About Ethan founder of HomegrownÂ
My Journey in Fitness
I have been studying fitness training for 20 years and coaching for 13. I had the privilege of running my gym—or as I liked to call it, my “lab”—for 10 amazing years. It became home to hundreds of athletes, from NFL players to peewee teams, and from bodybuilders to powerlifters. The variety of people who trusted me with their fitness was incredible, and I am eternally thankful for each one. Today, the gym continues to thrive under the leadership of Rachel Calabrese, my most impressive mentee.
"Your body can stand almost anything. It’s your mind you have to convince."
From Football to Coaching
I was raised in Brooklyn, New York, by my mother, who has always supported me. My love for fitness started with football during my freshman year of high school. Football gave me a sense of purpose and discipline, which helped me stay focused in an environment where many my age were not. That discipline earned me multiple scholarship offers to play football in college, and I attended Sacred Heart University, where I played linebacker and fullback at the Division 1 level.
After graduating college, I became the assistant director of football operations at the University of Rhode Island. Following my first season, I transitioned into the strength and conditioning department as an intern. During this time, I began privately training athletes and entered the world of competitive powerlifting. It was then that I had to make a choice: pursue strength and conditioning in the college and professional sports world or start my own venture. In February 2014, I founded EPS Athletes. From running high school strength programs to leading 40-person 5 a.m. group classes, EPS Athletes grew into what I like to call a “mini-empire.”
A New Chapter with HomeGrown
In August 2023, I stepped away from EPS Athletes to expand my reach and begin the next chapter of my journey. My goal wasn’t money or fame—I truly believe my purpose is to help others care for their physical health. That’s why I created HomeGrown. Originally designed for Jiu-Jitsu athletes to improve strength, conditioning, and injury prevention, HomeGrown has evolved into a comprehensive fitness system for anyone seeking discipline, physical education, and long-term well-being.
My wife Michelle and I have three beautiful children, with a fourth on the way. One day, we dream of building a family farm. Outside of my work in fitness, I cherish spending time outdoors with friends and family, enjoying the simple joys of life while staying rooted in what truly matters.
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