(New Castle, PA), March 20th, 2024 - GRIT Sports Performance a leader in science-based sports performance and wellness, is excited to announce the launch of its pioneering NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) program for area high school athletes. This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in the region, is set to elevate the futures of young athletes through comprehensive support, including access to the recently launched state-of-the-art facilities at GSP Labs located in New Castle, PA.
The 2024 inaugural class features an exceptional group of area student-athletes from Mercer, Lawrence and Beaver Counties, selected for bringing a unique blend of athletic prowess and academic excellence to the forefront as well as an embodiment of the GRIT mindset - resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence. The class includes:
Addyson Frye, a junior softball pitching phenomenon from New Castle, PA, is noted for her stellar performances, including 1st team All-State honors, and maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Addy’s future shines bright with a commitment to Providence College.
Brody McQuiston, a senior multi-sport star from New Castle, PA, excels in basketball and track & field. Brody boasts first-team all-conference and all-section distinctions, with exemplary school attendance and citizenship recognition, complementing his academic achievements while continuing to garner Division II and National Prep School interest.
Christian Lucarelli, a junior ace pitcher from Ellwood City, PA, is celebrated as the Beaver County Times Player of the Year and a Max Preps All National Team honoree, boasting a stellar 4.1 GPA. Christian’s commitment to Duke University speaks to his dual excellence in athletics and academics.
Louie Gill, a senior from Hermitage, PA, is a distinguished wrestler with a State Championship title and the experience of being a 2x state finalist. Louie’s dedication and skill in wrestling have ranked him among the top 10 nationally, leading to his commitment to continue his athletic career next season at NC State.
Lilyana Palko, a junior dual-sport athlete from Transfer, PA, has been recognized as an All-State first-teamer and a standout USA National Selection performer, while also excelling academically with multiple honor roll distinctions. Lily has also secured her spot with a commitment to the University of Michigan's softball program.
Ralph E. Blundo, a junior from New Castle, PA, draws regional attention on the basketball court with All-Conference accolades. Also, as member of the National Honor Society, Ralphie excels in both the classroom and on the court, gearing up to captain his team in the upcoming senior season.
AnnaSophia Viccari, a sophomore from West Middlesex, PA, has blazed trails in cross country and track, earning Top 10 and Top 5 state finishes as well as the title of USA Today Northwest Pennsylvania Sports Awards Female XC Runner of the Year. AnnaSophia not only excels academically, consistently making the principal's list, but she also shines as the lead in her school's musical productions.
Victoria Harvey, a freshman from New Castle, PA, shines as a multi-talented athlete in basketball and volleyball. Her impressive performances have already attracted Division I interest and secured a basketball offer from Slippery Rock University. With a strong 3.4 GPA, Tori is a student-athlete who excels both on the court and in the classroom.
Paul Fair, Founder of GRIT Sports Performance, expressed his enthusiasm about the program, “This is a milestone moment for both GRIT Sports Performance and our athletes. With the launch of our NIL program, we open an exciting new chapter, setting our brand and our athletes on a path of growth and achievement. Supporting these talented young athletes on their journey to success will be incredibly rewarding."
The GRIT NIL Program is designed to foster athletic excellence and personal growth. Participants will gain access to GSP Labs' facilities and resources focusing on Growth, Recovery, and Innovative Training, alongside mentorship from industry leaders. Additionally, these athletes will have the opportunity to share their GSP Labs experiences and journey in their own voice, offering an authentic perspective of their development.
The program represents a significant step forward for local high school athletes, who only just recently have been able to leverage Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities. Through NIL, GRIT aims to be an invaluable resource for athletes to help prepare them for success both on the field and in life, laying the foundation for them to further leverage NIL at the college level.
For more information about the GRIT NIL Program and GRIT Sports Performance, please visit www.gritsportsperformance.com or contact us at info@gritsportsperformance.com.
Contact:
Paul Fair, Founder - GRIT Sports Performance
paul@gritsportsperformance.com
(412) 219-3497
About GRIT Sports Performance: GRIT Sports Performance is a premier sports performance and wellness company committed to unlocking the full athletic potential of athletes, teams, and individuals through science-based methodologies and modalities. With Growth, Recovery, and Innovative Training defining our core, GRIT offers access to a comprehensive range of cutting-edge services and resources that are usually only available to top college and professional teams. These resources can be accessed through our GSP Labs, and soon, aboard the GSP Rover.
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