Bonnie Edmondson, Connecticut – 2016

Bonnie Edmondson, Connecticut – 2016

Bonnie has degrees from the University of Hartford (CT), Southern Connecticut State University, and Eastern Connecticut State University.  She has over 28 years of experience as a coach at the international, national, collegiate and scholastic levels. She is currently working at the CT State Department of Education, coaching at Trinity College, as well as coaching the throwing events for the USA Track & Field team.

Beginning as a high school coach she worked her way into college coaching at UConn and Trinity College. Bonnie is currently the US Olympic coach for women’s track & field throwing events, and went to the Games of the XXXI Olympiad in Rio this summer. 

As a 2-time national champion in the women’s hammer throw, Bonnie had secured a position on the 1992 US Olympic team; however, there was not a women’s event contested in this area – even though there was such an event for men.  She became a key advocate along with a small group of women who worked to have the event finally included in the Olympics in 2000.  “This process taught me the importance of persistence, dedication, and passion for working toward equality and making the future brighter for young athletes.”

Bonnie has received many honors: USATF President’s Award, CT AHPERD Pathfinder Award, Manchester, CT, Sports Hall of Fame, and Eastern CT State University Athletic Hall of Fame.  She was honored with the naming of the “Dr. Bonnie J. Edmondson Female Sportsperson of the Year Award” presented annually to an Eastern CT State University student-athlete.

“As a former professional athlete, current coach, and life-long advocate, I bring a passion for advancing girls and women in sports.  I continue to be inspired by true pathfinders and I am committed to ensure equality for girls and women in sports.”