Brielle Macchiarelli

From Cheerleader to Grid League Star: The Rise of Brielle Macchiarelli

Brielle “Bri” Macchiarelli embodies the diverse paths that can lead to Grid League success. The former Division 1 cheerleader has transformed into one of the sport’s most versatile athletes, bringing a unique blend of gymnastics, strength, and competitive drive to her current role with the South Beach Palms.

Her Grid League journey spans an impressive tenure, including six seasons as a cornerstone athlete for the Fort Lauderdale Lions from 2017 to 2023. Now in her second season with the South Beach Palms, Macchiarelli has become known for her mastery of specialized events, particularly excelling in “mirror” races where athletes work in perfect synchronization. Her background in cheerleading shines through in signature moves like the burpee backflip and during the back-handspring relay, where her gymnastics foundation gives her a distinct edge.

The West Virginia University alum has built upon her cheerleading background to develop into a well-rounded athlete. Over six years of competitive CrossFit have added serious strength credentials to her resume. Her numbers speak for themselves: a 285-pound back squat, 220-pound clean and jerk, 315-pound deadlift, and 175-pound snatch. These lifts, combined with quick benchmark workout times like a 4:11 Fran and 1:52 Grace, showcase her blend of strength and conditioning.

At 5’4″ and 150 pounds, Macchiarelli proves that powerful things come in compact packages. She maintains a demanding schedule, balancing her athletic pursuits with a career in selling growth prevention systems to the marine industry. She still finds time to give back to the fitness community by coaching at CrossFit So Flow.

Her training approach merges traditional CrossFit methodology with specialized preparation for Grid League’s unique demands. This dedication shows in competition, where she’s earned respect from teammates and opponents alike. Even after changing teams, she maintains strong relationships with her former Lions teammates, speaking to her character and professionalism.

Macchiarelli’s influence extends beyond competition. Her appearances on podcasts like “Plate Stack Chat” and active social media presence help grow the sport while inspiring others. She shares her journey openly across platforms, giving followers insight into the life of a Grid League athlete.

As she continues her career with the South Beach Palms, Macchiarelli represents the evolution of Grid League athletes, professionals who balance high-level competition with successful careers while contributing to their sport’s growth. Her path from college cheerleader to Grid League standout shows that athletic excellence can come from unexpected beginnings.