The Fort Lauderdale Lions Announce New Ownership Heading Into the 2026 Season
The Fort Lauderdale Lions are entering 2026 with a new ownership group and a new head coach who has spent about a decade living and breathing this sport.
Paul Moran steps into the role of Head Coach and Owner after being a long time Lion as a player. Paul brings a hands-on approach to everything he does with the Lions. Not only is he competing alongside his teammates, he also runs training sessions, calls strategies, manages substitutions, and keeps the team’s finances on track. He is joined on the coaching staff by assistant coach Alex Velez.
Moran doesn’t need much convincing when it comes to why Grid keeps pulling him back.Â
“The camaraderie and intensity of Grid is unmatched. It creates an energy that is fueled by adrenaline. For me, this creates an insatiable hunger. After every match I’m more motivated than ever.”
Melissa Capurro joins as Co-Owner and serves as the team’s physical therapist. Her story with Grid started in 2021 when she watched her first match and couldn’t look away. She connected with Taylar Stallings, owner and head coach of the Orlando Aces at the time, and over the next three seasons grew from first-time sponsor to full-time team physical therapist. Her contribution grew every year.
Now, with the Aces having merged with the Lions, that investment has come full circle.
“I found the sport of grid in 2021 and after watching it for the first time, I knew I had to be involved somehow. It fascinated me and kept me on the edge of my seat all at once. Becoming an owner of the Fort Lauderdale Lions truly brings tears to my eyes. Not only am I helping to grow the league of a sport that I love, but I am a leader of a family that has developed an inseparable bond, dating back to the years that I started with the Orlando Aces in 2021. Now that the Aces have merged with the Lions, we are unified as one unstoppable force!”
Arcangel “Archie” Andrade, is Co-Owner, marketing lead, merchandise, sponsorship, content creator, and active player.Â
“Playing the roles behind the scenes that can help the team grow and become a brand, one that helps the athletes enjoy their sport without stressing out about the expenses of it, that motivates me a lot. After many years playing team sports and seeing opportunities to make things better without having a voice in the decision making, this is the perfect opportunity to be part of a major change. And I feel more committed to lead by example on the Grid as well.”
Eric Cardona rounds out the ownership group, bringing his experience as a long time bodyweight specialist and co-owner as the Lions set their sights on 2026.
Up Next For The Lions
The Lions kick off the 2026 season on May 23rd in Miami against the Tampa Bay Brigade at the Miami Dade County Fair and Exposition. Their first match is the perfect stage for this group to show the league what new leadership looks like on the Grid. Come see it in person.
Interested in joining the Lions as a player or sponsor? Reach out at fortlauderdalelions@gmail.com or follow the team on Instagram at @fortlauderdalelions.
Have a question? Email us: staff@unitedgridleague.com
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