Caring | Honest | Driven
These are the values we hold as a team.
Jay exemplifies “Caring, Honest & Driven” with authenticity and grace.
Jay started coaching at The Hill in May and he couldn’t be a better fit for our team. He opens the doors for our 6am crew and makes sure to have them ready to take on the day. Jay loves yoga, a good dance party and his rambunctious puppy. We are so lucky to have Jay coaching at The Hill!
Let’s get to know Coach Jay a little better…
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? Olympic speed skater, but I probably should have learned how to skate to make that one happen.
Where did you grow up? Overland Park, KS
Favorite class or activity in high school? Broadcasting.
Voted in high school most likely to..? Most likely to change the world (high expectations, I know…).
Most interesting part time job? I worked as a camp counselor in northern Wisconsin one summer in college.
Got any hidden talents? I took a hip hop dance class in college, so I’ve got a few moves I can pull out if the right song comes on. And I can rap all the words to Baby Got Back and HeadBands, and probably most other 2000’s hip hop.
What do you like about KC? BBQ, Boulevard, and the people that call it home!
Coaching: Your Job Title at The Hill. 6am Group Coach
How & when did you get connected to The Hill? When I moved back to KC after college in May of 2018 I knew I wanted to keep coaching and I instantly felt at home with the community at The Hill so here we are!
How long have you been coaching? Since May of 2017.
Why Coach? – what motivates you personally? CrossFit was the first thing that made me think I’m strong, and the physical and mental benefits of that realization have changed my life.
What do you love about your job? First and foremost, the people that I get to work for and with. Seeing people wake up early to work hard in the gym inspires me to be the best coach I can be for them that day. Also, I get to dance and listen to music during work, so that’s pretty awesome too.
What certifications do you hold and which are you most proud of? BS in Kinesiology, CF – L1 and RYT 200. Probably should say I’m proudest of the degree since it cost by far the most!
What continuing ed are you planning or currently doing? Currently completing my Doctorate of Physical Therapy at KU Med, and aiming to get my CrossFit Level-2 by the end of 2019.
How would you describe your coaching style? Laid-back, personal, and encouraging.
What’s something you wish everyone knew about health and fitness? I wish everyone knew that you don’t have to be the fastest or the strongest to fit in at the gym. No one is judging you because we’re all just trying to become the best versions of ourselves, and even just showing up proves that you’re already a badass.
What is something you are working on improving as an athlete personally? Focusing on weightlifting currently, and having a positive mindset going into every workout and lift.
Anything else you would like to share with The Hill family? I’m a new dog dad to a black lab, so if you have any tips on how to get him to stop chewing on everything please let me know.