Aaron Medina – Grid League Player

Aaron Medina stands out in the growing sport of Grid League, combining rare athletic abilities that make him effective across multiple disciplines. As a competitor who can seamlessly transition between heavy weightlifting and complex gymnastics movements, he has become a valuable asset in team competitions. After establishing himself with the Tampa Bay Brigade, Medina recently joined the expansion Houston Bandits, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

Medina’s time in Grid League began with the Tampa Bay Brigade during the Florida Grid League era. He contributed to multiple playoff appearances with Tampa Bay, helping the team secure two FGL championships and three Northern Conference titles. His speed and precision in crucial moments helped the Brigade maintain their status as top contenders. In team races, Medina often handled complex transitions, like a memorable handoff sequence where he caught a hang clean at full speed during an Echo race segment.

In late 2024, Medina was announced as one of the first members of the Houston Bandits, joining the league’s expansion into Texas. The Bandits highlighted his experience and versatility when introducing him as their new bodyweight specialist. While he excels in gymnastics movements, Medina brings surprising power – he can snatch over 300 pounds despite competing at a relatively light bodyweight. This combination makes him adaptable during Grid matches, able to handle both strength elements and skilled gymnastics work.

Before Grid, Medina built an impressive foundation in CrossFit. He has competed in the CrossFit Open since 2017, steadily climbing the ranks to become one of the top athletes in his region. In both 2022 and 2023, he qualified for the CrossFit Quarterfinals, placing among the top 5% of men worldwide. His best Open finish came in 2022, when he ranked in the top 8,000 globally.

Medina has also tested himself in powerlifting competition. At meets in Texas, he posted impressive numbers in the 148-pound weight class: a 402-pound squat, 265-pound bench press, and 430-pound deadlift. In July 2024, he totaled 1,096 pounds – showing remarkable strength for his size. His background as a high school wrestler likely contributed to his mix of strength and body control, skills that transfer well to Grid’s varied challenges.

Growing up in Austin, Texas, Medina learned values of service and leadership early. He earned his Eagle Scout rank at 18, completing a community project in Sunset Valley’s organic gardens. His family, including his grandmother Leticia Medina, supported his drive to achieve. At Akins High School, he competed in football and wrestling, laying the groundwork for his later athletic career.

Today, Medina shares his expertise as a coach at CrossFit Cedar Park, the gym where he still trains. He works with both group classes and individual clients, helping others improve while pursuing his own competitive goals. His involvement with the MAD Athletes program and appearances on the MADcast podcast show his commitment to the fitness community. Outside the gym, friends know him as a movie buff who brings personality to team dynamics.

Looking ahead, Medina aims to help establish the Houston Bandits as a force in Grid League. His move from an established power in Tampa Bay to a new Texas team shows his willingness to take on fresh challenges. With his unique skill set and experience, he’ll likely play a key role in the Bandits’ first season while continuing to develop as both an athlete and coach.