Our Coaches
We take fitness seriously and we demand a lot of our coaches. Our primary goal is to provide an amazing coaching & class experience for our members. Thus, our Coaches must be “The Best” at what they do: Coaching. We require 160 hours of Observing & Assisting under the guidance of our veteran Coaches. They also need to keep up their coaching, nutrition, and functional movement education through our partner Madlab. Madlab is a leader in continuing education and certifications for Fitness, Nutrition, and Kinesiology. We also provide mandatory training on all aspects of coaching: from one-on-one sessions to effective group classes. And we require our coaches to “practice what they preach.”
Every coach on our staff, including the owners, were doing CrossFit on their own before becoming a coach with Crossfit Pleasanton. Our coaches know what the customer experience is like because they were all clients. They are passionate about fitness, nutrition and the CrossFit methodology. They constantly searching for information, videos, books, and blogs on everything related to fitness, nutrition, CrossFit and weight lifting. They pursue new Certifications every year. They compete regularly in CrossFit, Olympic lifting competitions, triathlons, 10ks, Marathons, and more. Their reward is your results. Go ahead, ask them any question you have we are here for you.
ZOLTAN HITES
CROSSFIT COACH / OWNER (CF LEVEL 2)
As a former professional tennis player, Zoltan spent most of his childhood on a tennis court. But as a kid, he also played football, basketball and soccer. At 12 years old, Zoltan decided tennis was the sport for him and never looked back. He had an impressive junior career which led him to play seven years on the ATP Tour traveling all over the world playing on the some of the biggest stages in tennis. During his years playing professional tennis, he was trained in the areas of physical fitness, sports psychology and weightlifting by the best in the world. After his professional tennis career, Zoltan taught tennis for 14 years. He coached high level national and world ranked players as well as young kids and senior clients. He’s also managed two different Country Clubs and Director of Tennis at various clubs throughout the Bay Area. In these roles, he gained the experience of running large facilities with huge member bases and the knowledge of how to manage successful fitness facilities, making sure that member’s needs are meet. 11 years ago, Zoltan discovered Crossfit and functional fitness and could not get enough. He totally believes that CrossFit is the best way for anyone to reach their physical potential and the most efficient way to reach any fitness goal. In fact, he wishes he had been doing Crossfit when he was playing professional tennis; it would have given him an edge over the competition for sure. Eventually, Zoltan turned his love of Crossfit into a second career and began coaching Crossfit. When the opportunity to own and manage a Crossfit facility presented itself to him, he jumped at the chance with zero hesitation. In his mind, it is just like running a Country Club with the only difference being that the community is tighter and more like-minded and the service we provide can really improve people’s daily lives. Zoltan loves CFP and the loyal membership. He truly wants to give the gift of fitness to anyone that wants to get challenge themselves to be their strongest, best self.
KRISTIN HITES
CROSSFIT COACH / OWNER (CF LEVEL 1)
Kristin has been an athlete her entire life. She played many sports growing up from Soccer, gymnastics, Swimming, and more. The one that she loved the most was Basketball. She play all through high school playing on Varsity as a freshman through her senior year. Kristin is very passionate about nutrition and the mobility modalities of Yoga and Pilates. She brings these into her coaching everyday.
DR. MARK KORANSKY
DIRECTOR OF SPORT/CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 2)
Mark Koransky fell in love with CrossFit in 2017 and has never looked back. After a lifetime of working out and lifting heavy weights, he found the variability and intensity of CrossFit to be exactly what he was looking for. As a full-time General Surgeon, he was invited in 2017 by CrossFit Hq to be one of the first physicians to take the Level 1 Certificate Course as part of CrossFit’s attempts to educate medical doctors about the benefits of CrossFit and proper nutrition. He subsequently obtained the Level 2 Coach designation. Coach Mark is CrossFit specialty certified in both weightlifting and gymnastics. He has completed the CrossFit Online Training Courses: Programming, Lesson Planning, Spot the Flaw, Scaling, and Judging. After years of competing in the Open and Age Group Qualifier/Quarter Finals he became the Director of Sport for the gym helping to coordinate several in-gym and local competitions. He is passionate about trying to help you reach your fitness and health goals with a special interest in advanced skill-building.
LISA CORTI
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 2)
Lisa dabbled in sports through school, such as track, basketball, and volleyball. It wasn’t until she got her first gym membership at 19 that she fell in love with fitness. In 2007, Lisa joined a local Crossfit gym and she was hooked on the constantly varied workouts. Lisa ended up taking a sabbatical due to work but continued to workout and maintain her fitness as her health has always been a priority. Lisa found herself drawn back to the community aspect of Crossfit in 2015 after finishing her career in law enforcement. Since 2015, she has gotten increasingly stronger, leaner, and has increased her engine/cardio capacity. Lisa took her love for Crossfit to the next level and started coaching in 2020 and is now a CF L2 Coach. Lisa loves being able to share what she has learned with others and to see others excel in this sport.
NICK CORTI
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
Nick played all varieties of sports growing up but developed a passion for weight training. Nick joined CrossFit from 2007 - 2009 and then trained at the local bodybuilding gym until 2020, when he made his return to CrossFit and hasn’t looked back. “CrossFit has taken my fitness and strength to a level the regular gym could not!”. Nick was a police officer for 19 years and following his retirement became a coach at CrossFit Pleasanton. Nick taught almost every aspect of law enforcement training so teaching is not only a passion but comes natural. Nick has been a coach at CrossFit Pleasanton since 2022. “I love being able to help people grow and overcome obstacles not just in the gym but in all aspects!”
CAREY NASSAR
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 2)
From the age of 19, fitness has been a priority in Carey's life. She completed several marathons (including the Boston Marathon), a few triathlons and was consistent with traditional weight training in a globo gym for 20+ years. In 2010 she walked into Crossfit Pleasanton. Initially she was humbled which then turned into inspiration. Crossfit taught her strength, stamina, mobility, posture, etc. In 2018, she took the Level 1 course just to improve her own crossfit journey. When the owner of CFP, Zoltan, found out she had her Level 1 certification he persuaded her to coach. Coaching has been the biggest blessing in her life. Carey loves interacting with and helping people along their crossfit journey. She is currently Level 2 certified and has completed the Nutrition and Judging online training courses.
JESSE BURDICK
HEAD POWER LIFTING COACH
With over 20 years of experience, Jesse Burdick stands as one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after Strength and Conditioning Experts. He has directly collaborated with high school, collegiate, MLB, NFL, NBA, UFC, and Bellator athletes, contributing to the success of 10 all-time world record-holding powerlifters while raising three daughters with his wife and business partner, Katie Hogan. As a dedicated student of the field, Jesse’s credential collection once rivaled the length of his full name. His commitment to fitness and education, combined with an unwavering desire to help others realize their potential, underpins his noteworthy achievements. A former NCAA Division I baseball player and semi-pro competitor in Canada, Upstate New York, and California, Jesse presently excels as an Elite-level powerlifter in five weight classes, boasting remarkable lifts of 909 pounds (squat), 628 pounds (bench), and 820 pounds (deadlift). Having earned Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and Criminal Justice, Jesse contemplated law school before choosing to pursue his true passion in the fitness industry. Over the past 15 years, he has distinguished himself as an NSCA Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Further certifications include Licensed Massage Therapist and Active Release Techniques Level II certification. Collaborating with Mark Bell at Westside alongside powerlifting pioneer Louie Simmons, Jesse has transitioned to full-time leadership at Powerwod Strength Seminars, where he coaches a diverse range of clients, including his powerlifting team, world-record holders, and individuals striving for success in health and fitness. Jesse’s evolving expertise in human anatomy and keen insight into the dynamic fitness industry empower him to craft tailored programs for clients seeking weight loss or athletes preparing for competition. His passion for his profession is a rare find. Founder of the Prevail Powerlifting Team and Owner/Operator of PowerWOD, Jesse conducts training at CrossFit Pleasanton in Pleasanton, CA.
TERRY BURKE
CORRECTIVE MOVEMENT SPECIALIST (CF LEVEL 1)
Terry’s love for fitness started during his time in the Navy as Rescue Swimmer. After he got out of the Navy Terry went to National Personal Trainer Institute where he obtained his Personal Training Certification, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Weight Loss Specialist, and Performance Enhancement Specialist certifications. On September 11th he attended the CrossFit Level 1 course in order to further his knowledge and his career in the fitness industry. He’s very excited about being a CrossFit Coach and is looking forward to making you the best athlete you can be.
KATHLEEN JOHNSON
TEEN&KIDS / ROWING COACH (CF LEVEL 2)
Kathleen was a swimmer, collegiate water polo player and nationally ranked rower. In graduate school she took up running and completed her first marathon. After college she taught private and public school, coaching Cross-Country, Track and Field, Swimming and Cheer and Dance Team. Kathleen started CrossFit when her then 13 year old daughter saw video of the CrossFit Games and said, “Mom, I want to do that!” As a lifetime cardio athlete, the bar was new to her, but by consistent training and following appropriate macros, she lost 20 pounds, gained muscle mass, and improved every aspect of her fitness. Kathleen and her three children compete in local competitions, Northern California Classic and she was a 2023 quarterfinalist. She coaches our Teens, has developed our Kids Program at CFP, and has obtained her CrossFit Level 1, 2 and Gymnastics certifications.
LOKESH VISHVAKARMA
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 2)
Lokesh grew up playing school sports but he started to take his fitness journey seriously in 2015 when he pursued bodybuilding and found a passion for proper nutrition. He was first introduced to Crossfit back in 2018 when another CFP member invited him to try out a Crossfit Open workout and he immediately fell in the love with the culture. The intensity of the Open combined with the amount of support and excitement coming from the rest of the CFP community led him to becoming a member in 2019. Since then he's participated in the Open every year and has gone on to compete in various Crossfit competitions. His passion for Crossfit and helping others reach their goals led him to being a CF-L2 coach at CFP! "My favorite part about being a coach is the ability to meet people where they're at and helping them get 1% better every time they step inside the gym!"
TIFFANY LEUNG
POWER LIFTING COACH
Tiffany has 10 years of personal training experience. She is passionate about fitness and enjoys training clients of all ages and walks of life. She is especially fired up to teach women and youth how to lift weights and become stronger. She grew up playing soccer at Cal High and for Pleasanton Rage. Soccer led her to powerlifting while at San Jose State University. Tiffany held All time world records in squat (314lbs) and total (804lbs)for powerlifting in her weight class (97lbs) and has podium at nationals every year she has competed, placing as high as 3rd. She is the first powerlifter to total 800lbs weighing 97lbs. She also competes in Weightlifting, she placed 2nd at the American Open Series 2 in 2023 and competed at American Open Finals 2023.
Erik Larson
CROSSFIT / OLY COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
Erik is a Crossfit Level 1 Certified coach from Santa Cruz, California. A CFP Competition Group member and Crossfit competition veteran, Erik is quick to remind you that he started 40 lbs overweight and continues to work on improving his own fitness. Having spent many years as a teacher in private college and other settings, Erik has been compelled to share his teaching experience along with his love of Crossfit with other CFP members. Erik employs a work hard/play hard mentality that proves it is possible to have fun while improving fitness and health. Additionally, Erik believes an obsessive focus on technique, discipline, and consistency is key to achieving your goals. Beginning his Crossfit journey in order to improve his skills as an American Football receiver, Erik has transitioned to Crossfit as his main physical outlet.
Caron Knight
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
Caron Knight is a long-time resident of Pleasanton. She played multiple sports growing up including soccer, softball, and basketball. She played on the basketball team for both Pleasanton Middle school and Foothill High school making varsity her freshman year. She graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in kinesiology and a minor in nutrition. She has been a member of CrossFit Pleasanton since 2009. Caron is an amazing athlete, her knowledge of sports and movements is a great asset to our team.
ALEX DE CAMPO
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
Alex is a sports minded and health conscious person who has a genuine interest in helping others and seeing people succeed. Start by helping ourselves master our attitude and body, and then become the instrument or catalyst to get others to do the same or even better. As an athlete, he’s competed as wrestler at Granada high school and placed 3rd in the state of Ca. As a Junior. He competes and races dirt bikes as an Expert rider(A-class) in the District 36 AMA As a coach, he returned to his high school to become the Junior varsity coach for a year. He has taught as an Inferno Hot Pilates instructor for 3 years at a popular yoga studio. He currently coaches at CFP with a Level 1 certification and loves the coaching and community. He also plays volleyball, softball, ping pong. He loves spending time outdoors camping, riding dirt bikes or just hanging out w/family and friends around an open fire. Alex is always looking forward to meeting new people and building new friendships. Come by and say hi.
JEREMY AVILLA
POWER LIFTING COACH
Jeremy is a world-class Elite powerlifting competitor, Strength and Conditioning program manager at multiple schools, and an Adaptive Athletics coach specializing in bringing fitness to neurodiverse children and teens. He grew up playing football with MVP honors, held a record for the lightest person to ever total 2100 lbs (in a squat, bench, and deadlift total), is one of the top 5 deadlifters in the world, and has been ranked as high as #3 internationally for his weight class in powerlifting. Recognizing that an exposure to training and fitness as a child or teen has an astoundingly beneficial impact on confidence, health, and social dynamics, Jeremy brings a passion for fitness and a kind, encouraging demeanor when working with his clients. He has worked in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District for the past 4 years, running Cal High’s Strength program and most recently as Monte Vista’s Strength and Conditioning Program for all levels. He is the Physical Education Program Director at Core Academy, a private school for neurodiverse children in grades 3rd to 8th. Jeremy is available for private and small group sessions.
NICK KAO
CROSSFIT / MOBILITY COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
I’m Nick Kao, I’m an Army veteran and currently pursuing a degree in math at UC Berkeley. Ever since I joined the military I’ve been a firm believer in a healthy mind and a healthy body and eventually I was put in charge of my unit’s PRT (Physical Readiness Training) Program where I helped soldiers maintain their physical standards. After the military, I reentered college and was introduced to CrossFit. Originally I majored in math and kinesiology as I wanted to incorporate health and wellness with solid data and mathematical models. I eventually got my Level 1 certification in CrossFit and I’m working towards an NASM certification on my spare time from college. I’m particularly interested in mobility and rehab. I like working with others to restore range of motion and improve body mechanics.
MICHAEL EGGERLING
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
Michael spent 15 years lifting weights alone in the gym before discovering Crossfit in 2015. He was hooked immediately by the intensity, competitiveness, and camaraderie. After a couple of years of focusing and improving in the sport, he had shifted from a one-dimensional weight lifter to a well-rounded Crossfitter and could many things athletically he had never done before. Michael started coaching at Stoneway Crossfit in Seattle, WA in 2017 and was hooked again. "I love seeing people's health and fitness stories develop just like mine did. As a coach, I've seen so many lives changed by this incredible sport." He joined Pleasanton Crossfit's coaches in 2023 when he and his wife Teresa and kids Olivia and Bennett moved to Livermore. Outside of the gym, Michael is a marketing executive, working primarily for tech startups.
KYLIE JOHNSON
KIDS COACH
Kylie’s athletic background included Cross-Country, Track and Field, Swimming, Soccer, Gymnastics and Jujitsu. When she was unable to train Jujitsu due to her gym’s Covid-induced closure, she lead her family to CFP, where she quickly grew stronger and increased her skills, qualifying for quarterfinals her first Open Season. She took advantage of all the coaching expertise at CFP and trained hard to place 25th Worldwide, and win Northern California Classic, both for her Age-Group. Kylie has assistant coached Jujitsu classes and began assistant coaching the Kids Classes in July of 2023. In December, she began coaching her own class once a week.
WOODY QUEEN
CROSSFIT COACH (CF LEVEL 1)
Woody is a Crossfit Level 1 coach that has called Pleasanton home since 2003. He played just about every sport growing up but focused more on basketball after college. College was also when he started to lift weights more seriously. As he got older, he got bored with the standard gym lifting sessions and was introduced to Crossfit in 2014 through a friend and has been hooked ever since. What started as a way to be more fit for basketball has now become his primary fitness focus. He is another of our gym's master's athletes and twice been a top 100 age group quarterfinal athlete placing 50th in 2021. He coached a ton of youth sports (basketball, lacrosse, soccer and softball) with his two daughters and coaches kids, teens and adult classes at CFP.
