Leading Coaches Stand Out at the Northeast Classic

When it comes to natural bodybuilding contests that deliver on fairness, professionalism, and opportunity, Begic Productions continues to raise the standard. The 2025 ANBF Northeast Classic, held in Massachusetts, was not only a showcase of elite athletes—it was a reflection of the high-level coaching that fuels the sport.

While every athlete and coach’s support is appreciated, several standout teams made a strong impression this year.

Michael Cuciniello, founder of Team Rare Breed and co-owner of Rare Breed Fitness, brought both strategy and precision to the stage. A respected transformation and prep coach, Cuciniello’s client Larissa won her Pro Figure class and was awarded Best Pro Female in Show, taking home the NEC Championship Belt.

Another force on the rise is Cara Volpicelli of Team Rize, a Massachusetts native with a reputation for producing polished, competitive athletes. Team Rize walked away with major wins, including a Wellness Pro Card, both Open Bikini classes, and the Open Bikini Overall. Athlete Meg Cormier earned a custom NEC Championship ring for her Bikini Open A and Overall victories.

Also in attendance was Bonnie Lefrak of The Fitness Asylum, a coach known for introducing more athletes to natural bodybuilding than anyone in the region. Her team has shown consistency and depth across events like Springmania and now the Northeast Classic.

Dave Blondin of Team Prime—another Massachusetts staple—brought a strong crew and continues to be a pillar in the natural bodybuilding scene, running a gym and supplement store that supports the community. His team took home 1st place in Pro Women’s Bodybuilding.

Team SUF, led by Shauna Koehler, Amanda Cence, Jess Hiatt, and Rob Kaminski (with Ryan Sullivan serving as promoter), had a powerful showing as well. Highlights included a Pro Card in Men’s Bodybuilding, the NEC Championship Belt for Best Male Amateur (Corbin Cain), 1st in Pro Men’s Physique (Olatunji Fujah), and three Women’s Pro Cards earned by Anissa T. across FemFit, Open Figure, and Masters Figure.

These results remind us that well-run, drug-tested shows like the Northeast Classic—backed by ANBF’s 7-year drug-free policy, polygraph testing, and random screening protocols—create a level playing field where both coaches and athletes can truly thrive.