The Florida Gators announced Tuesday the addition of Jake Sankal to the staff as the Gators’ new director of football nutrition and assistant strength & conditioning coach.
“We are excited about the addition of Jake Sankal to our organization and are thrilled to welcome him along with Amanda, and Emma and Ally to Gator Nation,” Head Coach Billy Napier said. “Jake’s reputation in the nutrition and strength and condition world precedes itself. He is one of the absolute best in his field. He also has developed great relationships and has been a difference maker for players throughout his career. His NFL experience will be beneficial to our aspiring players. I’m looking forward to watching Jake work hard and impact our players’ overall development.”
“I’m fired up to be a Gator,” Sankal said. “It’s an honor to be part of Coach Napier and Coach Fitz’s staff as we work to develop and positively impact these young men’s lives.”
Sankal arrives in Gainesville after spending eight seasons with the Washington Commanders in the National Football League. During his time in Washington, Sankal led all aspects of the team’s performance nutrition strategies and initiatives. He also served as a member of the NFL subcommittee to develop medical nutrition therapy protocols for concussion and other football injuries.
Here’s what Commanders’ QB Sam Howell and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen had to say on Florida hiring Jake Sankal.
Sam Howell, Jan. 2024, (Commanders QB)
“Florida is getting the best in the business with Jake. Jake truly knows how to get the best out of the athletes he works with. He goes the extra mile to make sure his players have all of the information and resources needed to maximize their abilities.”
“Jake has helped me truly become a pro. He’s helped me train in the weight room to a point where I feel like I’m stronger than ever and in the best shape of my life. He’s helped me focus on my nutrition and he’s helped me navigate how to fuel my body to be at my best.”
Jonathan Allen, Jan. 2024, (Commanders DT, 2x Pro Bowler)
“Jake has been one of the biggest reasons I have been able to have success in the NFL. He is one of the most genuine, kindest persons I have ever met, and Florida is lucky to be getting a guy like that.”