Thinking about a career as a coach?
THINKING ABOUT A CAREER
as a coach?
What if your passion for fitness could become something more? Join us for a free event to explore the possibilities of a career in fitness. You’ll hear honest insights from people who have built successful careers in the industry, understand the pathway to becoming a qualified coach, and discover whether coaching is the right career for you.
90 mins
of industry insights and real career advice
Industry experts
sharing their journey and answering your questions
Live Q&A
get your specific questions answered in real time



Meet your industry experts

Justin Ashley
CEO & Founder
With 20 years of experience in the fitness industry, Justin has held several club-based positions before co-founding the award-winning gyms, One Playground and The Bunker. As the leader of the company, he has successfully expanded it to four locations, with over 35k members and more than 300 staff. Justin is most proud of being recognised as one of Australia’s Top 50 Great Places to Work.

Tom Merriman
Head of Education
As Head of Education at One Playground, Tom is dedicated to elevating the standard of fitness coaching in Australia. With deep experience across coaching, business management, and exercise programming, he develops people-first, practical education that prepares coaches for real careers – not just certificates. Tom leads the Academy’s mission to reshape fitness education, empowering professionals with the skills, confidence, and hands-on learning they need to create meaningful, long-lasting change for their clients.

Matt Duncan
Head of Coaching
Matt’s nationally recognised ‘Breakthrough’ program as a youth worker inspired him to help people through fitness. He now works with a diverse client base, including stroke survivors, cerebral palsy patients, athletes, business owners, and actors. Matt also provides structured education on movement and personal development to over 100 coaches at One Playground.

Laura Basta
Head of Group Training
Laura is our Head of Group Training, leading the vision behind our diverse and industry-leading class offering. Her journey has taken her from performing in the circus in France to shaping the future of fitness in Sydney. Today, she leads our Group Training department, driving trainer development, fostering a culture of excellence, and bringing to life the innovative studio concepts and unforgettable class experiences that define One Playground.
Event Details
Date
Wednesday 19 August
Duration
6pm - 7:30pm
Cost
Free
Location
One Playground Merrylands

