Our Coaches
We Are Committed To
Creating A Community Of Extraordinary Individuals
Jordan Apostoleris
Affiliate Owner / CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2015
Jordan has been an athlete all of his life playing both high level hockey and baseball. He discovered CrossFit, after growing tired of the repetitive routine at the conventional gym, and was hooked after his first workout of the day. The fast-paced competitive nature of the sport was exactly what he was looking for. Jordan thrives on teaching others the fundamentals of CrossFit and has been coaching since 2018.
James Martell
Affiliate Owner / CrossFit Level 2 Trainer / NCCP Certified Olympic Weightlifting Coach
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2015
James, a black belt in Taekwondo and recreational soccer player, found CrossFit after being encouraged by a friend to try it. Since joining Crossfit James has lost almost 100 pounds. His experience with fitness, nutrition and weight loss gives him a unique perspective as a coach. James loves CrossFit and is constantly educating himself so he is the strongest coach and athlete possible. Coaching since 2018, he is passionate about sharing his knowledge with AVC members!
Peter Baxter
CrossFit Level 2 Trainer / CrossFit Kids / Precision Nutrition Level 1
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2016
Peter discovered the power of the CrossFit methodology when he committed to his own health and wellness lifestyle improvements. He is excited to share with others what can be accomplished when you determine to implement small, positive, sustainable changes over the long-term. His role as functional fitness trainer and nutrition coach brings him joy as he interacts with the members of the AVC community. He has been coaching since 2017.
Gillian Bergsma
CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2020
Gill has an extensive sports background which includes both playing and coaching rugby at Acadia University. She has been instrumental in expanding the scope of CrossFit in the valley by developing the CrossFit for Older Adults program and coaching CrossFit for Mommy and Me. Gill has been coaching at AVC since 2021 and her passion for CrossFit is apparent as she introduces people to the program through Foundations, works one-on-one Personal Training or leads Group CrossFit Classes.
Trish Rafuse
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer (Online)
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2021
Trish has previous experience coaching kickboxing, including the Cardio Kickboxing program here at AVC, where she had the opportunity to share her passion for fitness and comradery. She has also worked for a number of years as a Taekwondo assistant coach with all ages and levels. Since 2022 Trish has been coaching and bringing her positive energy to Group CrossFit Classes at AVC.
Whitney Croft
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2018 and part of the broader CrossFit community with 902 Athletics prior
Whitney is passionate about people stepping out of their comfort zone and improving their life in the gym. She has a background coaching youth sports, instructing tennis and leading a variety of community sports camps. Whitney has been part of the AVC coaching team since 2020, with her bold personality shining in every class, she is without question your biggest supporter.
Stephen Bates
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer (Online)
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2021 and part of the broader CrossFit community with The Cabin Crossfit for 3 years prior.
Steve, and his family, have been involved with CrossFit since around 2010, allowing him to bring an extensive functional fitness background into his coaching practice. He also has coaching experience with team sports such as high school hockey and has completed training through the military related to running fitness classes. Since 2022 Steve has been sharing his love of CrossFit and coaching Group CrossFit Classes here at AVC.
Kait Hancock
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer (Online)
Member of the Apple Valley CrossFit community since 2018
Kait has always enjoyed sports and movement, participating in many throughout her life. After moving back to the Annapolis Valley, she tried CrossFit for the first time and quickly became captivated by the supportive community at Apple Valley CrossFit. For Kait, fitness has always been a way to enhance both mental and physical health. The connections she makes with other members and witnessing their achievements are among the most rewarding aspects of being part of this community. She understands that everyone is on their unique journey when they walk into the gym. As a coach, Kait is dedicated to supporting you in getting the most out of your CrossFit experience, whatever that may look like for you!
Holly Robinson
Member of the Apple Valley Crossfit community since 2025
Holly is a physical educator and experienced coach with a background in group instruction and athlete development. She has coached at both the high school and provincial levels, primarily in rugby, and holds certifications in World Rugby Level 1 and 2, Safe Sport, and Mental Health First Aid. Holly completed a Master of Education in Curriculum Studies and brings a strong foundation in physical literacy, leadership, and creating supportive team environments. Her experience working with youth and leading group activities translates well to a group fitness setting.
