OFFICIAL BIO

Credentials

Tom Smalley received his Masters of Science in Exercise and Sports Science from Merrimack College and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Siena College. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA. In addition, he holds a USAW Level 1 Weightlifting Coaching certification and a Level 1 Coaching certification from Precision Nutrition. 

In January 2020, Smalley co-created the Anxiety in Athletes – a task force and online resource center with the help of the IOCDF in an effort to breakdown the stigma around mental health in athletics.

Smalley has a strong passion for weightlifting and began competing in 2021, 8 years after his mental health forced him to put a halt to his athletic career. He is a USAW Adaptive Division 2x Gold Medalist.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another”

— Proverbs 27:17

Core Values

  • White sign saying You're Worthy of Love in black text, on a wooden post outdoors

    Compassion

    Having worked with so many different athletes in a variety of settings, I’ve seen firsthand the negative stigma around sharing how we feel. Being emotional in athletics is often frowned upon and labeled “soft” and It is time to break that mold and connect with people using compassion and empathy.

  • Young white male athlete standing with a heavy barbell overhead, on a platform.

    Perseverance

    There is no denying in life that there will be challenges thrown our way. However, life is truly 10% what happens to us and 90% how we respond. There is no success without struggle. Teaching people who are struggling how to push through and become resilient to challenges is always at the forefront of who we are and what we do.

  • Young white male coach smiling, while leaning against dumbbell weight rack.

    Authenticity

    You are entirely custom-made and allowed to be yourself. Being vulnerable and showing others who you are creates stronger relationships and will get you further with your personal development than pretending to be someone else. There is strength in vulnerability and authenticity- always be yourself.

  • coach supervising athlete doing an exercise

    Consistency

    It is tough to wake up every day feeling 100% and ready to attack your goals. You won’t always be motivated. That is why we must rely on discipline and continue to show up. Focusing on being 1% better each day will accumulate into substantial progress over time.

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    Holistic Health

    Performance should never be limited to just the physical capabilities. As somebody who has endured a long mental health journey, it is vital to pay attention to all areas of human performance. Using a Holistic approach, I strive to elevate athletes and people of all ages physically and mentally while helping them reach their goals.