up trophies, and secured two US National Championships under the mentorship of acclaimed jumps and multi-events coach Cliff Rovelto.
At Kansas State, Gwen showcased her versatility across multiple events, excelling in the combined events, long jump, triple jump, and her forte, the high jump. Her achievements speak volumes: seizing the 1995 National Indoor high jump title with a personal best leap of 6-5, setting a pentathlon high jump American and World Record of 6-4 1/4, and sharing the heptathlon high jump American Record of 6-4 with Jackie Joyner-Kersee. Recognized as KSU Athlete of the Year and a contender for the NCAA Division I Woman of the Year Award, her prowess on the field was unparalleled.
Beyond her athletic feats, Gwen has contributed significantly as a coach, lending her expertise to her alma mater, Kansas State University, and the University of California, Irvine. Her remarkable achievements have been celebrated, earning her a spot as a 2012 US Olympic Team coach. She has also been honored with an induction to the Kansas State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006, and the Greater Flint Sports Hall of Fame in December 2022.
Gwen holds a BS in Sociology from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Northern Arizona University. For over two decades, she has operated her successful sports consulting company, leaving an indelible mark in the sporting world and the athletes she mentors.
