I’ve been in the coaching profession for over 10 years. We just celebrated our 8th year anniversary at MSP Fitness…which is awesome and amazing. I look back over the years and my personal and professional growth has been immense. With that, I acknowledge that this evolution is in part due to a handful of amazing and brilliant people who I’ve surrounded myself with. The phrase “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants” is apropos. I didn’t do this alone, and I am here to take a moment to thank one person in particular.
Beyond my wife Van, who tops this list without question, there is one person who’s impacted me the most in my journey as a professional coach. A great friend and brilliant mentor: James ‘OPT’ FitzGerald. I’ve known James for 7+ years now, initially pursuing him all the way into the true “Great White North” of Calgary, Canada back in 2010 as part of a first group of coaches taking part in his CCP (Coaching Certification Program).
I’m one of a small handful of coaches that have completed all of his Level 1 and Level 2 course work. A number of years ago James relocated his business, OPEX Fitness, from the frozen tundra to Scottsdale, Arizona and I’m here to say that he chose wisely.
If there is a sentence that epitomizes James, it’s that he’s a teacher not a teller. I can relate to that a thousand times over. He truly brings the best out of me. He supports and challenges me to open my eyes and mind to a wider view, allowing me in my time (and in my way) to come to a point of clarity. Having then, the ability to take actions that are in complete harmony with my values and vision around health, fitness, and business.
I just recently came back from Arizona, after spending 2 days with him, and it was brilliant. It wasn’t an easy two days, but it was exactly what I needed. A perfect blend of support and challenge.
Everyone needs a Coach, a Mentor. While this picture isn’t a great image, it’s perfect as the faces say it all. I’m thankful for all that James has done for me, and I hope nothing more than to pay that forward and help others like he’s helped me.
