Coach Ellie's parting words to our Rise community

Well squad, here is one last FIRE UP!!

I’ve put off writing this blog because I’ve been avoiding thinking about all the incredible people and relationships I’ll be leaving behind as I move back home to Colorado. Rise will always have a piece of my heart, and I know I will look back on my time with all of you with love and gratitude. 

I found Rise during one of the lowest points of my life. I had been attending Concordia for three years and playing on the hockey team, but I never truly felt like I found my place or my people at school. I missed home constantly, and every day it was a struggle to get out of bed and face the day.

Those early mornings before our 5 a.m. sessions definitely shouldn’t have made getting up any easier — but somehow Rise changed that. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I was part of something bigger than myself. My mornings at Rise quickly became the best part of my week, and the members and coaches welcomed me with open arms. You became my home away from home and my reason for getting up each morning.

I am incredibly thankful for the impact each and every one of you has had on my life. From special fist bumps, to tears shared on hard days, to celebrating exciting news together, every moment has meant more to me than I can put into words. You bring light into every room with your big smiles and even bigger hearts, and I am so honored to have been part of your journeys.

I am so proud of the work you have all put in, and I know there is more sweat, sore muscles, and laughter in your future. I hope you continue to find joy in movement, keep showing up for yourselves and each other, and never settle — those heavy weights aren’t going to lift themselves! Keep helping hurting people and be the person who sees something and says something - you never know the impact you will leave. 

I also want to give a shoutout to the coaching team at Rise. I have never been part of a group with more energy, goofiness, passion, and determination than this crew. The care, knowledge, and drive each of you brings every single day constantly inspires me. Thank you for pushing me outside my comfort zone, challenging me to grow, and making coaching so much fun. I will miss our random escapades in meetings, incredible team bonding experiences, and being surrounded by people who care so much about those they serve. I know our members are in incredibly good hands and will continue to be challenged, encouraged, and cared for.

For anyone going through a difficult season or facing change, I want to leave you with this reminder: there are no bad days. Even on the days when getting out of bed feels hard, there are still beautiful things to wake up for and people whose lives are better simply because you are in them.

I hope you continue sharing this community with the people you love and continue brightening lives the same way you brightened mine.

And in the wise words of Pitbull:

“This for anybody going through tough times — believe me, been there, done that. But every day above ground is a great day, remember that.”