Brick Bodies CEO Vicki Brick, a founding member of the HFA’s NHFA Advisory Council, died on April 8 after a four-year battle with ovarian cancer.
“Vicki Brick was known to many in the fitness world as a shining light, not only for her remarkable achievements and courage but also for her warmth, charm, and positivity,” said Health & Fitness Association President and CEO Liz Clark.
Brick grew up in the fitness industry as the daughter of Lynne and Victor Brick, founders of Brick Bodies and owners of one of the largest Planet Fitness franchises. She followed in their footsteps to become a leader in the industry in her own right.
Starting as a personal trainer at Fitness First and then as a membership counselor at Brick Bodies, she rose through the ranks becoming CEO of Brick Bodies in 2015. Her work as a founding member of the HFA's National Health & Fitness Alliance (NHFA) further demonstrated her commitment to advancing the industry and supporting communities through health and wellness.
She attended the IHRSA Institute, and it was there that she met her husband, Evan Zupancic, who is the owner of Stafford Hills Club in Portland, Oregon. She was a loving mother to her young daughter, Jordan.
Brick was a gifted athlete, having played Division 1 basketball at the University of Maryland and then for the Sydney Flames in the WNBL in 2005 and 2006 and the Filipino National Basketball Team in 2007.
“Her athleticism mirrored her approach to life—focused, determined, and full of heart,” Clark said. “Our hearts go out to her family and friends and all who loved her.”
Fitness Formula Clubs CEO Gale Landers worked with Brick on the NHFA.
“Her passion for being of service to the fitness industry and her empathetic nature and inquisitive mind were vital to the council,” Landers said. “Our on-on-one conversations regarding advocacy for our industry will forever remain with me.”
When faced with the challenges of a Stage 3 ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2021 at the age of 40, Vicki drew upon her courage, her tenacity, and her family to tackle cancer with a fighting spirit, Clark said.
“She was a guiding light, a compassionate leader, and a cherished friend to many,” Clark said. “Her legacy will continue to inspire those of us lucky enough to have known her.”
Landers added: “I’m sure she would say today what she said to the NHFA team when informing us of her diagnosis in 2021: Keep fighting the good fight. … And we will.”
