2014 has been a year of many big changes in my life. I left the corporate world to be a full time CrossFit Coach, I became single again after thinking I was with that one, the full time CrossFit gig fell through after a long stressful process and I reluctently found a part time job at a law firm, and now I’ve made the decision (also reluctantly) to leave the gym where I found CrossFit. About three years ago I walked into Ocean State CrossFit nervous and excited. It took all of one workout to fall in love with this sport and this place. I learned quickly that CrossFit is about so much more than just lifting weights and working out, it’s about the community. I’ve seen and been a part of the OSCF community from when we had two coaches and probably 50 members to now that we have more than 10 coaches and over 300 members. OSCF very quickly became a second home and you all became a second family to me.
I sit here and look back and remember my very first days of coaching. I was the first female coach of OSCF on the weekly schedule, and after shadowing Will I started out with one class a week on Friday nights.. the last class of the night at 6:30. Even though it was filled with my friends, I remember I was so nervous. I studied before every class on new ways to break down the movements, and I’m pretty sure I was hard to hear and I maybe even stuttered the first few weeks. It took a little while before I became comfortable and confident in my “coaching skin” and eventually I earned more classes, coaching every weekday. It was when I left my full time “big girl” job to work at the gym full time that I really got to experience coaching for all it has to offer. I was able to meet more athletes I hadn’t had the chance to coach while I was stuck in the 9-5 grind, and really dive into growing as a coach. I started studying for my Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification and also focused on learning and exploring the world of nutrition.

I remember our first events, outings, parties, the good times and the bad times. Hanging out every night at the old box, I never wanted to leave. OSCF got me through some of the lowest and roughest days of my life, and I’ve come out stronger than ever. I’ve seen the growth and development of athletes, some of whom are now coaches themselves. We’ve moved from one building to another and there’s been many coats of paint put on the walls. The thought of the number of hours spent and blood, sweat, and tears I have left in that place makes me feel a little overwhelmed. I want you all to know I gave my all every day I was there, and every time one of you hit a PR or got a new skill… I felt as good, or even better, than had I done it myself.
It was pretty much one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made to leave OSCF. And while it was unexpected, I’m looking at this as an opportunity for me to grow as both a coach and an athlete. It makes me thing of the saying “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable, that’s where the magic happens.” Having to find a new CrossFit home certainly isn’t comfortable, but it’s an opportunity that I plan on making the best out of. I won’t stop doing what I love, and I’m certainly not disappearing. This is the next step on my journey, and like that first day I walked into OSCF and also the first day I put on my OSCF coaches shirt, I am both nervous and excited.

I’m not really sure how to conclude my post. I feel like there is so much to say. I’ve met and coached and worked out along side the most incredible people for the past three years, and I can’t thank all of you enough for everything. You’ve all made my life better, in too many ways to count or say. Â I love each and every one of you, and I look forward to continue seeing you all grow, as athletes and individuals. I’m not going far, and I’m always here if you need something. I’d like the opportunity for us all to get together and have a good time, so I’m inviting you all to Brutopia this coming Friday, September 19th at 8pm. I hope you can come!
You are an amazing coach and person! You have touched so many lives and will continue to do so! You are an inspiration to everyone, including me! 🙂 love you!!
Kerri, Eliana and I both think so highly of you as a person and as a coach and you will be truly missed by us both!
Kerri, I will miss you so very much. I don’t really have the words to express how much your support has meant to me. Best of EVERYTHING to you always!!
I made the Murph pic! my first Murph and an early OSCF workout.
You’re a terrific coach and so glad to have met you.
Kerri,
You have a integral part of my year here at OSCF. You have helped me more than I can express on so many days and I value our friendship greatly. I do wish you all the best life has to offer and I look forward to many other dinners to hear of your new adventures……..thank you!!!
Beth
Im Sad.
Looking forward to hearing about all your new beginnings and adventures.