Meet Jesse

My journey began with the positive impact sport and strength training had on my life. From a young age, I developed a passion for becoming stronger, improving myself, and understanding the process behind athletic development. This passion led me to pursue an Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education, followed by a Bachelor of Education at Brock University. A few years later, I completed a Master of Education in Leadership and Adult Learning from the University of Calgary.

For over a decade, I have served as a high school Physical Education teacher, Athletic Director, and Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Bearspaw Christian School in Northwest Calgary. Through my initiation and leadership of the Bearspaw Barbell strength program, I have helped hundreds of student-athletes improve their physical performance, develop confidence, and discover their potential through strength training. I believe resistance training is about more than physical development; it is a vehicle for building discipline, confidence, responsibility, and lasting character.

I am the founder and promoter of the Grizzly Games, which has been Canada’s largest teen strength competition for over 10 years. The Games have hosted some of North America’s largest mas wrestling events, and my leadership and coaching have earned recognition within the strength sport community. Through this platform, I have helped create opportunities for young athletes to compete, grow, and succeed in strength sports at the local, national, and international levels.

Beyond my work in education and athletics, I am passionate about developing other coaches and educators. I have presented at several national and regional conferences on youth strength and conditioning, mas wrestling, and physical education. I currently serve on the Board of the Alberta Strongman Association as Director of Education and Youth Development.

I have also spent time coaching adults as one of the highest-rated personal trainers at the Calgary YMCA, helping clients with a wide range of goals, including strength development, body composition, and improved health. My approach has remained consistent across all populations: educate first, personalize the process, and help people build confidence through meaningful progress.

I credit much of my professional success to the coaches, mentors, and athletes who have shaped me along the way. From world record holders to professional athletes to lifelong friends, I have come to recognize the power of expertise, and how relationships and evidence shape who you become.

Outside of coaching, I am a devoted husband and father of three. My family and I are actively involved in our local church and share a strong Christian faith. When I am not at home, in the gym, or in the classroom, you can usually find me on a golf course.