Logan Synatzske: From Tarleton State to Afghanistan

Logan Synatzske: From Tarleton State to Afghanistan

Logan Synatzske, a 2009 graduate from the Tarleton State Master’s of Education in Kinesiology and Exercise Science program, currently serves as a Sergeant in the United States Army. Synatzske’s career is one of rigor and intensity as his main objective is to locate possible enemy weapons and explosives with the help of Tactical Explosive Detector Dogs.  

Synatzske reflects on Tarleton State’s curriculum, professors, and internship opportunities that helped to propel him into roles of exemplary leadership.

“If it hadn't been for much of the information I retained from classes and my internship during the pursuit of my M.Ed. in Kinesiology, I never would have found myself here in this very rewarding position,” says Synatzske. “I consider myself extremely lucky to have had the professors I did and the opportunity to learn from their examples. It has definitely had a large impact on making me the leader I am today.”

While Synatzske has many memorable memories associated with his time at Tarleton State, the majority of his favorite memories were ones spent as an active member of the Purple Poo. He also enjoyed Tarleton State sporting events, road trips, and academic endeavors, especially the trips taken with his Facilities class.

“We went to SMU's Recreational Sports Facility, UT-Arlington's Recreational Sports Facility, City of Arlington's softball and baseball field designed specifically for individuals who are physically handicapped and confined to a wheel chair, and to Big League Dreams in Mansfield,” Synatzske says.  

Previously, Synatzske worked as a Tarleton State Graduate Assistant of Fitness and Wellness as well as an Intern Coach for Train 4 the Game. As an intern coach, Synatzske focused on coaching individuals in tri-planar movement, foot-to-ground reaction forces, and moving the body as a kinetic chain rather than individual muscle groups. Many of the techniques he learned at Train 4 the Game are techniques he still incorporates into his Army Physical Training routines.

Synatzke says he feels incredibly blessed with his job in the Infantry, and believes that his current career is rewarding and gratifying. His greatest accomplishment since graduating from Tarleton State has been serving in Afghanistan. He enjoys being able to contribute to the safety of his “brothers in arms” on a daily basis.

“While being the guy that finds bombs isn't on the top of many people's list, it is certainly fulfilling knowing that 20 other individuals relied on you and your dog to bring them back safely at the end of a long mission and you have succeeded time and time again,” Synatzske explains.

Synatske is consistently motivated to be the best leader he can be and he actively gives advice to prospective graduate students.

“You only get out what you put in. Don't expect to be given anything,” says Synatske. “Nothing can replace hard work and dedication. Other than that, enjoy your time in school. Make new friends, get involved, make new memories, be open to new ideas, and cherish every second of it!”