Utah State University Eastern Men's Soccer

With an overall 75-58-10 overall collegiate coaching record, Bruce Palmbaum brings a wealth of coaching experience and a strong history of program turnarounds. Palmbaum arrives in Price, Utah, following a highly successful tenure at Kansas Wesleyan University, where he led the Coyotes to a 24-11-5 record over two seasons. Under his leadership, KWU made its first national tournament appearance in six years and received the NAIA Champion of Character Team award. His impact was immediate, guiding the program to a record-breaking turnaround, elevating them from a national ranking of #246 in 2022 to a top thirty position in 2024. In addition to his on-field achievements, Palmbaum prioritized academic excellence, overseeing 22 Daktronics scholar-athletes in 2024 and maintaining a 3.4 team GPA. Palmbaum's coaching career spans decades, with previous roles at institutions such as Stephens College (NAIA), Northern Michigan University (NCAA D2), and the University of Tulsa (NCAA D1), where he served as head men’s and women’s coach. His coaching experience extends beyond the collegiate level, including stints with professional clubs like the Reno Rattlers (USISL) and international academy coaching at Estudiantes de La Plata in Argentina. Palmbaum's playing career includes professional stints domestically and overseas. He played collegiately at UCLA and the University of Oregon. He holds a USSF “A” Coaching License and international coaching certifications. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Oregon and Master of Arts degree from the University of Tulsa. In his free time, he likes to ski, snowboard and fly fish. Palmbaum’s only son is currently the men’s head soccer coach at Kansas Wesleyan University.  

Mark Jespersen’s journey to becoming the head coach of USU Eastern’s mountain biking program is a story of passion, growth, and community. Originally from Houston, Texas, Mark’s path took him across states and experiences, eventually leading him to Price, Utah, where he would make a lasting impact on the local cycling scene. Mark’s academic journey began at BYU-Hawaii, where he pursued general studies. Later, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Finance at the University of Utah. It was there that Mark met Amy Knott, a standout basketball player from Price who played for Carbon High and later CEU (now USU Eastern). The two married and have spent the last 27 years together, raising their three daughters—Emily, Lindsey, and Josie—in Price. Their connection to the community runs deep, and their shared love for sports has always been a central part of their family life. In 2016, Mark founded the Carbon Composite Mountain Bike Team, driven by a vision to foster a competitive yet supportive environment for young cyclists. Starting with just three riders, the team quickly grew under his leadership, blossoming into a thriving program with 52 athletes. His dedication to the sport and his riders led to numerous accolades, including being named Coach of the Year in 2024. His athletes achieved impressive feats, with four state champions emerging from his program and the team consistently finishing as region champions or runners-up. Mark’s coaching is not just about winning races but about building a culture of perseverance and passion. He even helped design and create local XC race venues and trails, contributing to the growth of the sport in the region. His love for the outdoors, combined with a drive to give back to the community, has shaped his coaching philosophy: one centered on both personal and athletic development. For Mark, mountain biking is more than a sport; it’s a way to connect with nature, push limits, and inspire others to do the same. His commitment to his riders and the community echoes the values he shares with his wife, Amy, and their daughters. Now at USU Eastern, Mark continues to channel his passion into shaping the next generation of cyclists, ensuring that both on and off the trails, his riders are equipped to succeed.

A native of Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, Rasnakawewa brings a wealth of collegiate playing experience to the coaching staff after a four-year NAIA career. He began his collegiate career at Dakota Wesleyan University before transferring to Hannibal-LaGrange University, where he completed his final two seasons. Over his career, he appeared in more than 40 varsity matches, contributing both goals and assists, while also competing in the NPSL during the summer. In 2024, he earned a call-up to the Sri Lankan National Team, and as a senior in 2026, he was named to the American Midwest Conference Academic Team, earning Academic All-Conference honors. He earned a bachelor's degree in Sports Management from Hannibal-LaGrange University and remained with the program as a student coach for the men's soccer team from January through May 2026, gaining valuable coaching experience while completing his degree. His father, mother, sister, and brother all reside in his hometown of Surrey, British Columbia. He values the support of his family and brings a passion for player development, leadership, and the game of soccer to his coaching career.