We are about a month away from our one year anniversary and we have been forced to lock the doors to these amazing athletes due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. For many of these athletes, this is their outlet. Lions United is the one place where our athletes can come and actually be themselves. This is a place where they can grow, a place they can socialize, a place where they can learn, and a place where they can ROAR! Outside of Lions United, these brave athletes may be wearing many different labels because of the way they walk, talk, and act, but a Lions United, each and every PERSON that comes through the door is treated like a professional athlete. Disabilities are left at the door. They simply do not exist here. We aren’t a playground or some day program that just goes through the motions. We are a place where individuals come to get better. Period! We are preparing our Lions for battle. We are much more than the eyes may see though. At Lions United your eyes may just see equipment all over the place, but we are so much more than a gym. Andrew Cameron, Lions United Founder and Head Coach has a philosophy that the life inside of a gym can dramatically improve the life outside of the gym. From the many different training programs that Coach Andy offers, it doesn’t stop there. Motivation, encouragement, leadership, courage, following directions, sportsmanship, gratitude, and confidence are just a few traits that Coach Andy passes off to his Lions. Lions United serves the top 1% of adaptive athletes in Minnesota. The athletes that come here want to be the best version of themselves and Coach Andy is determined to make that happen. Coach says, “it’s all about making a connection. A lot of these athletes just need someone who cares and doesn’t just see a disability. Once a connection is made, and you add a little bit of love, we can do anything.” But Lions United needs your help. Although we specialize in working with adaptive athletes, we have the rest of the Lions United community who are unable to come here as well. Memberships have been frozen and our non special needs members make up for a lot of the income that keep the doors open here. With no revenue coming in, we fear that Lions United is in high risk. Our Lions used to be discriminated against and judged wherever they would go. Lions United is the one place where they feel comfortable and can ROAR like the champions they are! We hope that you can find it in your big hearts that Minnesotans have, to show some support and help us through this sticky situation. Thank you so much and we hope everyone is staying healthy. Meet Coach Andy!

I love the atmosphere at Lions United Fitness Center! Every time I walk in, I feel a sense of community and support that makes my day better. I love working out in a space that’s truly inclusive, and that celebrates health and well-being for absolutely everyone. Unlike some other spaces, Lions United really focuses on building strength and relationships. Plus, the facility is brand new, and equipped for all types of training and workouts. The best part of Lions United? Everyone is having fun while they work out! I love hearing other athletes celebrate when they reach a goal or hit a milestone. It inspires me to continue to work hard and celebrate my successes, too!

Emily Gebauer

Minnesota