If you've spent any time around Babylon CrossFit, you've probably met Coach Justin. While he may be one of the quieter coaches on our team, those who take the time to get to know him quickly discover why he's become such an important part of our community.
What's funny is that Justin's story with Babylon CrossFit started long before he ever coached a class.
Before moving back home, Justin would stop by Babylon CrossFit as a drop-in whenever he was visiting family. He was always someone we enjoyed having around, and when life eventually brought him and his growing family back to Long Island, he found himself looking for a coaching opportunity. As it turned out, Babylon CrossFit was the perfect fit not only for Justin, but for us as well.
Like many CrossFit coaches, Justin's journey started as an athlete.
"I played soccer my whole life, in college and overseas, and when I was done, I was looking for something to keep me active. I had just moved to Hawaii and lived down the block from a CrossFit gym. I always wanted to see what it was all about. One day I walked over, took a class, and fell in love with it."
That one class changed everything.
What started as a way to stay active after competitive sports quickly became a passion and eventually a career. CrossFit gave Justin a new challenge, a new community, and a new purpose after stepping away from the game that had been such a big part of his life.
"The journey I have taken with CrossFit is something I never would have imagined when I walked in that first day. It became such an important part of my life that I wanted to start coaching."
For Justin, coaching isn't about the workouts, t's about the people.
"I love seeing the progression of athletes, especially those first moments when someone accomplishes something they never thought they were capable of, like getting their first box jump."
It's that perspective that makes Justin such a valuable coach. He understands that success isn't always measured by heavier weights or faster times. Sometimes it's the confidence someone gains when they realize they're capable of more than they thought.
Now, nearly five years into coaching, Justin continues to make an impact on the athletes he works with every day. Recently securing his CrossFit Level 2.
"Coaching was one of the best decisions of my life. CrossFit has given so much to me, and I am incredibly grateful for the doors and opportunities it has opened."
We're grateful those opportunities led him back to Babylon CrossFit.
The next time you see Coach Justin on the floor, take a moment to say hello. Behind the quiet demeanor is someone who genuinely cares about helping others discover what they're capable of and that's exactly the kind of coach we want leading our community.
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