Some Testimonials
My class is one of the three classes that go to FAM™ every Thursday. I was there when the programme first started for our WVSS Senior Satellite neurodiverse learners and it has been such a positive and rewarding experience for them since. Our students look forward to their workout every week, not only for the incredible programme that is provided but to be around Michael's positive and fun energy. His understanding, patience, compassion and sense of humour lifts their physical and emotional wellbeing. Our students have thrived with this programme and we would be thrilled that they are given the opportunity to continue to be a part of it.
The students in our two WSCW groups love coming to FAM. There are a number of students who have made huge progress in their independence and physical development as a result of FAM. Those who were reasonably physically able and independent have been able to continue to develop their skills. I really appreciate that the activities provided by the coach are able to be tailored to our students
physical and cognitive abilities. Thank you very much.really appreciate that the activities provided by the coach are able to be tailored to our students
physical and cognitive abilities. Thank you very much.
We sincerely hope to be a part of the programme next year. Thanks FAM for everything
Our high school students at Oaklynn have made huge progress with their fitness skills this year with attending weekly FAM sessions during school term. The program is all-inclusive for all abilities, and whilst repetition is really important for our students, there were one or two new exercises each week which made it less overwhelming for our students and they could keep progressing. Having fun with friends and getting fit has been incredible for our students and we really hope the program can continue for our students well being. A huge thank you to AMCT and FAM for making this opportunity possible for our students, participation in a community activity at its best.
November 2023 - Oaklynn Special School
FAM™ provides a wonderful Crossfit program that has been adapted to meet the needs of our students (special needs). Michael is always incredibly enthusiastic and has involved all students including those with physical, emotional, intellectual and behaviour challenges. Every single students who has attended the program becomes fitter, stronger, and more flexible, and is able to achieve a much higher standard in physical education than our school can provide.
I have been a client of Michael's since 2017. My personal training session quickly became a highlight of my week. Being nonverbal and severely disabled makes it difficult for me to communicate and do specific movements. However, Michael only ever saw my potential and was willing to experiment with my caregivers' support to figure out how to best adapt the workouts to the specific challenges of my Cerebral Palsy.
For the past four years, it has been my honour and my privilege to witness the development of FAM™, and be a part of the FAMily. I have received a lot of support from the disability sector, over my lifetime, and I can tell whether someone is just there for their job. The FAM™ coaches are genuinely there for the enjoyment of helping people achieve more than anybody imagined.
Michael and the wider FAMily have unconditionally supported me through the various trials and triumphs in my life. Even throughout my darkest times, I always have prioritised my gym sessions, knowing that I will leave feeling a little bit better than when I started. In the gym, I feel safe to be who I am and work on the person I want to become. From establishing online gym sessions during the Covid-19 lockdowns to rearranging sessions at the last minute, Michael has always done his best to accommodate my changing needs. I cannot thank or praise the FAM™ team enough for all that they do for me, and other people in my community.
- Maqymseahe Ninces
Our unit is a specialist facility for special needs students with a significant intellectual disability, such as Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Prader Willi syndrome, Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD and Global Developmental Delay.
For the past 3 years we have been working with the amazing Hashtag (Michael) and his group of volunteers. They are a fantastic group of people who are enthusiastic, positive and friendly. Michael has been an inspiration to our students, he is totally professional and always ensures that the health and safety of all participants is top priority. Michael has an enthusiastic personality and a can do attitude that has engaged our students and he has made a huge difference to the physical, mental and social skills of all our students.
We have noticed that our students are more confident and many have become much more conscious about healthy eating and keeping fit. The mental benefits of cross fit have been noticeable for our students. They love coming to the class and love to show off their new muscles. Michael has pushed our students and they have all noticeably improved their balance, strength and flexibility.
- Head of Department - Pakuranga College, Auckland, New Zealand
