Today’s Notable Young Professional is Andy O’Brien, Sidney Crosby’s personal trainer and ambassador for the new Reebok SC87 Collection. Andy is also the President of O’Brien Sport and Humandynamix Health and Wellness. He’s been training athletes at the professional and Olympic level for over 16 years, and has become one of the industry’s most respected and sought-after experts…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I provide specialized services to professional athletes in the areas of training, performance, nutrition and rehabilitation.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
When I was seven years old, I saw the movie Rocky IV and became mesmerized by the training montage – the science and technology the Russian had, along with Rocky’s heart and determination. As I became an athlete myself I always wanted incorporate training methodologies into my development, and eventually I began reading, researching and learning from others. I’m proud to say I’ve been engaged in my dream job for about 17 years now.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis?
I find helping athletes reach their goals extremely rewarding. Those moments when someone recognizes their hard work has paid off are a lot of fun.
The most challenging part?
Elite athletes are extremely competitive, and their expectations are high. In order for them to be at their best, I need to be at mine, and there is little room for error.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully continuing my direct work with elite athletes but expanded with regards to scaled products and services that can be offered to a broader population.
What does success look like to you?
Success to me is about using one’s work for creative self-expression. If you connect with your true inner passion, and find a way to express it in your day-to-day work, it can be very personally rewarding.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
When Sidney Crosby won the Stanley Cup, it brought back all the times we’d talked about that since he was 13 years old. Dara Torres’ performance at the ‘08 Olympics at age 41, and Nathan Mackinnon going first overall in the draft were all very special. For me, however, getting the news that I was hired by the Florida Panthers and would be working in the NHL was probably the most memorable.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Develop your problem-solving skills, work with enthusiasm every day, and find a way to be a difference maker.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I had a chance to do some work for the Special Olympics, and became instantly engaged – it’s a wonderful charity. My fiancé and I also support local Humane Societies, and we are big animal lovers.
What to you is notable?
Notable to me is living your life with passion and integrity on a daily basis.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
