Merinda has been a life-long athlete, playing club-level soccer since the age of 10. She began coaching soccer during college as an assistant on several youth teams and PT with individuals. Her love of health, athletics, and being active led her to pursue a career in health and fitness. Having two kids 15 months apart inspired her on a personal journey into continuing lifelong fitness and health. Merinda first was introduced to CrossFit in 2008 by a coworker at the gym and has been coaching and training CrossFit ever since.<br /> Merinda holds passion in helping people discover fitness within themselves when they never thought they could. She enjoys seeing people get healthier and fitter and be able to live life. She believes that helping to keep people on the other side of sickness is a rewarding.<br /> Merinda competed in the 2009 CrossFit Games in Aromas, CA at “The Ranch” and also in Carson, CA in the 2010 CrossFit games making it to the team finals in 2010. Merinda continues to compete at smaller level local NW CrossFit competitions today such as Oregon Winter and Summer games. She also enjoys hiking, biking, snowboarding, and an occasional run or mini triathlon.