Each month we highlight a different CFR member using our “Athlete Spotlight,” where we will ask a series of “get to know you” questions. This will help introduce you to the members of our community that you have yet to meet, OR If you have met them, teach you a little more about them! You might just find out something new or something you have in common!
February's “Athlete Spotlight” is Phillip! Phil has been with us for several years now, and his consistency is commendable. Phil typically shows up for class extra early, where you will always find him with his jump rope getting in some double unders. His persistence, work ethic, and willingness to challenge himself has really made him shine through over the last couple years! That is why we are pleased make Phillip our February Spotlight athlete!
Phillip McJunkins
Tell us a little about yourself (background, family, work, etc):
"I moved to Butler 3 ½ years ago to take a position with Armstrong working in product management bringing new products and services to life. Prior to that, I worked for Comcast in Philadelphia for several years in a similar role.
I have a daughter who is a senior at West Chester University. She’s studying psychology but wants to do something in Human Resources.
My household consists of myself and two perpetually hungry cats."
When did you join CF Recreate and what prompted that decision?
"I did fundamentals in December 2017 and started classes in January 2018.
Prior to moving to Butler, I was an avid runner. I would average 30 – 35 miles a week. But since moving to Butler, I haven’t run nearly as much and I needed something to motivate me to exercise more. I wasn’t familiar with CrossFit so I did some research and it seemed like a good route to go. Three years later, I think it was a great decision on my part."
What is your favorite aspect of CrossFit Recreate?
"Not to sound cliché, but the people who go to CrossFit Recreate are some of the best people I have ever met. Everyone is so supportive and I truly enjoy watching others make progress on their goals."
What is your favorite WOD/movement and your least favorite WOD/movement?
"I have a few that I enjoy. Anything with the bar, particularly squat snatches or any type of press. I have a love/hate relationship with double unders. Not a fan of burpees."
Any advice for “newbies” & those looking to try CrossFit?
"Don’t worry what others will think of you. We all have to start somewhere and for some that may mean scaling most of your WoDs. Three years in and I scale a lot WoDs. I have heard from so many people that they’re afraid of what people will think about them because they can’t lift a certain weight or perform a certain movement. Everyone is so supportive and that’s the beauty of CrossFit."
Proudest CrossFit accomplishment(s) so far?
"I have a few. Getting my double unders was huge for me. Hitting 305 on my back squat was another major accomplishment. My butterfly pull-ups are finally starting to come together."
What are your fitness goals for this year?
"Outside of getting in better condition, I want to get my first bar muscle up this year. Also, string my T2Bs."
You’ve done several CF competitions in the past, what is your take-away from those?
"I have really enjoyed them. The atmosphere is surreal. I was disappointed we couldn’t do the competition up in Erie this past year. Matt Drohan has been an awesome partner for these competitions and I feel we have had the best team names over the last few years. We started out as the 49ers, then 502, then Area 51, and finally B52s. We’ll have to get even more creative for our team name next year."
Any additional comments?
"I enjoy the variety that CrossFit offers. There is always something different. Also, I can’t say enough about the people at CrossFit Recreate. The coaches and members are what makes this whole experience enjoyable."
The members at CFR, like Phil, are our biggest asset! This drive sets off a motivational and positive atmosphere that everyone feeds off of. Phil's consistent hard work is paying off, as we've seen big improvements in his lifts this past year. As of late, Phil's butterfly pull ups are really coming together. Keep up the great work!
Eager to learn more about our awesome members? Be on the lookout for next month’s Athlete Spotlight!
