PLAYERS TO WATCH

We interviewed the head coaches in the Northern Conference to let us know who to keep an eye on this Season.

Orlando Aces

Rising Stars:

1. Janine Nicole – This former collegiate track star brings her speed and explosive strength to the Grid.
2. Ryan DeMattie – Under the mentorship of last year’s Strength Specialist of the Year, Nate Janzen, DeMattie’s strength, agility, and explosive power make him perfect for Grid.
3. Kayla Hollings – Strong, versatile, and experienced in high-level competition, Hollings is set to shine in her debut season.
4. Cristhian Alvarez – Hailing all the way from Colombia, this high-level gymnast is one to watch this season.

Veterans to Watch:

1. Nate Janzen – The reigning Strength Specialist of the Year is anticipated to continue his stellar performance.
2. David Blatt – Known for his high-level gymnastics skills, Blatt is expected to be more comfortable and fluid on the grid this year.
3. Olivia Scott – Entering her third season with the Aces, Scott’s improved capacity and strength make her a key player for each race.
4. Janet Durant – Known as the bodyweight queen, Durant is expected to make a significant impact this season with her improved strength and confidence.

Gainesville Wild

Rising Stars:

1. Yana Babbitt – With a challenging past and a triumphant present, Babbitt is a resilient athlete who will inspire many on and off the GRID.
2. Griffin Roelle – A powerful athlete and an inspiring leader, Roelle is expected to be a strength-utility specialist and an asset to the team.
3. Tyler and Carrie Billington – A dynamic couple known for their uplifting nature and inspirational performances.
4. Dee McGillivray – A strong, innovative leader on the GRID floor, Dee’s strength and psychology are highly anticipated.
5. Amanda Fischer – A phenomenal athlete, Fischer is expected to set new records this season while always wearing a heartwarming smile.

Veterans to Watch:

1. Patrick (Pat) Long – After skipping a season to train, Pat has become one of the strongest utility players in the league. His stealthy prowess on the GRID is something to look out for.
2. Justin and Meg Adams – This power couple are the heart of the team and are expected to bring both athletic skills and character attributes to the table.

Tampa Bay Brigade

Rising Star:

1. Sidney Wilson – With next-level strength, Wilson is tipped to be one of the top utility players in the league this season.

Veterans to Watch:

1. Dalton Herrero – The Brigade’s team MVP from last season, Herrero is expected to continue his impressive performance and prove that his successful rookie year was not a fluke.
2. Aaron Medina – Known for his passion and commitment, Medina is one of the most driven players on the team. His dedication to the game and the team’s success is commendable.

SWFL Sharks

Rising Stars:

1. Chelsea Raineri – Standing at just 4’10”, this former college gymnast will be showcasing her skills across a range of movements this season.
2. Jodi Kennedy – A strongwoman competitor, Kennedy is expected to make lifting look easy.

Veterans to Watch:

1. Valerie Gunning – Now in her 3rd year, Gunning’s versatility and exceptional handstand walking ability make her a strong MVP candidate.
2. Chawkeen Graham – Despite an injury last season, Graham, one of the league’s strongest men, is expected to be a high-level utility player.
3. Quentin Ambrioso – Recognized as one of the top gymnasts in the league, Ambrioso’s presence is always intimidating.
4. Nick Shappee – A fast squatter and all-round performer, Shapee is anticipated to clear most ladders and perform high-level gymnastics.
5. Sammy Nalley – The reigning MVP, Nalley can be relied upon for almost anything and will be a strong asset for the female side this year.

MATCH PREVIEWs

Each team selects a starting roster of 5 players per gender and up to 3 alternate players per gender. They can also designate one Wild Card (indicated in RED) which is the only Alternate player that does not permanently replace a player they enter the match for.

Finally, each team selects one Ringer Point race for each match from 4 options. There is a male and female version of this race and teams may choose either depending on which version fits their strategy. A Ringer Point performer can only compete in one ringer point per regular season.