From the Corps to the Stage: Jakub Kusiak’s Journey to Champion at the 2024 NPC WA State Open
When Jakub Kusiak stepped under the bright lights at the 2024 NPC Washington State Open, few in the crowd knew the full story behind his poised stage presence. Just moments before being crowned the Classic Physique Overall Champion, this father of three and military veteran took a quiet breath – a habit ingrained from years of service – and reflected on the journey that brought him here. In that journey lies a story of discipline forged in the U.S. Marine Corps, resilience sharpened as a U.S. Army officer, and an unwavering support system at home. Jakub’s rise to champion is more than a tale of muscle and might; it’s about work ethic, family, and an iron mindset driving one man to the pinnacle of Northwest bodybuilding.
Forged by Military Discipline: A Champion’s Background
Long before he donned posing trunks and a tan, Jakub Kusiak wore the uniforms of the United States Marine Corps and the Army. A USMC veteran turned Army logistics officer, Jakub credits his military background for instilling the discipline and work ethic that have fueled his bodybuilding pursuits. Early morning training sessions before reporting for duty, meticulous meal prepping amid a hectic schedule, and the mental toughness to push through fatigue – these habits were second nature after military life. “As a Marine and now an Army officer, you learn that quitting isn’t an option,” Jakub says. “That mindset carried over to the gym. No matter how challenging prep got, I treated it like a mission – plan, execute, and overcome.”
Jakub’s “never quit” attitude was especially critical given his packed life outside of bodybuilding. In addition to his military career, he’s a devoted father. Balancing early-morning drills and late-night diaper changes might exhaust anyone else, but for Jakub it became just another part of the routine. He often jokes that 3:00 am cardio before the kids wake up is easier than wrangling toddlers at 3:00 pm. In truth, his family has been his rock. “I don’t do this alone,” he emphasizes. “My wife and kids are in this with me – from helping prep meals to cheering at contests. Their support gives me strength on my hardest days.” It’s clear that while the military gave Jakub discipline, his family gives him purpose.
The Road to the 2024 WA State Open Title
Standing at a solid 5’10” and chiseled up to 202 lbs, Jakub entered the 2024 NPC WA State Open with quiet confidence. It wasn’t his first rodeo. He had been steadily climbing the ranks of Pacific Northwest bodybuilding for a few years, learning from each show. Jakub’s competition journey highlights a steady progression of improvement and determination:
- 2021: Debuted in Men’s Classic Physique at a regional show, the NPC Northwest Championships, gaining valuable stage experience despite not taking home a trophy.
- 2023: Earned first place in his class and won the “Hero” category (for military and first responders) at the NPC Northern Classic, showcasing the fruits of two more years of hard work. Narrowly missing the overall title that year only fueled his hunger.
- 2024: Brought his best package to date at the NPC WA State Open, where he swept the Classic Physique Class B and ultimately clinched the Overall Classic Physique Champion title – achieving a goal that once felt distant.
By the time the WA State Open rolled around in July 2024, Jakub was laser-focused. Prep for this contest had its hurdles – a demanding new Army assignment, a short relocation, and even a minor injury scare – but nothing would derail him. “This prep was different; it had its ups and its downs but we came out on top,” Jakub recalls, describing a season that tested his resolve. He often trained alone in base gyms at odd hours, squeezing in posing practice during lunch breaks. Fellow competitors noticed his intensity. One moment he’d be in the corner reviewing posing videos, and the next he’d flash a friendly smile and offer to help a first-timer with tanning glaze. Jakub’s blend of military intensity and camaraderie made him a respected figure backstage.
When he walked on stage at the Auburn Performing Arts Center that night, Jakub presented a classic physique that was the epitome of aesthetics and conditioning – broad shoulders, a tight waist, and posing routines executed with confident flair. Judges nodded in approval as he hit his favorite pose, the classic hands-over-head abdominal shot, showing off deeply etched abs and serratus. By the end of the night, Jakub not only won Classic Physique Open Class B but also defeated the other class winners to seize the Overall Classic Physique championship. In that victorious moment, under the roar of the crowd, he felt a wave of gratitude. “Thankful for this experience and being crowned the WA State Open Classic Physique Overall Champion,” he wrote shortly after. It was a triumph years in the making.
Champion Mindset: Perseverance, Grit, and Family Support
What exactly does it take to rise from novice to overall champion in just a few years? Jakub believes it boils down to mindset and support. “Persevere in tough times – it builds character and makes you better,” he says, reflecting on the grind of contest prep. There were mornings his alarm rang at 4:00 am after only a few hours of sleep, when his body ached from yesterday’s workout and the temptation to hit snooze was strong. Instead, he’d visualize the end goal – stepping on that stage at his best – and would push himself out of bed. “The military taught me to embrace the suck,” he laughs, using a military slang for enduring hardship. “So when prep got hard – low carbs, long cardio, posing fatigue – I reminded myself that I’ve been through worse in the service. No way I’m giving up on a hobby I love when I never quit things that truly mattered.”
Jakub’s grit is impressive, but even he admits that no one succeeds alone. His voice warms when talking about his family’s role in his journey. Late-night meal prep is a family affair in the Kusiak household – his wife often helping grill chicken and measure oats while their kids cheer on “Daddy’s muscles.” During peak week, when energy and patience run low, Jakub’s family steps up the encouragement. They’ve made signs, sent video messages when he’s traveling for duty, and celebrated every small victory along the way. “When I’m on stage, I’m not just up there for me,” Jakub says. “I’m up there for them – to make my family proud, to show my kids what dedication looks like.” It’s this powerful why that keeps him grounded and motivated. In turn, Jakub hopes to inspire others in the community to find their own why – whether it’s family, personal growth, or something else – because that passion will drive them through the inevitable tough days.
An Experience to Remember at the WA State Open
Jakub can’t say enough about the NPC WA State Open itself. “What a show – the energy was off the charts!” he recalls. Held at the Auburn Performing Arts Center, the WA State Open is not just a competition but a full fitness expo and community event, drawing fans and athletes from all over the Pacific Northwest. For Jakub, a highlight was the camaraderie: “Backstage I met so many great competitors. We had first-time teens pumping up next to masters competitors in their 50s – all encouraging each other. That’s the spirit of this sport.” As the night show kicked off, pyrotechnics and pumping music made the stage feel like the Olympia, and the audience (including Jakub’s own family in the front row) made sure every athlete felt like a superstar.
Jakub’s overall win earned him a qualified spot at the national level, but it also meant something special at home – a huge championship sword trophy now hangs on the living room wall (much to his kids’ delight). “It’s a reminder that anything is possible with hard work,” he says. The WA State Open experience lit a fire in him, and even as military duties call (he will be relocating with the Army this year), he’s already thinking about when he can step on stage again. “Whether it’s next year or the year after, I’ll be back,” Jakub promises. “Once you get a taste of that stage and the family we have in Northwest bodybuilding, you always come back.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Competitors
Jakub Kusiak’s story is resonating with many in the Pacific NW fitness community. Here is a guy who juggles service to country, fatherhood, and the demands of elite bodybuilding – and does it with humility and passion. His message to anyone considering competition is simple: just start, and don’t quit. “I remember being the newbie, not sure if I belonged up there,” Jakub shares. “But every champion starts somewhere. If you’re on the fence, take that leap. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.” He advocates embracing the process – the early mornings, the strict diet, the posing practice – as it will teach discipline and self-confidence that carry into all aspects of life. Jakub also encourages connecting with the community: “I learned so much from fellow competitors and coaches. We might battle on stage, but off stage we’re all pushing each other to be better.” That supportive community, along with mentors he found through NW Fitness Magazine resources and local gyms, helped accelerate his growth.
As the 2025 season approaches, Jakub won’t be defending his state title on stage (duty calls with a new military assignment), but he will be there in spirit – cheering on friends and maybe even coaching a few up-and-comers. “I want to give back,” he says. “So many people helped me along the way. If my journey can inspire even one person to compete or not give up on their goals, that means the world to me.” Jakub’s story indeed serves as a beacon to current and future competitors: with discipline, heart, and support, you can turn ambitious dreams into reality.
The NPC WA State Open: Join the Premier NW Bodybuilding Event
Jakub’s success shines a spotlight on the NPC WA State Open – a premier event that continues to grow as a must-do contest for Northwest athletes. Are you feeling inspired to step on stage like Jakub? Now is the time to take action. The 2025 NPC Washington State Open is set for July 19, 2025, in Auburn, WA, and it promises to be an even bigger spectacle. Join us for the ultimate showcase of physique perfection and athletic prowess. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or this will be your very first show, the WA State Open offers an unforgettable experience in an electrifying atmosphere. It’s not just about competition – it’s about community, personal growth, and celebrating fitness at the highest level.
Athlete registration is now open: secure your spot to compete among the Northwest’s best and start your own journey to glory. Every registration comes with a competitor t-shirt, swag bag, and a chance to be part of the legacy. Tickets are on sale for spectators as well – family, friends, and fans won’t want to miss the thrill of seeing champions made in real-time. The event features a full-day expo, vendor booths, fitness demos, and of course all the exciting divisions from Bodybuilding and Classic Physique to Bikini and Wellness. Come be a part of the hype that Jakub described – feel the energy, get inspired, and maybe even catch a glimpse of past champions like Jakub Kusiak in attendance.
Visit the official NPC WA State Open website or NW Fitness Magazine for athlete registration and ticket purchase details. This is your opportunity to experience a premier NPC event that has launched careers and created lasting memories. Jakub found his passion and purpose on that stage – now it’s your turn. Don’t just witness greatness, become a part of it at the WA State Open!
NW Fitness Magazine is proud to present this exclusive story of Jakub Kusiak – a true embodiment of dedication. For more inspiring competitor features and expert bodybuilding guidance, subscribe to NW Fitness Magazine’s newsletter and follow us on social media.
💪🇺🇸 #ChampionMindset #NPCWAStateOpen #JakubKusiak #ClassicPhysique
Jakub Kusiak strikes a commanding front double biceps pose, holding the Overall Classic Physique Champion sword at the 2024 NPC WA State Open. This moment represents years of discipline, sacrifice, and unshakable determination.
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