Dean Perry
Position: Coach
Sports Experience: Basketball
Years Coaching: 1
College: Columbia JC
Bio
Coaching Career Overview:
Dean is a homegrown product of LEAD Performance. Once an athlete in the very same gym, he now steps into a coaching role with firsthand understanding of what it takes to thrive in the LEAD system. His journey from athlete to coach gives him a unique perspective—bridging the gap between training on the floor and leading athletes through it.
Coaching Philosophy:
Known for work ethic, grit, and relatability, Dean connects deeply with athletes because he’s been in their shoes. His experience training under the same programs now fuels his coaching philosophy: be the hardest worker in the room.
Education and Certifications:
Dean holds an AA Degree from Columbia College in Psychology while pursuing his BS in Kinesiology, along with other Personal Training Certifications.
Personal Life:
Beyond the gym, Dean played 2 years of college basketball at Columbia College, one of the top JUCO programs in California. He hopes to pursue a career working in Adaptive PE and remain in the Strength & Conditioning world. He takes pride in giving back to the same community that helped shape him and is dedicated to paying it forward by helping the next generation of athletes achieve more than they thought possible.
Get to Know Dean
What motivates you most as a coach?
I have a passion for pouring into others in the same way that I was impacted as an athlete. So many coaches helped me along my athletic career and I wish to do the same.
What’s your favorite sports memory—either as an athlete or a coach?
In my junior year of HS, when I made a game-winning shot in the championship game of a tournament, I ran into the stands to hug my dad right after. He’s been my biggest fan my whole life and has supported me through everything.
How would you describe your coaching philosophy in one sentence?
Never letting someone outwork you, being the “hardest worker in the room.”
What do you enjoy most outside the gym—hobby, hometown activity, etc.?
I am super rooted in my faith so I love going to church and reading my Bible. Also, I enjoy just surrounding myself with people I love.
What’s one unique thing about your background or journey that shapes how you coach?
I’ve never been the most skilled or talented player on the court, so outworking them was never a choice, it was something I had to do in order to make an impact. Regardless of who you are or what you look like, strive to be your best and work as hard as possible all the time.