Introducing The Prototype Challenge Coin

Mike Collette • August 29, 2023
A logo for prototype training systems says grow yourself grow your people
We pride ourselves on being more than just a gym at Prototype Training Systems… as you know we are a coaching community and relationship business above all.
In the spirit of strengthening the bond we share and recognizing the incredible dedication, effort, and camaraderie displayed by our members, we are launching the first edition Prototype Challenge Coin.
My inspiration stems from the revered tradition of military challenge coins. These coins, steeped in honor and history, are given to soldiers to represent comradeship, prove membership in an elite group, and honor extraordinary actions. They are tokens of unity, belonging, and recognition.

I have been fortunate to receive one of these coins from a former 4-star Admiral in the US Navy. I didn’t know it at the time, but he hasn’t given many of these out. They are custom with his credentials and name on it and it’s one of the coolest things I’ve ever been given… and this is a guy who The Pope went to visit him… pretty freaking cool! You can read more about the military’s challenge coins here. 

With that said, both the military and our Challenge Coin is not merely a decorative token. They have to be earned. When you receive one, know that it stands for:

Community: Celebrating the bond we share as members of Prototype Training Systems.

Achievement: Recognizing the milestones you’ve crossed in your fitness journey, be it in skill, dedication, or resilience.
Stewardship: Saluting the spirit of helping, motivating, and uplifting fellow gym members.
Membership: Symbolizing that you’re not just a member, but an integral part of the Prototype community.

So how do you earn this coin?

The coins ARE NOT FOR SALE, and they cannot be claimed but must be earned. Coaches AND long-standing members may be awarded them AND nominated to receive one by peers who they feel have gone above and beyond, either in their training journey or in their contributions to the community.

The Coins are a testament to what we stand for – stewardship, growing ourselves, helping others grow, perseverance, and community. If you receive one of these, our hope is that you recognize you did something pretty special to have earned one.

If you’re a member at Prototype and someone from our community comes to mind let me know.  Not every recommendation will qualify but share with me first and your reasoning.
We have a total of 100 of these that will be given out until they are gone. They won’t last forever, and not everyone will earn one, but everyone has an equal opportunity to receive one.

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Mark has been an amazing member, friend, and a huge part of our community for over 10 years. With his family now training at Prototype as well, he continues to share his journey and inspire others. Thank you for being you, Mark—you truly deserve to be our October POM! 1.) Share your experience at Prototype My experience at Prototype is now, and always has been over the last decade plus, incredibly positive! What’s made it even more special over the recent years is my family now being part of the community, and being positively impacted by the environment that Prototype creates. 2.) What is your favorite part about being at Prototype? The community, the relationships, and the positive impact Prototype has had on me and my family over the years. Some of my best friends are now at Prototype. Relationships that have been developed over years of doing tough workouts together, competitions and events inside & outside the gym, golf trips and get togethers. The youth programs and remote coaching programs have also allowed my family to be members of the community which is incredibly important to my wife and I. 3.) What are your hobbies and activities? Pretty much anything outside. But lots of golf, hiking, and sports with my kids. 4.) How has Prototype helped you or solved a problem for you? This would be a long list! One example would be dealing with setbacks. I’ve learned fitness is a long journey, not just a one size fits all fix. There's lots of turns and detours on that journey. Being here for so long my body and my abilities have adapted over time. With all the different things Prototype has to offer, and coaches that are so committed to the members, I’ve continued to be able to find a path forward regardless of the set back of change in my abilities. Another example would be resiliency. Stay on path isn’t easy, especially when that path seems like it never ends. Through Prototype, and side programs I’m part through Prototype, I’ve been building the resiliency muscles which has had a huge impact on my personal health & life as well as my professional life. 5.) What are you continuing fitness goals to this point? -Continue to do hard things. Put something in the calendar each year that kinda scares me and I have to work toward. I want this to be a physical and mental challenge. -Rebuild the strength in my legs, and work towards squatting again. This may require a setback, but something I really want. -Build more muscle! 6.) Favorite Quote You want to go fast, go alone. You want to go far, go together!
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