Meet the team

Hi, I’m Dan Janowski

After completing my ten years in the Royal Navy, I enrolled at Solent University to study a BSc (hons) in Sports Coaching, earning a 1st Class degree.

Together with my previous business partner, Active8 Minds® was developed in 2014, during my final year of university.

Since 2014, I have surpassed our goals and branched out into new regions. I’m excited about the prospect of further expansion and am thrilled to have introduced our first franchisee to the Winchester region.

I am sincerely appreciative of my family and friends’ support, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have such a fantastic team on my side.
My main objective is to keep people of all ages active and to make sport and activities FUN, ENGAGING, and available to everyone!

In my spare time, I like to cook, stay in shape, socialise with friends, and watch Manchester United, the football team I grew up supporting. If I’m not at work or spending time with my family, you can find me on a local golf course, attempting to lower my handicap.

Dan Janowski
Company Owner and Director

Hi, I’m Claire

Since 2015, I have worked for Active8 Minds. I worked as a Parent & Child Multiskills Coach for the company on a part-time basis, teaching a variety of classes. I later advanced to an Office Assistant position where I worked in sales and customer service.

My position has changed since then, and I am now Head of Operations. I am responsible for customer service, business relations, sales and company development. I recently earned a distinction in both a Level 5 Business, Management, and Leadership Course and a Level 2 AAT course.

 

I have experience in sales, customer service, and fitness, and I like every aspect of my job and working with the Active8 Minds tem. I’m passionate about encouraging children and adults to be active and raising the popularity of the Active8 Minds organisation.

Claire Rutter
Head of Operations

Hi I’m Elliot

I began my journey with Active8 Minds over ten years ago as a part-time multi-sports coach. Since then, I progressed into a full-time role as Lead Sports Coach/Manager , and I now serve as the company’s Culture & Support Lead as part of the senior management team.

In my current position, I focus on staff wellbeing, providing guidance, support, and direction to team members across the organisation. I also work closely with our operations team, contributing to the smooth running of day-to-day activities while promoting positive mental health among both staff and the children in our care.

Alongside this, I support recruitment and onboarding, helping new team members settle into their roles and grow within Active8 Minds. I collaborate with new business partners to ensure a strong and successful start, and I also serve as the company’s DDSL.

A key part of my role involves fostering a positive team culture through organising social events, team-building activities, and ongoing projects across the organisation.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends, attending sporting events, and getting involved in a wide range of sports. I’m a long-time supporter of Portsmouth FC and have a strong interest in anything animal-related

Elliot Sills
Culture & Support Lead

Hi, I’m Dan.

I have been with Active8 Minds since March 2024, after graduating from the University of Chichester.  I joined the company as a Lead Sports Coach, coaching at our wraparound care provisions as well as managing our Holiday Clubs.  I have progressed into my current role as the Development & Engagement Lead.  I am responsible for organising and delivering provisions to local communities across Hampshire, that are fully inclusive to all no matter age or ability.

One of my biggest passions is working with children and adults from different backgrounds and supplying everyone with an opportunity.  Witnessing the impact first hand that our sessions have on each and every one of the participants each day is definitely the most rewarding part of my work!

When I’m not working, I play football for Petersfield Town, and when I can, support my hometown team Northampton Town!

Dan Wood
Development & Engagement Lead

Hi I’m Connor,

I am the Workforce & Training Lead at Active8 Minds, specialising in learning and development within the sports and education sector. I play a key role in shaping recruitment and training across the organisation.

I began my journey with Active8 Minds as a Lead Sports Coach and have progressed through roles including Assistant Staff Development Officer and Learning & Development Officer. These experiences have given me a strong foundation in coaching, staff development, and training delivery.

I hold a Master’s degree in Strength and Conditioning and a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Coaching.

I am passionate about developing people, and ensuring teams have the skills and confidence to deliver outstanding experiences for every child.

Connor Keen
Workforce & Training Lead

Hi I’m Toni

I joined Active8 Minds in 2022, initially taking on the role of Administrator. During my time with the company, I completed my Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship and have since progressed into the Senior Management Team as the Senior Administration Coordinator.

I am passionate about working alongside the wider team, ensuring colleagues have the tools and support they need to succeed while providing customers with a smooth and efficient experience.

I joined the Active8 Minds wellbeing team in early 2026 because I am passionate about supporting colleagues and promoting a positive, healthy work environment. I take pride in being approachable and ensuring everyone feels supported.

Toni Ryan
Senior Administration Coordinator & Wellbeing Support

Hi I’m Donna

I am the Office Manager and Ofsted Lead at Active8 Minds and joined the team in September 2023, initially starting in a customer service and after school club role. I bring a strong background in education, having worked as a Learning Support Assistant for nine years at Wicor School, as well as in a special needs school, which has given me valuable experience in supporting a wide range of children.I’m passionate about creating a safe, organised, and supportive environment where both children and staff can thrive. I take pride in maintaining high standards across our provisions and enjoy supporting the team to ensure every child has a positive and enjoyable experience at club.

I love being part of a team that makes a real difference to children’s day-to-day lives. Outside of work, I’m a big Tottenham supporter, so you’ll often find me keeping up with the latest results!

Donna Jeynes
Office Manager and Ofsted Lead

Hi I’m Gabbie

Since working with children, I’ve discovered a passion for supporting their growth, confidence, and happiness. That experience has shaped the direction of my career and led me to Active8 Minds, where I have recently stepped into a creative role that allows me to turn that passion into meaningful and engaging experiences for young people.

For me, this role is more than just a job—it’s something I deeply care about. I take pride in contributing to an environment where children feel encouraged, supported, and free to be themselves. As I continue to grow within the industry, I’m excited to keep developing my creativity and making a positive difference through the work I do at Active8 Minds.

Gabbie Newing
Creative Lead

Hi I’m Alex

Before joining Active8Minds, I attended the University of Chichester four years. In that time I achieve an undergraduate in Football coaching and Performance, and an MSc in Sports and Exercise Psychology. After leaving University I joined Active8minds in 2024, as a sports coach specialist. Since then I have progressed to teaching PE at Greatham primary school, and managing after school club and holiday club provisions.In addition, I’ve recently joined the mental wellbeing team. I’m very proud to be able to support the people I work with on a day-to-day basis, and be a person that people can talk to. When I’m not working, I enjoy the running, the gym, and supporting Arsenal.

Alex Moulder
Club Manager & Wellbeing support

Hi I’m Aaron

I have been with Active8 Minds since July 2021 after doing level 3 sports coaching at Southdowns college. I joined the company as a Lead Sports Coach, coaching at our wraparound care this including managing Mill Rythe for over 4 years and managing holiday clubs.  I have since progressed into my current role in Mental Health & Wellbeing, where I also support Elliot. Where I will be responsible for supporting staff on a day to day basis and be a person someone can talk to and help Elliot plan social events and activities.One of my biggest passions is working with children and adults from different backgrounds and giving everyone an opportunity. Seeing first-hand the impact our sessions have on participants each day is definitely the most rewarding part of my work.

When I’m not working, I play football and support my team, QPR.

Aaron Marks
Club Manager & Wellbeing support