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My family moved to Springfield, MO in 1987 to start a family business, where I grew up and eventually met my amazing wife, Jennifer, in college. We have been married for 18 years, and have 3 kiddos. I am so blessed! Although CrossFit Republic is so much more than fitness, I’ll start with a quick athletic background, which was a contributor to opening this gym.
I funded my college education with Track & Field and academic scholarships, becoming a National Champion in the 400m dash and being inducted into my college Hall of Fame. After college I wanted something that continued to challenge me. I heard about this new fitness program called CrossFit and helped bring it to the midwest area. Shortly after, I decided to start CrossFit Republic which was 10 years ago, and now as a 14 year Crossfitter and coach, I have been able to compete against the top in the world in the international CrossFit Open and in the CrossFit games, and enjoy coaching all types of people from all walks of life..
But as the seasons change, I have opted out of competing at the next level to spend time with family and focus on being a husband, dad, business man, and serving in the community. Life is busy but blessed! This story was one of a few written by the Crossfit Games back in my competitive days. Balance is everything! Family Man
Currently as the owner, I write the programming (daily workouts) for CrossFit Republic and have had several clients off site for remote coaching fitness and nutrition programs over the years. I have several certifications, with approximately 20 years of PT experience, am a 10 year sponsored athlete for 1st Phorm Supplements, and have a deep background in Nutrition, so I can coach friends, family, and clients on daily health & fitness.
Outside of the gym, I am the Chief Operations Officer at our 35 year old family business with 9 retail locations, am the Director of the Republic Chamber of Commerce representing local business aiming to create jobs and economic growth in our area by fostering the human spirit and the American Dream. I also serve on many non-profit boards in the area…enjoying every minute of it. I feel very blessed.
Before any accolade, I’ll say that the fitness regimen and results of CrossFit are not the main factors that drive me… it’s the people, the community as great fitness results is just a by-product. As a business, if we don’t use this large platform we’ve been blessed with to positively influence this community, to give to the less fortunate, and give our best energy to the people around us, none of it holds lasting value. This journey is so much more than personal gain, it’s the chance to learn, grow, and be inspired from others on a daily basis. It’s the chance to speak life into others and lift others up, to give rather than receive, and to encourage those around us to be the best versions of themselves in their everyday life, physically and mentally outside of the gym.
With a constantly varied and fun fitness program, Crossfit has been that long term enjoyable challenge where everyday is different, and where I’m excited to motivate and encourage others to achieve their goals.
Lastly, I will say that my faith and family are the most important things in my life, and am excited to always share life with the community of Republic! God Bless!
Links to personal articles – CrossFit Games // WODshop // Blog