Morgan VanDenBerg

Where you are from and about you: I was born and raised in southwest Michigan, originally Paw Paw and now Kalamazoo. I am 23 years old and am currently a Western student studying Criminal Justice and ASL.  I have been an athlete my entire life and growing up in a big family made for lots of friendly competition. I was a big runner in my day, (not so much anymore!) and began weightlifting at 17. I played volleyball, basketball and even dabbled in musical theater. I wanted to try and do everything, and do it to the best of my ability. When high school came to an end, I needed an outlet for my active/competitive side, and CrossFit gave me that and more than I could have ever imagined.

How you started at CrossFit Torrent and what made you transition into coaching: I have been exclusively crossfitting for over 4 years now, and have been coaching for 2 of those years. After becoming a CrossFit athlete I quickly realized that coaching was something I was passionate about. So I decided to pursue my L1. There, at that seminar, is where decided I was hooked. I am new to the Tides/Torrent family and cannot be more grateful and excited to be a part of such an incredible team.

My favorite part of being a coach is… There’s a moment. Every new athlete has one… where they finally reach a goal that they thought was impossible. From a double under to a bodyweight back squat to a pull-up, or even hitting their nutrition goals or rehabbing an injury. And for the first time, (first of many) they have a moment, where their face says it all. I CAN do this. I CAN be an athlete. I CAN do what thought was impossible just a few months ago. I live for those moments. I became a coach for those moments.

Favorite WOD: Diane

Favorite Movement: Power Cleans

Go-to Healthy snack: Honey/flaxseed/oat/peanut butter- energy balls (Home recipe! Nom nom)

Cheat day favorite: Mint ice cream

If I am not at CFT you can find me: Hiking, snowboarding, reading, hanging with my friends and family, trying new sports (softball leagues, rock climbing-works in progress), playing with my pup, Bailey, and eating peanut butter.

Qualifications

• CrossFit Level 1
• CrossFit Spot the Flaw Certificate
• CPR/AED Certified

Experience

• CrossFit Coach 2 years
• Kids / Teens Coach

7 Fun Facts About Morgan

1. I love Rollos

2. Grew up in a daycare.

3. I have vitiligo

4. Pat Vellner is my favorite games athlete.

5. I can’t cook.

6. I love purple. Purple hair purple clothes purple everything.

7. I have 4 tattoos