For over 25 years, Jeff Timmer has been a driving force at Keene State College, fostering a passion for movement and healthy living among his students. As a professor in human performance and movement sciences, Timmer emphasizes the importance of exercise as a lifelong commitment. “We really want them to learn the importance of exercise moving forward in their lives, and hopefully helping other people learn that,” he stated, highlighting a department-wide mission to instill these values in students.
Timmer’s office, located under Spaulding Gym, is a testament to his dedication. It is adorned with golf clubs, sports memorabilia, and recent accolades, including his recognition as the Little East Conference Women’s Golf Coach of the Year in October 2023. While awards are appreciated, he views them as outcomes of a deeper investment in his students’ well-being and development.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Timmer pursued a bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s in exercise science from Central Michigan University. He later earned a Ph.D. in exercise physiology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2001. Seeking a job closer to family, Timmer found an opportunity at Keene State. “When I came for my interview, I called my wife right away and said this is a classic, perfect New England town,” he recalled.
The community has proven to be an excellent environment for raising a family, with all three of Timmer’s children actively participating in sports. His oldest son, Noah, played baseball at Bates College, while his daughter Lucy competes in lacrosse at Keene High. After 25 years, Timmer still finds his role at Keene State invigorating, stating, “It’s new every day,” thanks to the fresh faces in his classroom and a supportive departmental atmosphere.
Mentorship Beyond the Classroom
Timmer believes that education extends beyond traditional classroom walls. “My biggest philosophy was to get to know the students outside of the class as best as you can,” he explained. This personal connection allows him to become a mentor, enriching the learning experience. Fellow coach Jim Condap has known Timmer for two decades and emphasized his multifaceted role: “He’s not just teaching a game; he’s a teacher, a mentor, and a friend.”
This commitment to mentorship was evident when he stepped in to assist the Monadnock Regional High School girls’ basketball team after the loss of their coach, Rob Colbert, during the season. Condap noted Timmer’s willingness to support the team on and off the court as a significant gift to the players during a challenging time.
Timmer’s influence extends well beyond the game itself. His ability to connect with students and athletes allows him to foster character, resilience, and a spirit of camaraderie, attributes that are invaluable in both sports and life.
Leading the Charge in Women’s Golf
In 2020, Timmer embraced a new challenge—becoming Keene State’s inaugural golf coach. Having previously advised the campus golf club and taught a golf class, he was well-prepared for the role. “Starting a team excited me because of all those experiences,” he said. The former Keene State Athletic Director, Phil Racicot, recognized Timmer’s qualifications, citing his strong teaching background and extensive knowledge of the sport as key factors.
Building a competitive golf team from scratch posed its own challenges, especially in a state where finding passionate female golfers is not easy. “To golf in college, you need to find kids who are really willing to work hard to get better,” he noted. Currently, the team comprises women from various states in the Northeast, with one dual-sport athlete hailing from Wisconsin.
Timmer actively promotes the advantages of Keene State, including its close relationship with the Keene Country Club. Unlike many colleges with distant golf courses, Keene State athletes benefit from nearby facilities, enhancing their training experience.
In a remarkable achievement, Timmer’s team secured their first championship title at the Little East Conference in October 2023. They claimed victory at the Valley Country Club in Warwick, Rhode Island, outperforming Husson University and setting a new team record in the process. Timmer expressed his joy, stating, “Happiness because they had worked so hard… it was exciting for all of us.”
While the championship is a significant milestone, Timmer remains focused on the program’s development and the personal growth of his athletes. For him, the success of his team represents not just accolades but also the culmination of hard work, dedication, and a shared commitment to the sport.
Through his teaching and coaching, Jeff Timmer continues to inspire generations of students and athletes, emphasizing the importance of movement as a fundamental aspect of life. His influence extends far beyond the classroom and the golf course, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to learn from him.