Connor and his mom, Patty, worked together to answer the following questions:
When did you first start doing CrossFit?
February 2011
Favorite WOD?
Anything with pull ups or box jumps
Least Favorite WOD?
Not sure this applies to Connor since we’ve never seen him do a WOD without a smile on his face.
Favorite Lift?
Push press
Least Favorite Lift?
Again, wearing a constant smile and accepting of learning and performing, Connor doesn’t really have a ‘least’ favorite lift.
Tell us a little bit about yourself (family, job, sports, interests, etc.).
Connor is 18 years old and attends the Comprehensive Learning Center for individuals with autism. He works 3 days a week for 2 different doctors, runs track with Special Olympics, loves going to the movies and talking to his many friends nat CBCF about some of his favorite movies. At any kids class on a Saturday morning you’ll be sure to hear Coach Dan talking to him about Stand By Me and A Fish Called Wanda.
What were you doing before CrossFit?
Before starting CrossFit at CBCF, Mike and I spent years trying to find an activity that Connor truly enjoyed. Nothing ever seemed meaningful or enjoyable until he started CrossFit. This was the first activity that Connor loved and wanted to continue.
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?
I could tell by the smile on his face and his eagerness to return that CrossFit was the right fit for Connor. He couldn’t wait to go back and still looks forward to each wod with the same enthusiasm as he did when he first started.
What were your goals for Connor when joining CrossFit?
Our goals were for Connor to follow Coach Mike’s directions and enjoy himself. Something that may seem simple to most but can be a daunting task for a person with autism.
Please tell us about achieving those goals?
It’s an amazing feeling, as parents of a child with special needs, to have him look at the whiteboard and feel confident that he knows what the movements are and can complete a wod with confidence. The look of pride on Connor’s face is priceless!
What are some of Connor’s best WOD times/ achievements inside the gym?
I think his 44″ box jump and kipping pull ups are among his greatest achievements so far!
Do you have any other special memories/ achievements during your time here?
Doing the AMRAP for Autism WOD with AJ was a special moment for Connor, AJ and the entire CBCF community.
What advice would you give to a newbie just joining Central Bucks CrossFit?
Always smile through the WOD!
Something you might not know about me is?
Connor just ran his fastest mile this summer in 7:17!
*Coach’s notes: It has been an absolute joy as a coach and a friend to have Connor in our program. Watching him mature as an athlete and peer to others has been inspiring. I would venture to say that I’ve learned much more from Connor than he has learned from CrossFit. The community as a whole just wouldn’t be the same without his presence. From the kids to the adults, he truly is loved by all and a true testament of what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. Love ya, buddy!