Renowned San Francisco-based personal trainer Frank Matrisciano will begin work Monday as the University of Memphis’ new strength and conditioning coach, replacing Richard Hogans, Tigers coach Josh Pastner said this evening.
Matrisciano, known for his extremely vigorous training methods and reclusive lifestyle, has been lauded for his work with Los Angeles Clippers forward and recently named NBA Rookie of the Year Blake Griffin. Griffin trained with Matrisciano in San Francisco before being selected No. 1 overall in the 2009 NBA draft.
Matrisciano has also worked with Orlando Magic guard Gilbert Arenas, Memphis Grizzlies forward Leon Powe and Houston Rockets forward Patrick Patterson.
"He’s coming here full-time. He’s coming here to help the Memphis Tigers reach the ultimate goal," Pastner said this evening. "I’ve known Frank for a long time. He’s been offered jobs in the NBA. He’s trained special forces in the military and all kinds of elite-level athletes."
Matrisciano, nicknamed "Hell’s Trainer," has declined to reveal his age publicly and lived in San Francisco in a one-bedroom apartment. According to a February story by San Francisco-based 7×7 magazine, Matrisciano is in his mid-40s and grew up in New Jersey.
Pastner said Matrisciano won’t be formally introduced to local media, adding that Matrisciano prefers to work outside the spotlight.
"He’s just gonna hop right in. I’ll do the talking," Pastner said. "He doesn’t want to do anything with the media. He just wants to work."
Hogans, who had been at Memphis since the 2004-05 season, left the program in late March to explore other opportunities, Pastner said.
