Meet the CrossFit Liberate team

At CrossFit Liberate in Athens, GA, we are dedicated to creating a fitness community where everyone can thrive. Our gym combines expert coaching, cutting-edge facilities, and a supportive environment to help you reach your fitness goals. Discover a place where your fitness journey is guided by passion and professionalism.

Our Coaches

Our coaches at CrossFit Liberate in Athens, GA, are more than just trainers; they are passionate professionals committed to your success. Each member of our team brings a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to help you achieve your fitness objectives. With diverse specialties ranging from strength training to wellness, our coaches are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

Larry and Jennifer Reeves

Owners

Jen and Larry retired from their respective military careers to Athens, Georgia, the same state where Larry is from. Long time CrossFitters, Larry joined the coaching staff of CrossFit Liberate back in summer of 23. When the opportunity presented itself to own and run the gym, both Jen and Larry jumped at the chance to make a difference in the Athens community, bringing health and fitness to an ever-widening swath of people!

Larry Reevs

Owner and Coach

Larry is a 27-year Army veteran, retired as a Colonel, with multiple combat deployments. Growing up, Larry was a multi-sport athlete and played football in college (not well) before being commissioned in the Army. Larry has learned that effort is free – it’s just a point of putting in the work. Belonging to a team and being part of something special is a driving force in Larry’s life as well as serving others in some capacity. CrossFit Liberate fulfills both of those for Larry. Living deliberately and being a good human are consistent goals Larry strives to achieve. Larry’s wife Jen is also a retired Colonel (Air Force). Larry has two kids (grown) with 2 amazing grandkids that have him wrapped around their fingers. He’s also the human to Jake the Dog, a 10 year old German Shepherd.

Turning Point

Dealing with PTSD is a constant fight. I am forever grateful my wife pushed me (hard) to seek help after years of just trying to “man up”. While I continue to learn lessons in life, the one that sticks out the most to me is seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness. We all need help to make it through life. Seeking help for the issues I was facing forced me to confront other issues and failures I’d buried deep. I’m still a work in progress!

Motivation & Passion

I grew up with parents who were both service-oriented (father – military, mom – special needs service) so it’s ingrained in my DNA. I find great joy in helping an athlete learn a movement, achieve a new personal best, or to just grind through a WoD. Service to others enriches our own lives beyond measure. Coaching also forces me to continue to evolve as an athlete, as age and injuries cause you to learn different ways and methodologies to stay fit.

Qualifications

CFL1
CFL2
USAW L1
Scaling Course
Spot the Flaw
Judges Course

Favorite WOD:

DT and Grace

Emmanuel Washington

Head Coach

I started coaching over 15 years ago with the sole purpose of helping people build confidence. I was never the most athletic, the most confident, or the most motivated but when I saw early on what regular exercise did for me, I made it my life’s goal to help instill that same amazing feeling in everyone I came into contact with. One thing I love about CrossFit Liberate is that although our weaknesses and insecurities are on display almost every day, the community never makes you feel less than amazing, and because of that, we continue to show up and get better every single day.

Turning Point

When I started CrossFit, I was almost 50 pounds heavier and going through a heavy bout of depression. As someone who has always dealt with confidence issues and body dysmorphia, being the heaviest I had ever been in my life did not help. I considered myself an athlete my entire life but the pandemic had done a number on my physical, mental, and emotional health. I stepped into CFL looking for nothing more than a way to look better, but left my first session feeling better than I had in 5 years. The community embraced me, the coaches were caring, and the vibes were vibin’. I knew then, this is where I wanted to be.

Motivation & Passion

My main goals in the fitness space are to spearhead the fight against childhood obesity and to be a bridge for those facing mental, physical, emotional, or financial barriers that have prevented them from reaping the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. I strive to bring fitness and fun to the populations that are often forgotten or put on the back burner. My ultimate goal is to have a world renowned CrossFit Kids program based out of this amazing gym.

Qualifications

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer CrossFit Level 2 Trainer CrossFit Kids Certification CrossFit Nutrition Certification CrossFit Anatomy Certification CrossFit Dumbbells Certification CrossFit Judges Course (2019-Present) CrossFit Teaching Movement Certification CrossFit Professional Coach Certification CrossFit Spot The Flaw Certification CrossFit Scaling Certification CrossFit Lesson Planning Certification USAW Level 1 USA Center for SafeSport Certification USAW Certified Referee USAW Athlete Development Model (ADM) Certification AHA Basic Life Support (AED/CPR/First Aid) American College of Surgeons Stop the Bleed Certification ISSA Certified Personal Trainer ISSA Certified Nutrition Coach ISSA Strength and Conditioning Specialist ISSA Group Exercise Certification

Favorite WOD:

“Linda” or “Diane”

Angelina Becker

Coach

Growing up, I played every sport under the sun. My parents wanted me to try everything and see which sports I like to play. This instilled a love for competition in me at a very young age. At the end of elementary school- beginning of middle school, I decided gymnastics and soccer were the sports I loved the most and wanted to focus on. I went on to win a few state titles in gymnastics and place second at nationals. Around 8th grade, my soccer coach sent my team to an all-girls Olympic style weightlifting gym to do team strength training. I found myself really enjoying the sport of Olympic weightlifting, so I soon started competing. I did that for about three years, then switched to a CrossFit gym the summer before junior year of high school. It rapidly became my safe place, my escape, a time where I could forget about everything going on in my life and just focus on the WOD in front of me.

Turning Point
November of my freshman year of high school, I experienced my first panic attack. For the next four years, I quietly struggled with mental health. Throughout high school, it was a demon I fought every day but did not express to anyone. It was a lot easier to pretend like everything was okay, and I didn’t want to “burden” anyone with my problems. During my senior year, I finally got the courage to speak up and ask for help. With the support of my doctors, therapist, and loved ones, I was able to finally work through my thoughts and struggles. I am so happy to say that I am okay now. I of course still have my hard days, but I know they will not last forever. Looking back on that dark time in my life, I now know that it is okay not to be okay. I am grateful that it’s a part of my story because I am living proof that things get better. You are loved, you are wanted, and you are never a burden.

Motivation & Passion
Having incredible coaches who provided such a safe space inspired me to become a coach myself. I want to be able to provide that for other people. I want the athletes I get to coach to know that even if they have a bad day, at least they get to spend one hour not thinking about it and enjoy a workout with a coach that cares about them. I am impassioned to serve people who are willing to work hard and want to make themselves 1% better every day.

Qualifications
CFL1

Favorite WOD:
Murph! Not for the workout itself, but the community aspect of the WOD.
It makes me so happy to see the amount of people who show up to cheer each other on and push themselves out of their comfort zone to finish such a difficult WOD.

John Morris

Coach

Growing up, I raced motocross. I’ve been an EMT for 10 years, and in 2016 I joined the Army, so I have always been physically active. CrossFit has helped not just with my health, but it has also allowed me to be able to serve in the Army as well as help others as an EMT.

Turning Point
While I was in the Army I attended and passed Special Forces selection, but I was removed from the qualification course due to medical reasons. I used CrossFit to get mentally and physically prepared for selection. Even after failing, CrossFit was there for me, and today I still use it to be physically capable for being an EMT.

Motivation & Passion
The reason I coach is because I see the negative impacts of a sedentary life style every day at work. I don’t just want to see athletes PR lifts, but in the long run I also want to help people not just live longer, but also enjoy a higher quality of life.

Qualifications
CFL1

Favorite WOD:
Glen

Julia Wieskopf

Coach

I found CrossFit in 2019 after six years of playing volleyball and wanting to try something new. After stumbling upon a CrossFit gym, I completed my first WOD and absolutely fell in love. I was captivated by CrossFit’s functionality and felt empowered by the capabilities of my body. After being introduced to the concept of mindset in CrossFit, I developed a strong interest in how the mind works which led me to decide to pursue a degree in psychology at the University of Georgia. During the summer of 2022, I interned for CrossFit New England, home of the CompTrain headquarters in Natick, Massachusetts. During my time there, I eagerly learned from world-class coaches and CrossFit Games athletes, soaking up every lesson I could and gained clarity in my passion for coaching. I strongly align with CrossFit’s pillar of “Regularly learn and play new sports,” as stated in World-Class Fitness in 100 Words. CrossFit has given me the confidence and freedom to seek out new adventures. On the weekends, you can catch me in a triathlon, Olympic weightlifting meet, bike race, obstacle course race, or even an arm wrestling tournament.
Turning Point
When I was asked to join the CFL coaching team, my inner critic put a hard stop to the question. My fear of failure had already written my future to be safe and sheltered…and coaching CrossFit was not in the cards. I thought I was too young, too introverted, not ready. After contemplation, I decided to give it a shot and attend a CrossFit L-1 seminar. Over the course of the weekend, I had fallen in love with CrossFit all over again–but this time, in a different way. I walked out of my L-1 with clarity. This was something I had to do. Throughout my coach onboarding program, I struggled with imposter syndrome and self-doubt. After dedicating countless hours to continuing my development as a coach and embracing the discomfort of being a novice, I discovered my passion for coaching and the fulfillment that came along with it. This journey allowed me to rediscover myself and reconsider the boundaries I placed on my potential. I learned that the most growth occurs outside your comfort zone.
Motivation & Passion
As I coach, I strive to help members build the tools to thrive outside of the gym, both physically and mentally. I am passionate about sharing all that CrossFit has given me. My biggest motivation is my 16-year-old self, who used to sit in the car, overwhelmed with nerves before walking into the gym. I looked up to my first CrossFit coaches as idols. Every coach’s message to me, big or small, would stick with me the whole day. I wondered if they knew how big of an impact one small interaction had on the course of my day. Years later, my biggest goal as a coach is to make each member feel valued, even if it is just for 60 minutes of their day. I understand how daunting it can feel to be the new face in the gym and strive to help make every member feel at home. I am impassioned to serve individuals with a growth mindset and a hunger to achieve their goals.

Qualifications
CFL2
CrossFit Judges Course
CrossFit Teaching Movement Course
CrossFit Scaling Course
AED/CPR

Favorite WOD:
Diane

Engelber Perez

Coach

As a coach, I’ve evolved through my journey of self-discovery. Growing up, I never found a sport that resonated with me, but CrossFit changed that. I fell in love with its challenging movements and community-driven ethos. My athletic achievements include conquering once-daunting exercises and empowering others to do the same. My highlights are witnessing clients’ breakthroughs and fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Turning Point
My turning point was recognizing that CrossFit was more than just a workout – it was a journey of self-improvement and community building. I conquered my initial intimidation and embraced the supportive culture. My enemy was my own self-doubt, but I overcame it by finding strength in shared struggles and triumphs. Now, I relate to others facing similar fears and motivate them to discover their potential.

Motivation & Passion
As a coach, my purpose is to empower individuals to unlock their potential and find confidence through fitness. I’m passionate about serving those seeking a supportive community and holistic growth. My motivation stems from witnessing transformative moments and knowing I’m part of a ripple effect of positivity in my clients’ lives. I inspire others to embrace challenges and celebrate small victories, fostering a journey of self-discovery and collective growth.

Favorite WOD:
Nate

Qualifications:
CFL1

Nicole Washington

Coach

Turning Point
I’ve been doing CrossFit since November 2020. I’ve had a different motivation for showing up every day. Recently I’ve hit a turning point that will forever stick with me inside and outside of CrossFit. For my fitness journey, I continue CrossFit because I love how it makes me feel. I have struggled with comparing myself to others my entire life. The same happened when I initially started CrossFit. I struggled because I focused more on the scores of similar athletes than I did on my success after the WOD. The moment I found my CrossFit community and developed genuine friendships within that community, it helped me to remember that we are all different athletes with various strengths and weaknesses. I also learned to cheer myself through every WOD simply for having the courage to do it!

Motivation & Passion
I remember my first time walking into a CrossFit gym and watching a group class. I thought, “There is no way I can do this” the entire time. My husband and I started CrossFit together and it has been life-changing for us both. For me, it started as a way for us to spend quality time together. It has evolved into an essential part of my weekly routine. I’m not always confident or excited walking into the WOD, but the thing that I enjoy most is the way CrossFit has strengthened my mind. I know that I can do hard things. I also know that it’s about reaching my stimulus and no one else’s. I love that CrossFit truly is for everyone. I love how multi-generational CrossFit Liberate is. It’s empowering to be in a room with people ranging from 6-65+ with everyone actively giving their best and getting stronger. It’s about showing up. If you show up you win. I decided to be a CrossFit coach specifically to help introduce this amazing sport to others. I want everyone who dares to give CrossFit a try to know that they are supported and can accomplish their fitness goals. I want to let the world know that CrossFit truly is for everyone.

Qualifications
CF-OL1

‍Karen:
150 Wall Balls for Time

Leticia Dantas

Coach

Leticia trained and competed in martial arts (Judo, Karate, Capoeira, Boxing, and Thai Boxing) for several years. In her opinion, CrossFit, like martial arts, is training for resilience. Choosing to do hard things with intention, challenging fears, practicing the discipline of mind and body, and finding joy in the smallest victories. This warrior spirit translates to every aspect of our lives. Her purpose is to empower others to be the strongest, healthiest, and happiest version of themselves. Inclusion, diversity, and community are the most important aspects of CrossFit Liberate to her.

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Turning Point
Motivation & Passion
“Don’t be the reason someone feels insecure. Be the reason someone feels seen, heard, and supported.” Cleo Wade

Qualifications:
CrossFit Level 2 (CF-L2) Trainer
Certified trainer (CPT) by the National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Conditioning Specialist (MMACS)
AHA Basic Life Support (AED/CPR/First Aid)
National Academy of Sports Medicine Resistance training Course
CrossFit Teaching Movement course
CrossFit Judges Course
CrossFit Scaling Course
CrossFit Gymnastics Course

Brian Clapp

Coach

I started playing golf at the age of 10 and have played consistently ever since. I played at Division I and have continued to play recreationally for the last 30 years. In an attempt to maintain my fitness, I discovered weightlifting and CrossFit. My pursuit of big lifts and faster times finally led me to compete in Olympic weightlifting. I guess the highlight of my athletic prowess would be competing at the Masters World Championships in Olympic weightlifting in 2018 & 2019.

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Turning Point
I have had many turning points in my life in regards to fitness. Almost every year, I set goals to achieve that are difficult to meet. Those include Death by Burpees for the entire year, as many hero words as possible in a year, or some crazy athletic strength feat. Somewhere along the line, I always hit a wall that entails having a lot of self-doubt about my capabilities. Eventually, one way or another I give it all I have to meet the goal or at least know I gave it my all versus quitting. The feeling of knowing I did my very best but didn’t quite get there is still ultra-satisfying.

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Motivation & Passion
My desire to coach comes from judging the world’s elite CrossFit athletes. Seeing how important it is for human beings to move properly is important. Helping to promote active lifestyles among even the everyday CrossFit athlete is on par with that. The only difference sometimes is natural ability. Even the everyday Cross-Fitters can do elite-level stuff if they are coached correctly. I’m here to help tap into that capacity.

What is your favorite benchmark WOD?
5 Rounds for Time: 5 rope climbs and 25 back squats at 185#

Qualifications:
CFL1
CFL2

Chandler Spivey

Coach

I was a competitive gymnast for 13 years until I began running in high school. I went on to run cross country and track for Young Harris College. I graduated from YHC with a Bachelor’s in biology and a minor in sports studies. Before starting my coaching career, I did some aquarium work at Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida and worked with the beluga whales and harbor seals at the Georgia Aquarium. I also have a few years of experience coaching teams and recreational gymnastics.
Because of my gymnastics background, my mom thought I should try CrossFit. I was coming off an injury from running and wanted to find a way to help me get back in shape for the upcoming cross-country season. I only took classes when I was home from college and then after I graduated, I got more involved in a CrossFit community. I knew I loved coaching gymnastics and I knew I loved CrossFit, so this led me to get my CFL1 certification and began coaching CrossFit.
Not long after I started coaching CrossFit, I also decided to go back to grad school to get my Master’s. I graduated from the University of Georgia in December of 2023 with my Master’s in Kinesiology (Sport Pedagogy) and my Health and Physical Education Teaching Certification. Throughout grad school, I had been coaching at a gym for several years and eventually became head coach of that gym after graduating from UGA.
I now teach lower school PE at Athens Christian School and am the head middle school Cross Country and Track coach, but I knew I still wanted to be involved in a CrossFit gym beyond just being an athlete so I still make time to coach here!

Turning Point
In my sophomore year of undergrad, I was out for the running season due to a severe stress fracture in my shin. When I was finally cleared to start physical activity again, my mom heard about this new gym that opened up near our house. I did not know what CrossFit was, but we had heard they did gymnastics things, so my mom thought it would be something I would really enjoy. I decided to give it a try and immediately fell in love. I don’t remember the workout specifically, but I do remember that there were pull-ups and handstand walks in my very first class, which are both in my wheelhouse!
I would also say my second turning point was when I started coaching. I just kind of went here and there throughout college and did CrossFit to have something to do. But when I started coaching, I got more serious about CrossFit as a sport and not just as a mode of activity. I saw myself improve significantly in my form alone and began to think about strategizing workouts. I also began doing local competitions and have qualified for quarterfinals on a few different occasions.

Motivation & Passion
When I started coaching gymnastics, I just did it for fun and to find a way to get back into the gymnastics environment. I started coaching CrossFit to make some extra money and learn more about my new sport. I fell in love with coaching both sports and wanted to figure out how I could make a stable career out of coaching. I then went on to get my Master’s degree in coaching sports.
Sports and physical activity are something I have always valued growing up. I know I would not be the person I am today if I had not done gymnastics or run in college. Athletics and sports taught me discipline, how to communicate and work with a team, as well as how to prioritize and juggle many things at once. I want to share my love and passion for fitness with others. I love watching people grow as athletes, but also as individuals. I love the “ah ha” moments and watching the light bulbs come on. Just being able to know I made a difference for someone brings me joy.

Qualifications
CFL1
CF Judges Course
CF Spot the Flaw
CrossFit Education – Coaching Adaptive Athletes
CrossFit Education – Training Pregnant and Postpartum Athletes
Precision Nutrition Level 1 Nutrition Coach

Favorite WOD:
Open Workout 21.1
12 Days of Christmas (any version)

Kat Crump

Coach

I played soccer at a competitive level growing up. My dad and a lot of my support system were coaches so coaching was always something I was really passionate about. I have been coaching soccer in some capacity since I was 15 and played college soccer in Denver. I have been a Division 1 college coach for 8 years and a CrossFit coach since July 2024!

Turning Point
My college playing experience was a turning point in my life. I realized I wanted to help people through their college experiences because it is such an important time in life for young women.

Motivation & Passionhgi
I am passionate about coaching because I love making the people around me better in all aspects of their lives!

Qualifications;
CF L1

Favorite WOD:
Open 24.3. I’m not great at it, but it’s the first workout I got a muscle up in and I will never forget it!

Drew McLendon

Childcare Director

Drew is a student at the University of Georgia studying psychology and biology with career goals to be a children’s therapist. She loves working with kids when it comes to childcare, babysitting, and mentoring young girls. Her favorite part of the job is connecting with the kids and their parents to create the best experience for their family at the gym.

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Unique Features and Facilities

At CrossFit Liberate, we’ve created an environment designed to support your fitness journey and lifestyle. Our dedicated childcare space lets you focus on your workout, while free parking and locker rooms with showers make your visit seamless. We offer ample room for personal and small group training, even during large group classes, and our outdoor running courses add variety to your routine. After class, unwind in our welcoming gathering area or connect with our on-site physical and massage therapist.

Top-Notch Fitness Equipment

At CrossFit Liberate, we utilize top-notch equipment to ensure effective and dynamic training. Our arsenal includes Concept 2 rowers, Assault Bikes, and thousands of pounds of free weights, including bumper plates, dumbbells, and kettlebells. Our expansive rig accommodates over 20 athletes at a time, supporting pull-ups, squats, and more. Additionally, we incorporate tools like jump ropes, resistance bands, ab mats, and foam rollers to round out your training experience and keep every workout engaging.

Book Your Free Intro Session Today

Take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle with a free intro session at CrossFit Liberate in Athens, GA! Our team will provide a personalized tour of our facilities, introduce you to our services, and help you start your fitness journey. Schedule your session now and experience firsthand how CrossFit Liberate can support your goals.