Lisa & Chay

I first heard about Sticks Training from my sister, Chris Brownlee. Her son, Andrew, a competitive hockey player, has been training with Sticks for several months. My sister and I have had many conversations about how to help our young athletes achieve their goals of becoming stronger both physically and mentally. Since Andrew has been training she has seen an improvement in his game.

Physical fitness has always been a part of our family’s every day life and my husband and I have tried to instill this mind set in our children. I thought what a perfect opportunity to try something new and be able to spend some "special" mom time with my daughter. My daughter Chaylynne, 13, is a competitive soccer player and for two years her coach has told her in order to play at the next level she would need to get stronger. So after having talked with my sister, I thought we would give Sticks a try.

After just a few classes, Chay was playing with a new found attitude, her confidence and self esteem was elevated. She felt she could take on anybody that crossed her path. Parents and coaches complimented her on her play. I on the other hand, couldn’t walk for a week :o) I didn’t have the heart to tell her she would need to train for at least 4 - 6 months to really benefit from her strength training, but wanting to support my daughter's new found attitude and be a role model, we forged on!

As we train together, I want her to learn that these are life skills; from teamwork, confidence building, goal setting, achieving results, to hard work and perseverance! I don’t know how far she will go with soccer, but what she is learning about herself will only help her build a strong foundation and a determination to succeed as a young adult. Also, that staying healthy and active are important your whole life through!! I truly believe this is evident in everything we do in our lives. When you are physically healthy you are also emotionally healthy. I am very proud of Chay, and even though she won’t admit it, I think she is very proud of her mom.

What is also a very positive message for both of us are the women that teach and train at Sticks. Keely and Jen are great role models for women of all ages. They inspire us to live a healthy lifestyle and to make that commitment to taking care of ourselves.

After our first few classes, you recommended that Chay and I take some personal training sessions to learn the proper form for lifts and kettle bell work. Jennifer Murray was our instructor. An accomplished athlete herself, I couldn’t have asked for a better role model for my daughter and myself. Jen was a wonderful teacher as she took us step-by-step through all the lifts and swings. Chay caught on very quickly and mom needed a little more repetition. Jen praised our work effort, tweaked our form, and made us laugh. It was an awesome experience.

On a side note, I would also like to thank you for supporting Chay in her goals. What a special moment when you announced to the "Sticks family" that she had made the State ODP Team for her age group. That meant a lot to her!

Thank you for your expertise, guidance and the professionalism that you and your staff provide.

Lisa McNitt