Crisp air, bonfires, colorful leaves, warm apple cider, pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, and a new Athlete of the Month. This change of the season gives us a new mindfulness and brings our attention to a hardworking member who has been with us for years,
ANDREW WILLIAMS
Andy is well known for his great jokes, love for classic rock and even talks about the fun memories he has listening to it. He has had huge success being with us and has always kept focus on movements he want to get better at. Andy is very coachable and is always a blast to have in class and to have a great conversation with. He has a deep passion for what an impact Tides has had in his life. Now let’s read more about Andy below!
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Tell us about yourself.
My Dad took a job with Whirlpool in ’68 and since then most of my life has been spent in SJ. I have a son age 26 and daughters age 24 & 21. I’ve been blessed to have David “Doc” Brown as one of my closest brothers since we met in 1996. We’ve raised kids and been through a lot together.
How long have you been with Tides and what made you decide to start?
I think November marks 6 years. I was bored working out at the YMCA and one day a CFT postcard showed up in my mailbox. I stopped in on a Friday and Steve Jun was coaching. I knew right away I needed to give it a try it out.
When did you realize this gym was right for you?
When Tim Gean stopping screaming at me… just kidding 
I love the friendliness and inclusive personality of the group. I have appreciated the community that happens at CFT and enjoy getting to meet new members
What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
The great thing about this was my first WOD was an EMOM and I thought “oh, this is pretty cool…” on a Monday evening and then I came in Wednesday at 5:30AM class and the WOD was “Zeus”. Ken Mantai figured out I was new and modified it for me but it was still awful and I couldn’t move for three days…
What is your favorite/least favorite WOD/movements?
Favorite: Overhead squats and toes to bar.
Least favorite: still gotta be burpees
What have you learned since joining Tides?
CF has taught me that I’m capable of more than I thought possible… and also how much concentration it takes to do Olympic lifts.
What is your proudest moment at Tides, or something you accomplished that you never thought you would do?
I had been working hard on improving my snatch to get over the 125 lb hurdle and in the same class got separate compliments from Trey & Dixon that they noticed I was getting better.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
Trying not to fall too far behind Doc… I admit to days when we have 70s & 80s rock going because it brings back memories that distract me from the grit of the WOD. 
How have you seen yourself change- mentally and physically since joining Tides? What impact has CFT had on you in and out of the gym?
I read a lot things online and via the CF emails & have learned a ton about nutrition and exercise. I’m working on making a job change to facilitate more regular participation.
Do you have any advice for people just getting started at Tides?
Keep coming back…you’ll work through the soreness and at some point the lightbulb comes on with the movements. And to geek out, go see the Crossfit Games once – highly motivating and you’ll learn a ton.
When you’re not working out, what is your favorite thing to do?
Spend time with friends and family.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’m thankful for the role CFT has played over the past years which have been challenging. Tides has provided the best way to work through some stress and difficult times.
I appreciate everyone who puts up with Doc and I chatting with you and my bad jokes! Thankful to be part of the family.
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat Meal: Santaniello’s Pizza 
Favorite Musician/Band: usually listening to Springsteen or John
Mayer. More old country since I watched the PBS documentary this year
Favorite Sports Team: Chicago Cubs 
and Michigan State Spartans 
Favorite TV Show/ Movie: “One
Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” or “Good Will Hunting”. Currently binge watching “Yellowstone” with Kevin Costner
Favorite Athlete: Cassius Winston and Zion Williamson