Dina Castillo

My Story

Dina's passion for exercise and sports performance runs deep. Growing up with four brothers who were D1 wrestlers and a sister who played club soccer at the college level, she was immersed in an environment that active and competitive. Her own experience as a collegiate soccer player further shaped her understanding of athletic performance, and today, she draws on this diverse family background to help athletes from all sports maximize their potential. 

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In addition to her extensive experience as an athlete, Dina has over 10 years of coaching experience in travel soccer, where she has helped young athletes improve their skills and reach their goals on the field. She currently serves as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Celtics Soccer Club and as an Assistant Girls Cross Country Coach at Lyons Township High School (LTHS), focusing on building strength, endurance, and overall athletic performance.

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Dina empowers girls and women to disrupt the norm by embracing weightlifting as a powerful way to build confidence, strength, and resilience. She supports everyone lifting—her son and all the boys included—but recognizes there hasn’t been enough focus on girls lifting, and her goal is to remove the stigma that holds them back. Dina creates a supportive and safe space where female athletes are encouraged to challenge weight room norms, push their limits, and redefine what strength looks like—physically and mentally—for the next generation.

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Dina is also pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership in Health and Human Performance at Concordia University Chicago, complementing her academic background with hands-on coaching experience. She holds both a Bachelor's and Master’s degree in Exercise Science, as well as certifications as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA-CSCS), Corrective Exercise Specialist (NASM-CES), USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach (USAW), and a 200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher (200 CYT). As a K-12 Certified Health and Physical Education Teacher, Dina is committed to fostering lifelong fitness and wellness across all age groups.

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Whether you're an athlete looking to elevate your performance or a parent seeking expert guidance for your child's development, Dina offers a well-rounded approach that combines practical experience, academic knowledge, and a passion for holistic fitness.