On Saturday, 12th of July, the One Playground team came together for our first One Life Summit, a day of education, development and community building to help our team grow and connect, in turn becoming better coaches, trainers and team leaders for our members.

Prior to the event, we asked our members to vote for their favourite One Playground team, the people who make their workouts better, mornings brighter, or goals feel more within reach. We had over 1000 votes from members highlighting the people who go above and beyond to make One Playground what it is.

We also put the vote to our staff, asking them which of their colleagues inspires them.

Discover who was nominated and who took home the prize!

Members Choice

Coach of the Year

Nominees

Alek Leyland, Rob Knee, Matt Gardner, Alessandro Sciamanna, Issy Brophy, Jenny Duncan, Jacqueline Marinkovic, Achilles Byrne, Daylan Ozkan and Roberta Perriello.

Coach of the Year Winner

Jacqueline Marinkovic

“Jacquie changed my life, and she probably didn’t even realise it. When I first started training with her, I just wanted to ‘get fit’. I thought I was signing up for a few workouts and maybe some help with my form. What I got instead was a coach, a mentor, and someone who genuinely cared about me, not just my progress in the gym. Jacquie has this unique way of making you feel like you belong, no matter your level. I remember one session early on where I broke down mid-workout. It wasn’t about the weights; I was dealing with some heavy personal stuff. She didn’t brush it off or awkwardly ignore it. She paused, gave me space, listened, and gently reminded me, ‘You’re stronger than you think, and I’ve got you.’ That moment stuck with me more than any PB. Over time, she helped me rebuild more than just strength – she rebuilt my confidence. Her programming is thoughtful and always evolving. She pushes just enough, but never too far. She pays attention. If I’ve had a rough week, she knows it before I even say a word. If something feels off, she adapts, no ego, just genuine care. But what really sets Jacqueline apart is her energy. She brings warmth, humour, and a sense of community to every session. You walk in feeling seen. You leave feeling powerful. Thanks to her, I’ve not only transformed physically, I’ve built resilience, self-belief, and discipline that spill into every other part of my life. I honestly don’t think I’d be where I am today, mentally or physically, without her guidance. There are trainers, and then there are life-changers. Jacquie is the latter.”

Service Team of the Year

Nominees

Amie Hession, Annie Lord, Catherine Duong, Juan de la Arena, Kareim Afif, Kate Dyer, Ned Zell, Sam Bruton, Shri Nadarajah and Sophie Highmore.

Service Team of the Year Winner

Sam Bruton

“Sam the Admin Man, I call him! He’s so approachable and helpful and is amazing with a spreadsheet! He’s always able to help with any membership issue. I think he’s a great asset for your front office as he’s so friendly and warm and welcoming.”

Group Trainer of the Year

Nominees

Adam Issa, Andrew Lloyd, Anna Egan, Colleen Anthony, Emma Chapman, Hanna Sadek, Inge Schmidt, Joey Curcio, Jose Da Rocha and Sienna Egan.

Group Trainer of the Year Winner

Adam Issa

“Words can’t describe how much he changed my way of thinking. I’m a small, petite woman, and he told me that I can do it and not to let anyone ruin my confidence. He helped me gain weight and helped me lift much more than I was doing. He messaged me to make sure I was ok if I missed a pulse class with him, he would always make sure my technique was good, and he made me push myself to show how strong I really am. His enthusiasm is unmatched, and his dedication to people is what really makes him stand out.”

Staff Choice

Coach of the Year

Nominees

Chloe Squires, Sam Heseltine, Mica Andino, Kylie Jackes, Jen Irvine, Steven Coyle, Billy Thornill, Ngoc Tran, Adam Issa, and Joey Bowling.

Coach of the Year Winner

Joey Bowling

“Joey has helped me redefine my own sense of what’s achievable in not only fitness but mental capacity. He’s completely changed my attitudes towards health and self-motivation. He manages to do this with constant infectious energy and builds a warm community around him.”

Group Trainer of the Year

Nominees

Jessie Dyer, Mason Battatio, Kate Beckitt, Jose Da Rocha, Joey Bowling, Steph Conlin, Chris Jumman, Kayla Job, Adam Issa, and Jon Balzanelli.

Group Trainer of the Year Winner

Jose Da Rocha

“I’m nominating Jose Da Rocha for his unmatched ability to lead, inspire, and transform lives through fitness. His classes are always spot on – expertly programmed, high-energy, and tailored to every level. But it’s the vibe he creates that truly sets him apart: electric, inclusive, and relentlessly positive. Jose doesn’t just coach bodies-he builds confidence, community, and culture.”

Service Team of the Year

Nominees

Cassandra Anne, Sam Bruton, Ollie Luff, Kaz Kumar, Cosette Jackson, Tom Bellak, Antonia King, Phoebe Schweikert, Amie Hession, and Dom Da Re.

Service Team of the Year Winner

Ollie Luff

“Ollie Luff is one of the hardest workers in the room. He’s always very thoughtful and kind with new members, trying to help them make the most out of their experience, making them feel welcome, and supporting both membership and coaching departments.”