Staff Spotlight: Staci Hayes
Welcome to our "Staff Spotlight" series! In this collection of ongoing posts on The Western Blog, we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make Western special! From passionate trainers & instructors to knowledgeable nutritionists and tennis pros, and many other dedicated staff members, we'll introduce you to the talented team behind the scenes. Learn about their expertise and background, plus some fun facts!
Our staff member in the spotlight this week is Staci Hayes, Director of Member Outreach Pickleball & Adult Tennis League Coordinator! You may know her as the friendly face behind our Pickleball and Tennis coordination and our We Connect Buddy Program, but did you also know she’s NEVER had a drop of coffee in her whole life!? Keep reading to learn more about Staci!
Q: How long have you been at Western?
A: I’ve worked at Western for over 2.5 years, and prior to that, I was a member for 10 years.
Q: What is your title/job description at Western?
A: Director of Membership Outreach/ Pickleball & Adult Tennis League Coordinator
Q: What made you want to work at Western?
A: After some big changes in my life, I struggled to find a work home that fit and made me happy. Working out has always been my happy place, so when the opportunity arose at Western, I knew I had finally found my fit.
Q: What is your favorite activity to do at Western?
A: I’ve trained with Alex for over 2 years now, and I look forward to it every week.
Q: What is your favorite kind of workout?
A: Circuit and Strength Training
Q: Do you participate in any fitness activities outside of Western?
A: I rollerblade and always love a good walk or hike.
Q: What’s your favorite non-fitness hobby (or hobbies)?
A: I love to read, decorate for the holidays and organize.
Q: What motivates you?
A: My age. I work very hard to make age just a number!
Q: Who inspires you?
A: I would say what inspires me versus who. Life and health inspire me. I want to be happy, make memories, and stay healthy as long as possible.
Q: If you could work out with any famous person, who would you pick?
A: Kari Merrill (Western’s Programming Director)! To me, she is famous in such a real and meaningful way. She’s the ultimate in the workout world and makes a difference in so many people’s lives. She’s a true badass!
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or any words of wisdom you can share?
A: Two quotes that mean a lot: Nothing you wear is more important than your smile. When you love what you have, you have everything you need.
Q: What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever visited?
A: Venice, Italy
Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
A: Jason Aldean
Q: What’s your favorite junk food?
A: Cream-filled donut
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
A: Visiting Banff in Alberta, Canada
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: The best part is that I don’t have co-workers—I have incredible friends who make this job so much fun and give me daily laughs. We call it the Western family for a reason. And, of course, our incredible members!
Q: What’s something you’re proud of?
A: 100% my three kids!
Q: What are some fun facts about you?
A: I made it through 5 years of college (yes, I loved college!!) without ever having to drink beer. In 53 years, I have never had coffee.
Lightning Round: This or That Questions
Coffee or tea? Neither
Cats or dogs? Dogs
Early bird or night owl? Neither. I love my sleep!
Power of flight or invisibility? Power of Flight
Tattoos or piercings? Tattoos
Outer space or the bottom of the ocean? Bottom of the ocean
Christmas or your birthday? Christmas
Breakfast or dinner? Breakfast all day!!
Texting or calling? Both
Burgers or tacos? Burgers
Movie at home or movie in the theater? Movie at home
Introvert or extrovert? Combination of both