May 11, 2015 CHICAGO - UIC head strength and conditioning coach Nick Zostautas was recently presented with the certification of Master Strength and Conditioning Coach by the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCa) at their annual conference. The honor is the highest of its kind in the Strength and Conditioning profession.

"This is truly one of the highest honors that I have ever received," Zostautas said. "Being honored among the prestigious coaches who have received this honor is truly humbling. All of this would not have been possible without those who I have worked for and been influenced by throughout the years. Coaches like Paul Chapman, Brian Bedard, Paul Goldberg, Brian Kopecky and Larry Lilja have shaped me into the coach that I am today and I truly have to give credit where credit is due."

Zostautas becomes part of a select group of individuals to earn the honor, as there are only 157 coaches to receive this level of certification and title of distinction since its inception in 2000.

Zostautas has played an integral part in the strength and conditioning of UIC's student-athletes since joining the Flames in 2009. Zostautas oversees all of UIC's Varsity Athletic Teams and works directly with men's soccer, baseball, men's basketball, softball and the throwers for the men's and women's track and field teams.

To qualify for the title, an individual must: hold a minimum of a bachelors degree; be currently practicing as a full-time strength and conditioning coach at the collegiate or professional level; hold current membership in the CSCCa; hold the CSCCa Certification -- SCCC (Strength & Conditioning Coach Certified); and be a full-time, collegiate and/or professional-level strength & conditioning coach for a minimum of 12 years.