MEET THE TEAM
Nick Byom - Owner/Coach
Nick holds a Master’s in Exercise Science, Bachelor’s in Chemistry, and has been learning, coaching, and practicing fitness for the past 20 years. His experiences as an all-American collegiate high jumper, physique champion, high school and college track coach, personal trainer, gym manager, and firefighter/fire training instructor have led him to start his true passion project: Strength Academy. A gym where coaches and members don’t just train, but teach and learn.
Emily E - Operations Manager
Emily grew up in Washburn, WI and graduated from UW-River Falls in 2022 with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science. She played sports year-round growing up, from peewee soccer to college club soccer. It wasn’t until my first year of college that she became more active in the gym. She quickly realized she wanted a career in the fitness space. This role lets her merge her passion for health and wellness with her desire to create a welcoming, successful environment for all members—from their first class to their 500th!
Matraca C -
Director of Training and Development
Matraca is from Rice, MN and went to school at the University of Wisconsin - River Falls for exercise and sports science. She ran track as a sprinter up until her early years at UWRF. She wants exercise to be fun and something for everyone to look forward to every day! Matraca is also our head body comp coach.
AJ M - Studio Manager
AJ is from Cottage Grove, MN and graduated from University of Wisconsin–River Falls with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a minor in Coaching. He played football at UWRF for all four years as a wide receiver, where he developed a deep appreciation for training, discipline, and teamwork. His passion for health and fitness comes from his experience as an athlete and his belief that training builds not only physical strength but also confidence and resilience.
Emily B - Programming Manager
Emily is from Marshfield, WI and studying Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in Psychology at the UW-River Falls. With a background in bodybuilding, she has developed a strong passion in helping others discover what their bodies are capable of. She loves working with people and enjoys the process of helping each individual achieve their fitness goals through personalized training, proper technique, and consistency.
Riley A - Coach
Riley is from Prescott, Wisconsin and attends UW-River Falls where he is studying Business Management. He also serves in the military, where he has developed a strong appreciation for discipline and staying physically prepared. He believes that whatever reason someone has for working out is a good one, but ultimately fitness is about building a long, healthy life. He also appreciates the supportive community at Strength Academy and enjoys being part of a team that helps members succeed.
Gavin P - Coach
Gavin is from Tucson, Arizona and is currently pursuing a degree in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in Business Administration at the UW-River Falls. He is currently a Student Strength and Conditioning Intern at UWRF, where he works with athletes to help them improve their performance in their sport. He has a strong passion for helping people, and he believes physical activity cultivates sustainable habits that individuals can carry throughout their lives.
Taylor H- Coach
Taylor is a Health and Physical Education major at UW-River Falls, originally from Osseo, Wisconsin. With experience coaching JV and middle school girls’ basketball, she’s passionate about fitness, wellness, and helping others build lasting habits. She believes health is more than just appearance or performance—it’s about creating a sustainable lifestyle that promotes confidence, energy, and strength. Her goal is to inspire purposeful movement and balance in every wellness journey.
Gretchen H - Coach
Gretchen is from Eau Claire, Wisconsin and attended the UW-River Falls where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in Cardiac Rehabilitation. She later completed her master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology. Gretchen also played soccer at UWRF for five years. She has always lived an active lifestyle and her passion for health and fitness led her to pursue a career helping others improve their wellbeing.