Mezi Koke

CF-L1 | Teens Coach

When I walked into Gifford Fitness in 2018 at the age of 14, I had no idea how it would affect me.

At that point, I had been a competitive swimmer for 6 years and knew it was the exact opposite of swimming. I quickly realized that there was so much that Gifford Fitness had to offer. It offered community, I built confidence in myself, a home, and I gained so much strength physically and mentally due to the leadership and guidance from my peers and coaches. I grew up in this gym, and I would not be the athlete, student, friend, daughter, and overall person I am today without it.

I want everyone else who walks through these doors to have a similar experience as I did, no matter who they are, where they come from, what their story is, or whatever walk of life they are on. I believe that everyone has a special place in Gifford Fitness, and I am eager to help everyone find their special place. It is more than just CrossFit, and I want everyone to fulfill what this gym has to offer.

Outside of the gym, I am a full-time student at the University of Minnesota studying psychology and nutrition. I still love swimming and CrossFit, and I am very passionate about traveling and seeing the world. I also love being with my friends and family when I have some downtime.