Sharks claim second straight United Grid League title

The Southwest Florida Sharks captured their second consecutive United Grid League championship last month in Lakeland.

Sedona Townsend, a 27-year-old St. Petersburg resident and physical therapist, competed in the final match as part of the winning roster. This victory marked the fourth season for Townsend in the sport.

The United Grid League operates as a coed team competition combining functional fitness and weightlifting. Teams face off in head-to-head races that include deadlifts, bench presses, handstand walking, and backflips. Each match consists of 11 distinct events, and athletes are categorized into utility, bodyweight, or strength roles.

Townsend serves as a utility player for the Sharks, focusing on functional activities such as box jumps, burpees, and pull-ups. She was not actively seeking a professional career in this specific league. Instead, she was recruited by a coach after performing well in a local competition, having previously trained in CrossFit for several years.

Townsend described the Grid League as a true team sport, contrasting it with the more individualized nature of CrossFit gyms. The Sharks maintain a full roster with a coach and manager, where each member holds a specific position. The team communicates through group chats and Zoom meetings to prepare for matches.

The back-to-back titles reflect consistent performance from the SW Florida Sharks. Townsend noted that the victories mean a great deal to the group, citing the commitment athletes make to one another outside of daily life. She added that the experience allows for new friendships and memories while traveling for competitions.

Townsend stated that her primary goal is to have fun, which has kept her in the sport. She expressed a personal dream of winning a third consecutive championship for the team.