About Me
I’m Dan Giancola
CFL Kicker Turned Coach, Author & Founder of BTO Performance
I’ve always believed greatness comes from the people who decide to be that one.
I’m a former professional football player, two-time Grey Cup champion, and lifelong athlete born and raised in Thorold, Ontario. My path to the CFL wasn’t typical — I spent more than 20 years playing soccer before taking my first football kick at 29. That late start taught me something powerful: it’s never too late to chase your potential.
During my CFL career, I played for teams like the Toronto Argonauts, BC Lions, Ottawa Renegades, Montreal Alouettes, and Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The experiences, wins, and setbacks on that field shaped who I am today — not just as an athlete, but as a person who knows what it means to push through pain, pressure, and doubt.
After hanging up my cleats, I turned my focus to helping others reach their own peak — physically and mentally. That’s how BTO Performance was born.
My Mission
At BTO Performance, my goal is simple: to help you unlock your best self.
Every session, every workout, and every conversation is built to push you forward — with intention, accountability, and a mindset that wins long after you leave the gym.
Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or someone starting their fitness journey after years away, my training philosophy stays the same: show up, give your all, and be that one who doesn’t quit.
From Athlete to Advocate
In 2020, I suffered a heart attack, and in 2022 I faced a stroke — moments that could have ended my story.
Instead, they became the reason I’m here today sharing it. Those experiences changed how I see health, recovery, and purpose. Now, I use my platform to raise awareness about heart health, mental resilience, and the importance of taking care of the body that carries you.
Beyond the Gym
I wrote my first book, Be That One: Why Does It Have To Be Someone Else, Why Not Me? — a story of perseverance, faith, and mindset — to inspire anyone who’s ever been told they’re “too late” or “not good enough.”
You can also hear me share my journey on podcasts and broadcasts like the Toronto Mike’d Podcast – Episode 1540, where I talk about my CFL days, recovery, and what drives me today.
And soon, you’ll be able to represent the message through the Be That One Apparel Line — a fitness and lifestyle brand that stands for strength, purpose, and heart.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re ready to transform — not just your body, but your mindset — I’d love to be part of your journey.
Join me at BTO Performance in Niagara, or reach out to start your personal training journey today.
Be That One. Always.
— Dan Giancola
Be That One: Why Does It Have To Be Someone Else, Why Not Me?
Be That One is the mantra of former Canadian Football League player Dan Giancola, who turned to physical fitness training following his retirement and tells his clients they can be
anything they want, no matter how big the obstacle. He developed this attitude from his own life experiences.
Dan grew up playing competitive soccer and represented Canada in National Under-16 tournaments and then shifted his focus to football in high school. Though it was all new to him, he excelled as a field goal kicker and set his sights on playing professionally one day.
But he found it tough to convince pro teams to give him a chance because he had no experience playing at the collegiate level.
He played semi-pro for free just to get some experience and notice, and over a six-year period attended a whopping 131 free agent tryouts in Canada and the U.S. with teams from