Head Coach
Austin Van Dam
Bachelor of Science Degree (BSc) at Mount Royal University
NCCP Certified Olympic Weightlifting Coach
Powerlifting Coaching
FRC Mobility Specialist
Austin Van Dam has been a dedicated trainer since 2017, with a passion for unlocking the true strength potential in every individual. Since 2019, he has specialized in coaching both competitive and recreational strength athletes in Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting, as well as supporting first-time gym-goers and athletes from various sports.
Austin’s mission is to coach clients to achieve their physical and mental best by tailoring training programs that push their boundaries and build confidence. Austin has since taken athletes to provincial and national level competitions and is always pushing his athletes to achieve their goals. He firmly believes in leading by example, which is why he consistently sets ambitious goals for his training.
Austin strives to stay at the forefront of fitness knowledge through ongoing education, mentorships, and seminars. Whether you're looking to excel in your sport or embark on a new fitness journey, Austin is here to provide the guidance and expertise needed to reach and surpass your goals.
Coach
Shelby Harper
Bachelor of Health and Physical Education
NCCP Certified Olympic Weightlifting Coach
Powerlifting Coaching
Shelby’s journey into fitness began at age 15, when he stepped into the gym for the first time. Growing up with limited sports experience, he quickly discovered the importance of strength training.
Initially enrolled in the science program at Mount Royal University, he realized after a couple of years that his true calling lay in fitness and physical education. His newfound interest in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and powerlifting partially influenced this shift in focus. Shelby completed his bachelor's degree in health and physical education in 2019 and began his coaching career shortly after. That same year, Shelby started training for Olympic Weightlifting under Austin Van Dam, which led to him joining Synaptic Strength in 2024.
Shelby has since coached powerlifting athletes up to the regional level and has coached in Olympic Weightlifting competitions. He is dedicated to helping clients reach their goals, fully understanding that every person will come across a wide variety of challenges along the way. Seeing his clients become both physically and mentally stronger has become his favourite part of coaching. Shelby is committed to continuously learning and refining his coaching every day.