Testimonials

John Roh

Research Technician in Biomedical Engineering at Duke

Rory definitely knows his stuff. I began training under him after a several month long quarantine and a much longer stagnation in strength gain. He expertly tailored my workouts and lifts to return me to my strength and beyond. Lifts I hadn’t hit personal records on in years became lifts that had some sort of record each week, but in my opinion, the best part of Rory isn’t his ability to program. It’s what he does beyond being a coach. He’s always happy to receive feedback about my lifts, but he also listens to and offers advice in every other aspect of life. He’s a friend who celebrates victories with you, works hard to achieve progress with you, and reassures you when things aren’t the best – regardless of whether or not it’s related to lifting. Rory’s become the closest-farthest (16 hour time difference) friend I have, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Dana Ye-Lee

Engineering (Honours) & Sports Science Student - University of Auckland

Rory has been an incredibly invaluable friend, mentor and coach ever since I started working with him to progress my powerlifting career further under Team Sisyphus. As I enter my third year of competing, I cannot recommend Rory enough. There is no one more patient, understanding, respectful and intentional than him. Rory consistently takes time out of his schedule to check in with me and ensure that all aspects of my life are healthy, happy and balanced and will provide reassuring advice if anything is out of the ordinary. He understands the importance of a work-life-training balance, especially whilst studying, and is flexible in making necessary adaptations to my training schedule. He can be thought-provoking and extremely honest when necessary, which I am grateful for as it drives me to push myself further when I may start to become complacent. Thanks to Rory’s guidance, I pay attention to important details and take better care of myself and my mental health. I have become a more capable and well-rounded athlete and individual, with the ability to be independent in a formidable partnership. I cannot recommend Rory enough.

Loren McCarthy

Resident Advisor - University of Auckland

Rory has played a huge part in my training since day one- he was one of the first to introduce me to and encourage me to pursue powerlifting and has been a vital part of my improvement in and enjoyment of the sport. Through his coaching and advice I have seen real improvements in strength, technique and confidence. Rory has taken me through the basics from having no experience in strength sports to being on my way to hopefully being a competitive lifter in the future, and I trust entirely in his programming and advice. I have benefited greatly from his comprehensive coverage of all things powerlifting- from programming, to handling, to diet advice and support. His knowledge, constant support and belief makes him the best coach you could ask for!