Earlier today, CrossFit’s former Director of Training Nicole Carroll announced that she would be making her return. Her decision was made after several conversations with soon to be CrossFit owner and CEO Eric Roza.
Three weeks ago, Carroll resigned amidst the controversy that stemmed from former CrossFit CEO Greg Glassman’s tweets about the Black Lives Matter Movement. In her statement, Carroll said, “Unfortunately, a line has been drawn to where each of us will be held accountable for the words that do not represent who we have been.”
Since then, there has been a call for a change in leadership by some of the biggest names in the sport as well as affiliate owners. Roza’s purchase of the company and Carroll’s return seem like steps in that direction.
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“Just over three weeks ago I resigned my position with CrossFit. Today, I could not be happier to make the announcement that I am returning.“
Carroll was one of the first members at the first CrossFit gym in Santa Cruz, California and worked as the Director of Training for 16 years — a title, for most of which, she shared with Dave Castro. Despite the timing of her resignation, Carroll notes that it was not any one particular issue that led to her departure from the company stating:
“While it may have appeared that a single issue or instance prompted my leaving, this was not the totality of it. However, that’s in the past. At this time, I want to focus on the present and my hope for the future. There is hope and healing in the air for the community.”
Part of that healing comes in the form of a rebuilding of the culture within CrossFit HQ, something Roza discussed recently during a live interview via Zoom call with acting CrossFit CEO Dave Castro.
“When we think about culture, I always feel culture wants to be authentically aligned with the brand.”
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Carroll comments on that focus on culture in her Instagram post stating:
“There is an authentic commitment to creating a healthy & inclusive company culture, mending relationships, innovating forward, and restoring a sense of pride in the CrossFit name. I want to be part of this future. I am ready for a new beginning and the opportunity to be back where I belong.”
Feature image from Eric Roza’s Instagram page: @rozaeric