February 2020 Athlete of the Month - Assumpta Tucker

In the midst of the global pandemic, I want to share with everyone something inspirational and uplifting. Our fitness community has been incredible and absolutely relentless in giving up on the progress that has been made inside and outside the gym. Now, I would like to spotlight our February Athlete of the Month. Congratulations Assumpta! Its been about a year since you joined the gym and I took you through the one on one elements sessions. When Terry told me he was bringing in a friend to join, I wasn’t sure if he was serious (since he is joking half the time.) After the first elements, I knew you’d be a good fit. You were happy with where you were training and you knew what you wanted. It’s great to see a focuses and driven person come in and acclimate well. I know Assumpta as a hustler outside the gym as well. She works in realty as well as manages Jetty a couple nights a week and bartends. Shes a year or two older than me and is from Ireland. She grew up riding horses and playing gaelic football. That’s not something many of us can relate to. It’s pretty awesome to learn this though and realize how diverse our community is. She’s got a great heart and great sense of humor (always going back and forth with the guys (Terr Bear, Matty Dunne and John Garrity.)
It was not a hard decision to name Assumpta the February Athlete of the Month. However, there have been quite a few members displaying the commitment, work ethic and dedication we look for in this honor.

Written by: Coach Rob Moloney

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Q&A
Why you started Crossfit?
I started CrossFit after becoming tired of my same old gym routine. The competitor in me needed more of a challenge. My good friend Terry Sloan spoke highly of CrossFit Island Park. He convinced me it would be a great fit for me. 

What’s your background? (Athletic)
I have been athletic my entire life. Growing up in Ireland I played on every sports team available to me. Eventually narrowing it down to Gaelic Football(mix of rugby and soccer) cross country and track & field. I have also been an equestrian since I could walk. I competed in any sporting events that allowed my horse!! 

How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing CrossFit?
I have been doing CrossFit since I became a member a little over a year ago.

What is your favorite thing about the gym?
It's impossible to narrow it down to just one, but the environment in general. When you walk in, there is such a positive atmosphere and you can leave all your stresses at the door.  

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
When i joined the gym I had been struggling with shoulder and neck problems for about 2 years. I had been to orthopedists, chiropractors and everything in between, nothing helped. Dr. Jeremy called me out on it in class one day. I took his advice got treated and followed his programming. I haven't looked back since. I've spent any extra time i have at the gym working on his program. In return I am far stronger than I ever thought possible and feel so much better. Not only physically, but also mentally. Thank you, Dr. Jeremy!

What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Definitely achieving something I have been working on. Or seeing my teammates reach their goals. It's a very rewarding feeling. 

What's your favorite "cheat" food?
Red wine.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Do It. Don't second guess it. Just walking through the door is the hardest part. I assure you CrossFit Island Park will exceed all your expectations. 

What drives you?
Living a healthy lifestyle drives me. Since joining CrossFit I have became a much stronger and confident person in and out of the gym.   

What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Strict pull ups are top of the list. Getting better at weightlifting is also my long term goal.In finishing, I am beyond honored to be chosen as athlete of the month. How far I have come since joining the gym is a reflection of Rob's strategic programming and all the coaches dedication to making me a better athlete. Thank you all for pushing me past my limits to reach my goals. Since Rob announced I was athlete of the month, having my 11am teammates and all the other members (some of whom I hadn't yet met), congratulate me, is very rewarding. Thank you all for motivating me, and making going to the gym my favorite part of the day! 

Lastly, I want to give my good friend Terry a shout-out. Thank You for convincing me to join, then abandoning me after day one. It forced me to meet new friends and completely outshine you. Love you buddy.