Toni Brem
Toni Brem is a dedicated and dynamic sports professional currently serving as a Graduate Assistant for the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Program at the University of South Carolina Upstate. A former collegiate athlete herself, Toni holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with minors in Coaching and Sport Psychology and is now pursuing her M.S. in Exercise and Sport Science. In her first season with USC Upstate, she contributed to a historic year—helping the team win the Big South regular season and tournament championships and earning their first NCAA Tournament appearance. Her coaching staff was honored with the 2024 Big South Coaching Staff of the Year award.
Toni's passion lies in youth development, evidence-based training, and fostering the mental and physical performance of athletes. Beyond the college field, she coaches youth teams at Carolina Football Club, leads Les Mills BodyPump classes, and has interned in strength and conditioning at the collegiate level. With experience in research, player development, and team leadership, Toni thrives in environments that challenge her to grow while inspiring others. She is committed to building a career that bridges athletic excellence with holistic athlete empowerment.
• Biomedical Responsible Conduct of Research
• Conflict of Interest
• Social and Behavioral Researchers
• Social and Behavioral Responsible Conduct of Research
• Biomedical Investigators
• 11v11 Coaching License
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
• Bodypump Instructor
• University of Mount Olive- B.S., R.L.S.
• University of South Carolina Upstate- M.S.
• NSCA
• ISSN
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to relentless hard work and the guidance of an incredible mentor, Sharif Saber, whose leadership and belief in me have inspired my journey from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and now South Carolina, and whose teams have consistently reached the NCAA Championships.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: “You can achieve your dreams if you want it bad enough!”—a reminder that passion and persistence can turn goals into reality.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is: You are a champion—dream big, believe in yourself, and achieve your goals.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities right now are balancing my own master’s studies while making sure our athletes receive the highest quality training and support.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are hard work, maintaining physical fitness, pursuing excellent education, and prioritizing mental well-being.