MEET THE TEAM OR LEVEL UP YOUR SKILLS BY HIRING A PT

Home 9 OUR COACHES

MEET THE TEAM

Meet the dedicated coaches and staff behind your CrossFit journey. Passionate, experienced, and driven to help you reach your goals—get to know the team that will push, inspire, and support you every step of the way!

DAN
HEAD COACH & OWNER

With a background in mixed martial arts before retiring in 2012, I never imagined becoming a coach or gym owner ten years ago—but now, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I see our members as family and embrace CrossFit’s principle of ‘Virtuosity,’ aiming to do the common uncommonly well. My training philosophy is simple: consistency and effort matter more than perfection—just show up, push yourself, and trust the process.

  • CrossFit Level 1 Certified
  • CrossFit Level 2 Certified
  • CrossFit Level 3 Certified
  • CrossFit Gymnastics Certified
  • CrossFit Kids Certified
  • British Weightlifting Level 1
  • Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Advanced Kettlebell Instructor
  • Gym-based Boxing Coach
  • Group Cycling Instructor (spin)
JC
LEAD COACH

James is a dedicated full-time coach at CrossFit Fort Ashton with nearly a decade of experience training individuals and athletes alike. His coaching journey began in 2009 as an intern at CrossFit Bath, and over the years, he has worked with a wide range of clients across Bristol and Bath. In 2016, he joined the Fort Ashton team, and in 2017, he made history by becoming the UK’s first Block One Power Athlete Coach after completing his training in Austin, Texas.

  • CrossFit Level 1 Certified
  • CrossFit Level 2 Certified
  • UK Block One Power Athlete Coach
  • Crossfit Olympic Lifting Certified
  • Crossfit Gymnastics Certified
  • Crossfit Football Certified
  • Level 3 Personal Trainer
JESS
COACH

Jess found her passion for CrossFit in 2015 and was instantly drawn to the sport. Just a year later, she began her coaching journey, gaining experience at several gyms across Bristol. She also took on the rewarding role of running CrossFit kids programs, helping to inspire the next generation. In recent years, Jess broadened her horizons by coaching in Bali, where she worked alongside world-class athletes and continued to develop her skills and expertise.

  • CrossFit Level 3 certified
  • CrossFit Gymnastics
  • CrossFit Kids
  • British Weightlifting Level 1
  • Personal Trainer Level 3
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1
ADS
COACH

With a background in competitive swimming, football, rugby, and solo cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats, I discovered CrossFit seven years ago and quickly turned my passion into part-time coaching. Though part-time, CrossFit is a major part of my life. I believe fitness should be fun, and I love helping Fort Ashton members push their limits, smile through the sweat, and enjoy every step of their fitness journey.

  • CrossFit Level 1 Certified
  • CrossFit Level 2 Certified
  • Level Three Personal Trainer
ELLIOTT
COACH

I started coaching at Fort Ashton in 2023 after a year of shadowing experienced coaches, which shaped my energetic, hands-on style. My CrossFit journey began in 2020 after completing a marathon, and I was instantly hooked by the challenge and community. I’m all about creating a fun, high-energy environment—cranking the tunes, spreading good vibes, and supporting members through every lift, laugh, and personal best along the way.

  • CrossFit Level 1 Certified
  • Olympic Weightlifting Level 2
  • Personal Training level 3
SAFAA
COACH

Safaa discovered Functional Fitness in 2015 back home in Amman, Jordan, and was instantly hooked. Since then, it’s become a cornerstone of her life—empowering her to pursue her passions, from long-distance cycling on her beloved road bike, Za’atar, to multi-day mountain hikes. Now living in Bristol, she’s excited to explore the stunning countryside. As a new mum, Safaa is also preparing to offer pre- and postnatal fitness classes very soon!

  • CrossFit Level 2 Certified
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1
  • Pre & Post Natal
SARA
COACH

I grew up in west central Scotland and wasn’t sporty at all! I found fitness as a young adult through running, then found CrossFit Fort Ashton in 2017, drawn in by the community and the coaching. I started coaching part-time in 2025 and co-founded Fort Ashton Runners in January 2026. I bring energy, encouragement and attention to detail to every session, with a focus on movement quality and confidence. I love helping members achieve things they didn’t think they were ready for!

  • CrossFit Level 1 Certified
  • CrossFit Running Certified
ABBIE
COACH

Abbie joined CrossFit Fort Ashton in 2022 and quickly fell in love with the training style and community spirit. Inspired by her own journey, she began an internship in 2024 and now coaches part-time on evenings and weekends. Passionate about helping others, Abbie enjoys seeing members challenge themselves and grow, finding joy in watching people discover their own love for CrossFit just as she did when she first started.

  • CrossFit Certified 1 Certified

EMMA BASSEY

COMMUNITY MANAGER

Emma officially joined the team in 2023, though she’s been part of our CrossFit family on and off since we first opened. A long-time believer in the benefits of CrossFit training, Emma brings both passion and experience to her role at the gym.

As our Community Manager, Emma plays a vital role in making sure every member feels welcome and supported. She oversees all onboarding for new members, helping them settle in and feel confident from day one. She’s also the go-to person for our existing community—ensuring everyone has access to the resources, support, and information they need to get the most out of their training.

Whether it’s answering questions, organising events, or just checking in for a chat, Emma is at the heart of our gym culture—fostering connection, motivation, and a true sense of belonging.

BECOME A COACH AT CROSSFIT FORT ASHTON

Passionate about CrossFit and coaching? Join our team! We offer mentorship, career growth, and a supportive community. Apply today and take the next step in your coaching journey with us!

WHY COACH WITH US?

CrossFit’s ethos wasn’t created in a marketing meeting—it emerged naturally from its methodology. Its values, from integrity to resilience, are ingrained in how the community trains, competes, and grows together.

WHY COACH WITH US?

We’re searching for passionate, driven individuals who: 1) Have a deep love for CrossFit and functional fitness. 2) Are eager to learn and continuously improve. 3) Have strong communication and leadership skills. 4) Thrive in a team environment and enjoy supporting others.

WHY COACH WITH US?

To coach at Crossfit Fort Ashton, you’ll need:
Minimum Requirement: CrossFit Level 1 Trainer (CF-L1). Preferred Qualifications: CrossFit Level 2+, weightlifting, gymnastics, or mobility training certifications. First Aid & CPR certification. Don’t have your certification yet? We offer mentorship and development opportunities for aspiring coaches!

COACH DEVELOPMENT

We believe in ongoing learning and development. As a coach with us, you’ll have access to: 1) Mentorship from experienced trainers. 2) Continued education through workshops and courses. 3) Opportunities to progress from assistant coach to full-time coaching roles.

BENEFITS

Competitive pay. Free gym membership and access to all classes. Professional development and certification support. A welcoming, supportive team and amazing community.

HOW TO APPLY

Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to apply: Send your CV and a brief cover letter to coaching@crossfitfortashton.com. Tell us about your coaching experience and why you want to join our team. If shortlisted, we’ll invite you for a trial coaching session.