MEET OUR TRAINERS.
At Rise Performance 618 every trainer gets OTA certified, meaning they are equipped in the programing, coaching, and principles to create better athletes.
DYLAN SAMUEL
My name is Dylan Samuel, and I am a Strength Coach/Health Teacher at Carterville High School.
I found a passion for sport performance training during my time on the football team at McKendree University. While attending school, I obtained both a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science and Master’s in Teaching. I take great pride in being able to help student-athletes become the best version of themselves both inside and outside of the weight room.
DAWSON MONTFORT
Dawson Montfort is a distinguished strength and conditioning coach with an impressive track record as a 4x national champion and 2x world champion in the field. With a passion for developing athletic potential, Dawson has successfully trained thousands of athletes across a diverse range of sports, from professional to youth levels, including those as young as eight years old. His expertise has led to the training of athletes who have achieved over 30 state, national, and world records in powerlifting, as well as numerous individuals winning state championships. Additionally, Dawson has propelled over 60 athletes into collegiate sports careers. His commitment to excellence and tailored training programs ensures that every athlete he works with is empowered to reach their peak performance.
MYA KING
Hi my name is Mya King! I am a graduate of Harrisburg High School where I played softball for 4 years. I started my college career at SIC, graduating with an Associate’s degree while playing softball in the primary position of center field. I transferred to Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas to continue playing softball and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Fitness and Wellness in 2024. In my free time I enjoy spending time in the gym, hiking and spending time with friends and family.
PAM HALL
My name is Pam Hall, and I love spending time with my family, working out, and training clients each week. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Recreation and Leisure Services from Murry State University. I have been teaching fitness classes for 32 years and have been a NASM Certified Trainer for the last 17 years. I have a passion for encouraging people to be the best versions of themselves. I enjoy teaching people how to change their lifestyle for the better through exercise and nutrition. I teach a weekly HIIT class and run 4-5 Six-week Bootcamps per year. I believe that everyone has their own strengths, and I am here to create a plan that will fit their individual needs. At the end of the day, it is NOT about comparing yourself to fitness models, but to create a body that YOU love and are comfortable in every day. I will make you WORK HARD, but I will ALWAYS do it with a smile!
Bryce Smith
Hi, I’m Bryce Smith, a dedicated youth strength coach and personal trainer at Rise Performance. I specialize in helping athletes build strength, resilience, and unlock their full potential. As a former football player at Aurora University, I understand the drive and discipline required to push past both physical and mental barriers. This mindset is at the core of every training session I lead, whether I’m working with young athletes or clients of all fitness levels. Currently studying at the University of Southern Illinois, I’m continually expanding my expertise in strength and conditioning to better serve my clients. While it sometimes feels like I live in the gym, I thrive in this environment, it’s where my passion for fitness comes alive and fuels my work each day.
TESTIMONIALS
Rise Performance Athletes
"My son started working out at Rise Performance and his self confidence has flourished. Something I didn't think about! Bryce is so great with young kids, not just teaching them weight but real life. He feels like it’s his place!"
