Tom Farniok’s journey took a sharp turn. A family rooted in offensive line tradition. Three brothers and a father all followed similar paths. Coaching seemed the obvious next step. But midway through his Iowa State career, Farniok had a revelation.
Strength and conditioning coaches play a critical role. Especially during those grueling off-season months. Position coaches have more limitations due to NCAA rules. The strength coach fosters team chemistry and camaraderie.As a standout player at Iowa State, he gained significant accolades. Starting 47 games and earning All-Big 12 honors three times. Farniok’s brief NFL stint led him toward a strength coaching career. His first stop, Buffalo, followed by a transition to Houston.The harsh reality of college football struck when he moved to Houston. Major Applewhite’s staff was fired at the end of the 2018 season. Farniok found himself swept up in the changes. Quickly, he secured a role at Louisiana Tech. He knew networking was key for future stability.His networking tour led him to Memphis. There, he connected with Josh Storms, the then-strength coach. When Mike Norvell and his staff moved to Florida State, Storms called Farniok. He accepted without hesitation.Farniok saw Storms as an inspiring figure. Someone who reminded him of Yancy McKnight, his mentor at Iowa State. Passionate and consistent, Storms made an impression. Farniok felt compelled to join his staff at Florida State.Entering his fifth season with the Seminoles, Farniok’s role is vital. He specializes in working with the offensive linemen. Collaborating with position coach Alex Atkins, they emphasize key teaching points. He dreams of developing players who reach their highest potential.Farniok draws from a wealth of family knowledge in football. His brothers’ careers span Oklahoma, Nebraska, and the NFL. Together, their cumulative experience spans twenty years. Farniok continuously seeks to enhance training techniques.The Square 1 system intrigues him. A method involving neuro training that aids the nervous system. Farniok believes in integrating new methodologies. Keeping Florida State’s program at the forefront is essential.Though Farniok sometimes misses on-field competition, he finds immense satisfaction elsewhere. Transforming players’ bodies and pushing their limits offer unique victories. The real triumphs come on Saturdays when these improvements shine.Seeing former two-star recruits develop into NFL prospects energizes him. When individual progress contributes to team success, it’s rewarding. Watching the team achieve goals, like capturing an ACC championship, means everything.His role mirrors that of an offensive lineman. Often unnoticed unless errors occur. Farniok thrives on helping others excel. Laying the groundwork for their success is his primary focus.At Florida State, Farniok is the backbone for the Seminoles’ strength and conditioning. Daily, he helps athletes prepare for their moment. His goal: to ensure they shine when it counts most.