As Chris Klieman continues to lead the Kansas State Wildcats with passion and determination, he does so with the support of his beloved wife, Rhonda.
The Wildcats, under Klieman’s stewardship, hold the distinction of being the winningest active program in the Big 12 Conference.
Let’s take a look into the life of Rhonda Klieman and the invaluable role that she plays in Chris’ life.
Chris Klieman, born on September 27, 1967, is the head coach of the Kansas State Wildcats football team.
A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Klieman was a standout quarterback on the Columbus Catholic High School football team.
Following high school, Klieman showcased his skills as the defensive secondary for the Northern Iowa Panthers football team.
Likewise, Klieman embarked on a coaching career starting as a graduate assistant at Northern Iowa after graduating in 1990.
His coaching journey included stops at Western Illinois, Kansas, Missouri State, and Loras College, where he served in various capacities.
However, Klieman truly made his mark on the collegiate football landscape during his tenure at North Dakota State University.
Finally, he became the head coach of Kansas State in 2018 after leading the North Dakota State to four NCAA titles.
Chris Klieman Wife: Rhonda Klieman
Rhonda Klieman is known for being the wife of Chris Klieman, a veteran coach in American college football.
According to sources, Rhonda is a 1986 graduate of Thomson High School in Thomson, Illinois. Other than that, her personal details remain private.
Nonetheless, Rhonda’s steadfast presence has been a beacon of strength as Chris navigates the world of collegiate football coaching.
Navigating The Family Life
The Kansas State coach has also showcased his ability to balance his professional and personal life with grace.
At the heart of this balance is his relationship with Rhonda Klieman, who has been his partner through thick and thin.
Their marriage has weathered numerous transitions and challenges, embodying the volatile nature of a coaching career.
Rhonda’s unwavering support has been instrumental in ensuring the smooth transition of their family from one coaching stop to another.
She always offered stability to their children and maintained a sense of normalcy despite the uncertainties.
“My job as a mom is to have that front, that it is business as usual,” Rhonda explained in an interview.
From Kansas to Missouri State, from Loras College to Northern Iowa, and finally settling in Manhattan, they embraced each move as an opportunity for growth and adventure.
Together, Chris and Rhonda embody the true essence of partnership, resilience, and unconditional devotion.
Meet Chris Klieman Kids
Chris and Rhonda Klieman’s family comprises three children: Devin, Colby, and Haley, who have grown up embracing a nomadic lifestyle.
Interestingly, all three children are actively engaged in sports, following their father’s footsteps.
Devin Klieman recently joined North Dakota State University’s football staff as safeties coach in January 2024.
Previously, he was with Kansas State, contributing to the Wildcats’ Big 12 championship in 2022.
Further, Devin was a graduate assistant at Abilene Christian, where he assisted with on-campus recruiting and player development.
Haley, the only daughter of Chris, is a senior majoring in marketing at Kansas State University. Like her elder brother, she also demonstrates her passion for sports.
Excelling as a volleyball player at Manhattan High School, she now coaches at Manhattan Mamba.
Colby, the youngest, is a determined student-athlete at Kansas Wesleyan University, majoring in Business Management.
A graduate of Manhattan High School, he excelled as a free safety in football during his high school career.
Reportedly, he continued playing football at Kansas Wesleyan as a freshman and a sophomore.
