Each month we spotlight a different CFA athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow classmates and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit Austin Community should be about.

Our November Athlete of the Month is Matt Milldrum! Matt is typically a morning guy, getting his day started in the 6:30 or 7:30 am classes. He joined CrossFit Austin just shy of 5 months ago and already, he has established himself as a proud member of our crew. He’s always working towards a goal and shares his progress openly so we can all join in his awesome journey! He’s always got a great attitude and is the first to jump on board for the CFA social events! Come hang out with him and you’ll see why he’s our AOM! Congratulations Matt! We are thrilled to have you as this month’s Athlete of the Month.

State your Name and/or Nickname please:

• Matt Milldrum

 Words to live by?

• Check yo self before you wreck yo self

 What is your fitness background?

• Played football and basketball in high school.
• For a brief time I was your basic gym bro at 24 HR Fitness before I knew better.
• CF Level 1 Certified

 How long have you been CrossFitting?

• 3 years – ish

 Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today?

• Did a one day free trial thing and was put in with the foundations class. There was loud rock music blasting on the speakers. The WOD was 4 rounds of 20 wall balls and 400 meter runs. Some small dude was crushing the workout and beat me. That pissed me off. I was hooked from that point.

What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Austin?

• The community. Everyone has been welcoming since day one. Love the events and that people at the box get together outside of the box. Heading into CFA is definitely the highlight of my days.

Current Training Goals/PRs?

• Have had a goal in place of hitting a 225# snatch before 2016. I want 2 beef patties on each side of the bar. Also looking to hopefully compete in the Fittest Games. {UPDATE: He qualified!!!}

 What advice do you have for folks just starting out in CrossFit?

• Greg Glassman had some great quote I can’t remember it, but basically don’t be afraid of looking stupid. In the beginning I always avoided things I didn’t think I could do or didn’t want to embarrass myself in front of everyone. Embrace the journey and sometimes that means epically failing in front of your box.

 What is your cheat meal go to? (We know about your Whataburger fixes 😉 )

• Whiskey. Whataburger. Pizza. Crackers and cheese. Anything that I can fit into my face. Cheat days get real.

 Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout.

• Hitting a 255# overhead squat. Previous PR had been 225#, but saw someone on the whiteboard had hit 255#, so just decided to try and match it. Probably something I would have never attempted had I not seen that someone else had already done it.

If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?

• 5 rounds for time: 400 m row, 10 power snatch @ 95# and 10 GHD sit ups.

What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit?

• HA! Interests outside of Crossfit. That’s a good one.

 Tell us something we don’t know about you…

• I have Katy Perry and Ellie Goulding on my workout playlist. That’s right. #NoShameInMyGame

Longhorns or Aggies?

• Bobcats

Leave the fine folks of CrossFit Austin with some parting words…

• “This is how we do. Yeah. Chillin’ laid back straight stuntin’. Yeah we do it like that.” -KP