Physical Therapist | Director of Performance

PT, DPT, ATC, LAT, VRS, ASTYM

A native of Olympia, Brandon has been involved in the sports medicine community and physical therapy field in the south sound region since 2004.

Trained as both an athletic trainer and physical therapist, Brandon has always had a passion for helping athletes and patients of all ages reach their full potential. Over his 20 years of experience, Brandon has worked with athletes involved with all aspects of sports injuries, post-op rehab, injury prevention, and performance enhancement. Brandon has gained knowledge and expertise in postural restoration and biomechanics of the human body which encompasses treatment of traditional pathologies, sports injuries, and more complicated cases such as TMD and scoliosis.

Brandon is a certified Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist (VRS) having expertise in the treatment of vestibular issues such as dizziness and Post-concussion pathology. Brandon’s whole body approach combines manual therapy, on-the-field training, and clinical rehabilitation expertise to meet the patient’s goals and determine the root cause of the problem.

Chiropractor | Director of Education

DC, MS

Dr. Lam, a chiropractic sports physician, brings over 23 years of experience in soft tissue work. With a background in massage therapy and advanced certifications in techniques such as trigger point therapy, cross-friction massage, pin and stretch, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, and neurodynamic mobilization, Dr. Lam emphasizes a patient-centered approach. Believing that soft tissue work is the foundation of rehabilitation, he focuses on healing tissue, restoring range of motion, and re-establishing mobility before strength and conditioning. Dr. Lam has worked with athletes of all ages, treating both acute and chronic injuries, often helping patients regain functionality they feared was lost. After trade school for massage therapy, Dr. Lam earned his Bachelor of Science from Purdue University. He then obtained a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, and later completed a Master's in Exercise and Sport Science from Western States University. In addition to his clinical practice, he is an adjunct professor of sports medicine at St. Martin's University. Along with his passion for treating patients and teaching, Dr. Lam is an avid lifelong swimmer who competes in open-water swimming events and Ironman triathlons.

Director of Operations | General Manager | Performance Trainer | Soccer Specialist

NASM, CSCS, B.S.

Abbey has over 10+years in the athletic performance space. Her lifelong passion for athlete development, was fueled by her own athletic journey. As a former Division I soccer player, her experience overcoming a career-altering injury ignited her commitment to resilience, mental toughness, and performance—especially for female athletes. She blends mental and physical training to help athletes unlock their full potential on and off the field.

Abbey played at Portland State University from 2013–2016, where she was a 3-year starter, team captain, and earned all-conference honors including Freshman of the Year. A proud Tumwater native and top-15 national recruit, she competed in Youth National Championships, ODP/EDP at all levels, and ECNL with Washington Premier. She now gives back as Head Coach of the Tumwater Thunderbirds Girls Soccer Program—wearing the green proudly as both a former player and now coach.

In addition to her coaching background, Abbey brings over a decade of professional experience in leadership, operations, and strategic management. She has served as a Project Manager, Program Director, Grant Manager, and College Athletics Specialist, overseeing multimillion-dollar programs and cross-functional teams. Her expertise in budgeting, systems design, community partnerships, and team development uniquely position her to lead The Lab as General Manager, ensuring excellence across performance, operations, and client experience.

Outside of work, Abbey is an avid reader, self-proclaimed foodie and coffee connoisseur who enjoys staying active, spending time with her dog Rocky, and hosting dinner parties and game nights with friends and family.

Physical Therapist

PT, DPT

Sarah has been practicing physical therapy in the Olympia area for 15 years since receiving her doctoral degree from the University of Puget Sound in 2010. During undergraduate school, she worked as a student athletic trainer at Pacific Lutheran University. She gained experience in sports injury assessment, rehabilitation and taping/modalities to enhance the athlete’s ability to recover and return to sport.

She is the co-owner of PT Empowered and works in the hospital setting. She has knowledge of complex medical conditions, post-surgical protocols and assessing dizziness. She values one on one patient care and working with patients to maximize their physical function, reduce pain and promote wellness. When Sarah is not working, she enjoys hiking, camping, cooking, gardening and time with her family and animals.

Physical Therapist

PT, MPT

George brings 25 years of experience as a Physical Therapist to the LAB. He is a local, after graduating from Tumwater High School, George attended Washington State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1994. He earned his Master in Physical Therapy at Eastern Washington University in 1998. George brings expertise in movement dysfunction, manual therapy treatment techniques and therapeutic and functional based exercise prescription.  George has a significant background in leadership and mentorship and works hard to bring a collaborative approach to the care of patients.

George has an extensive history of working with athletes throughout his 25 years- including postoperative care, preoperative diagnosis and treatment of injury and specific interest in working with shoulder and knee impairment. George has particular interest in the area of movement dysfunction and prescriptive treatments to facilitate return to normal function as well as maximizing performance. George has a passion for continuing education and growth and is inspired by the collaborative approach of the professionals at The LAB.

George’s personal interests include- Downhill Skiing, Fly fishing, Deep Sea Fishing, Cycling, and Mountain Biking.

Chiropractor | Nutritionist

DC

Dr. Amanda Kugel is a chiropractic physician with 12 years of clinical experience. She offers joint manipulation, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and has completed advanced training in perinatal and pediatric care. Dr. Kugel draws from her experience as an anatomy and nutrition educator in the college health sciences to ensure her patients are well-informed and actively involved in their treatment plans. Her dedication to movement and nutrition stems from her passion for helping patients achieve their optimal health and performance.

Performance Trainer | Basketball Specialist

NASM, B.S.

Brandell Evans is a local product of Timberline High School, graduating in 2015 before continuing his basketball career at Western Oregon University, where he competed at the collegiate level and graduated in 2019. Throughout his playing career, Brandell was known for his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to team success—qualities he now brings into his coaching and training.

Currently, Brandell serves as a player development coach and assistant coach at Centralia College, where he plays a key role in mentoring student-athletes both on and off the court. As a member of The Lab team, he combines his lived experience as a high-level athlete with a deep understanding of strength and performance training. Brandell is passionate about helping young athletes unlock their potential—meeting them where they’re at and guiding them toward where they want to go, whether in the weight room, on the court, or in life.

Performance Trainer + Baseball Specialist

Colton Turner, is the Head Baseball/Softball Trainer at The Lab Performance Therapy and the head coach of Dudes Baseball that plays in the Pacific International League (PIL) Collegiate league. Colton specializes in biomechanics and overall efficiency, with a focus on helping athletes gain velocity while staying healthy and improving their pitching/throwing skills.

Colton has a Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and utilizes mental health performance in sports to help the athlete maximize their potential physically and mentally. 

With four years of college baseball experience, and occasionally playing in national men’s fastpitch tournaments, Colton’s passion for the game is evident in everything he does. Colton is committed not only to improving his players' physical performance, but also to enhancing their knowledge of the game and boosting their confidence both on and off the field. 

Performance Trainer

M.S. Kinesiology

Jax Robinson, M.S. in Sports Rehabilitation (Kinesiology), brings a dynamic blend of performance training, injury prevention, and functional movement expertise to The Lab.

A former collegiate dancer and owner of a competitive dance studio for 10 years, she led her team to win “Studio of the Year” at Daytona Nationals in 2024 and earned numerous awards for strength, flexibility, and technique. Jax combines her dance background with Pilates principles and a strong mind-body connection, creating programs that match each individual’s movement patterns and goals. She’s worked with athletes from preschool beginners to adult professionals, helping them build strength, improve mobility, and perform at their best.

Her coaching style is detail-oriented, encouraging, and designed to make every session purposeful. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone wanting to move better and feel stronger, Jax tailors each program to meet you where you are and take you where you want to go.

Outside of The Lab, Jax enjoys spending time with her dog, exploring new workout classes, going for walks, savoring good coffee, and being with family and friends. A music fanatic and lifelong learner, she’s always seeking new ways to help clients succeed.

Volleyball Specialist

A product of Tumwater Volleyball and a Division I standout at Gonzaga, Kennedy Croft brings elite playing experience, competitive fire, and a deep love for the game to every session. Her journey from athlete to coach gives her a unique ability to relate, inspire, and lead.

At The Lab, Kennedy creates a high-energy, high-accountability environment where athletes are pushed to grow—not just in skill, but in confidence, mindset, and leadership. She coaches with intention, demands excellence, and believes in doing things the right way—with discipline, connection, and belief.

Volleyball Specialist

With decades of coaching experience and a legacy of competitive success, Tana Otton brings unmatched wisdom, clarity, and heart to every athlete she works with. As one of Washington’s most respected high school volleyball coaches, she’s led teams to state titles and helped shape generations of leaders - on and off the court.

At The Lab, Tana blends technical precision with real-life mentorship. Her ability to connect, challenge, and elevate athletes sets a powerful standard. She teaches the game the right way - with fundamentals, intensity, and joy.

Soccer Specialist and Mental Performance Coach

M.A., CMPC

Brice grew up in Colorado Springs, CO, and went on to attend the University of Sioux Falls for his undergraduate studies, where he started all four years on the university's soccer team while double-majoring in psychology and exercise science. He then attended graduate school at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he served as a Graduate Assistant and technical skills coach for the #1-ranked women's soccer team, earning his master's degree in Sport and Performance Psychology.

Brice joins The Lab with over a decade of experience in high-level play and youth coaching. 

In addition to coaching, Brice also brings 10 years of Cognitive Mental Performance Coaching experience and is currently working full-time for the U.S. Army, teaching mental skills to enhance Soldier performance. Over the past four years, he has worked with the Army's Warrior Games team and the 2025 USA Invictus team. Brice recognizes that while physical training is essential for athletic success, mental training is equally critical to reach peak performance. He is skilled at teaching athletes the mental tools needed to build confidence, maintain motivation, and perform in high-pressure situations. Brice looks forward to introducing mental performance training to The Lab and contributing to the holistic development of every athlete.

Performance Trainer

CSCS, B.S.

Brian was born and raised in Auburn, where his passion for
athletics began early. He attended Evergreen Lutheran High
School, competing in basketball, football, baseball, and soccer,
before continuing his basketball career at Wisconsin Lutheran
College.

Brian earned his Bachelor’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology through the University of Florida. With a background in collegiate strength and conditioning and physical therapy, he brings a well-rounded, science-driven approach to performance
training.

Brian is passionate about developing athletes at every stage,
helping them prepare for their next level of competition while also
building confidence, discipline, and resilience that extend far
beyond sport.

Baseball Specialist | Head Coach 10U Lab Regulators

Conley Sampson recently relocated from Bellevue to Olympia with his family and is excited to put down long-term roots. A native of Southern Orange County, California, he is a former professional player and seasoned coach with over 20 years of experience developing baseball and softball athletes from youth through the professional level. Following his playing career, he worked with Major League Baseball as a specialist coach, earned All-California Collegiate League honors, served as an offseason professional bullpen catcher, and was a longtime catcher featured on ESPN’s Sports Science.

Conley earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University, shaping his focus on the mental side of performance. He specializes in baseball and softball psychology and provides instruction in catching, hitting, infield, and outfield, with an emphasis on building confident, mentally strong athletes. Today, Conley is the Head Coach of the 10U LAB Regulators softball team and the catching instructor at the LAB.

He is married to Colette and is a proud father to their daughter, Lyonette.

Performance Trainer | Speed Specialist

CSCS, B.S.

Originally from the midwest, Matt Lumkes studied Kinesiology at Purdue University before beginning his coaching career. After a brief stint in football, he found a passion for rugby through a recruitment pathway post-college which opened up opportunities across the United States, Ireland, United Kingdom, and New Zealand. In addition to rugby, Matt was recruited and spent time with Team USA Bobsled camps at the Olympic Training Center as a brakeman and pilot at both Lake Placid and Park City.

His philosophy revolves around doing the simple things well - consistency over infrequent bursts of motivation and that enjoyment is a key for success (although hard work and enjoyment are not mutually exclusive). While Matt enjoys working with general sports performance, he has a passion for speed development and believes the benefits transfer to nearly all sports. Matt has experience coaching around the United States working with numerous athletes who have secured collegiate scholarships across a variety of sports, working with nationally ranked high school football programs, and assisting with NFL Combine Prep group in Colorado. While most recently operating as the head coach at a gym in Wanaka, NZ, he has relocated to the PNW to build roots and is looking forward to getting involved with the sports community here. 

Outside of coaching, Matt is involved with the Seattle Rugby community as well as enjoying time in the water freediving, spearfishing, and with his wife Gabi who competes professionally in Ironman Triathlon.

Lacrosse Specialist

B.S.

Cody is a former Collegiate Lacrosse Player and dedicated coach bringing elite-level expertise in strength, speed, and agility to The LAB. Combining his experience playing multiple sports at a high level, his deep understanding of the physical and technical demands of lacrosse, Cody's goal is to translate that background into actionable, results-driven training programs.

With a strong track record of developing athletes from the youth level through high school, Cody is heavily involved in the local lacrosse community. Currently serving as the Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator for Olympia High School and Head Coach with South Sound Lacrosse, Cody regularly collaborates with top-tier professional players to integrate elite training standards into everyday practice.

Passionate about bridging the gap between physical conditioning and in-game tactical execution, Cody ensures every athlete builds a strong physical foundation to support long-term performance and injury prevention.

Volleyball Specialist

B.S.

Molly Cichosz Mendez is a former Division I and Division II collegiate volleyball player with over six years of high school coaching experience. She competed at Loyola University Maryland before finishing her collegiate career at Saint Martin’s University and has coached athletes ranging from beginners learning the fundamentals to varsity players competing at the state level.

As the former head coach of Tumwater High School’s varsity volleyball program, Molly helped lead the team to multiple league championships and deep postseason runs while developing athletes both on and off the court. She is passionate about creating a positive, challenging environment where players build confidence, improve their technical skills, and develop a deeper understanding of the game.

Outside of the gym, Molly works full-time as an accountant, bringing organization, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic into every aspect of her coaching. Whether she’s working with athletes who are touching a volleyball for the first time or experienced players striving to compete at the next level, her goal is the same: help every athlete reach their potential while fostering a genuine love for the sport.