06/12/2020
Exiting news!
Meet our new coach Dionn Hargreaves 🏴
Dionn has recently completed her British Weightlifting Level 1 course and will be running some classes in the new year when we return to normal.
So I sat her down, we drank coffee and went over some of our favourite Dionn moments.
The Dionn interview;
How long have you been weightlifting and what got you involved?
I got involved when I took a strength and conditioning class and the coach thought I might like Olympic Lifting. I ended up getting introduced to Spartans and started in the beginner’s classes in 2017! I've been lifting ever since
What do you love most about weightlifting?
This is going to sound lame, but I love training with the team. Getting a nice lift on your own is really satisfying but having a big session with everyone and having that atmosphere is what it's all about. Even better when your lifts feel really good and it’s like "I have done all of this work and this is the result, and these are the people I've done it with".
What got you interested in coaching?
Having the very best coach, obviously!
I feel like I was slowly becoming confident enough to throw out some cues and help out people who asked for advice, so I think becoming a coach was the next step. I like helping out!
Favourite weightlifting moment?
My favourite weightlifting moment was our very first in-house competition when I did a terrible sn**ch, and everyone laughed and clapped for me anyway. Really solidified for me that I was with people I loved and that I wanted to hit that weight next time... properly!
Favourite lift?
Jerk! Always Jerk
Favourite lifter?
Only one? In the whole world or out of Spartans?
Can I choose Jess Mellor?
Great to train with, lifts like a queen, gives great hugs. Makes me proud to be part of the Bad Bi***es Club.
Otherwise Mattie Rogers
Any advice for new lifters or people wanting to get involved?
There's something really satisfying in knowing how much weight you can get above your head. It’s almost worth doing it just for curiosity.
What are your training goals for 2021?
For 2021 I'm planning on getting stronger than ever before. I'm taking back the gains 2020 stole! I’m really looking forward to seeing where I can help take the beginners too. It'll be my first year as Coach D so there'll be a lot of firsts, I'm sure.
We are really looking forward to seeing Dionn’s coaching skills develop and build some more strong Spartans! Thanks for getting involved Coach D!