CONFIDENCE STARTS WITH OPPORTUNITY
We support youth through mentorship, movement, and programs that foster confidence, discipline, and belonging.
The Sharks FinsUp Foundation was created by the athletes and leadership of the Florida Sharks — a United Grid League team known for its culture of strength, unity, and purpose.
We started this foundation to carry that same culture beyond the GRID and into our communities, helping young people discover the kind of strength that lasts long after the game ends.
Our athletes come from all backgrounds — NCAA gymnasts, CrossFit Games, Ironman finishers, and Olympic weightlifters who found purpose in movement.
Together, they show that strength has no single look or size. It’s a mindset, one that builds confidence, resilience, and pride.
We support youth development through sport-based programs that build confidence, improve mental wellness, and promote healthy lifestyles. Each initiative is designed to strengthen both character and community.
Our athletes lead from the front, using their stories of grit and purpose to inspire the next generation. From gymnasts to lifters, they prove that strength has no single look or size.
We draw from respected youth development frameworks like the PLAAY program to reinforce healthy emotional responses, build coping skills, and help young people channel their energy into positive decision-making.
FLAGSHIP PROGRAMS
Race Day with Sharks is a hands-on, school-based program where Florida Sharks athletes take over a physical education class and turn it into a co-ed team race experience.
Boys and girls compete together on the same team through fast-paced relay-style races inspired by the United Grid League format. The program combines movement, teamwork, competition, and mentorship to build confidence, respect, and collaboration.
Made for This supports youth female sports clubs and women-led groups by creating shared experiences with the Lady Sharks. Clubs engage in movement, mentorship, and open conversation centered on strength, confidence, and identity.
The program focuses on helping young female athletes embrace being strong, build community, and grow together through sport.
GROUNDED IN EVIDENCE
Dr. Howard C. Stevenson’s, PLAAY: Preventing Long-term Anger and Aggression in Youth
Our programs integrate the PLAAY framework, a promising practice focused on de-escalation, emotional regulation, and positive engagement. Through our partnership, we apply these principles in movement-based environments to support awareness, self-control, and healthy responses under pressure.
OUR SOCIAL FOCUS AREAS
Health & Confidence
Enhancing mental wellbeing and encouraging healthy behaviour change
Girls & Female Empowerment
Promoting equality, empowering spaces where girls can train, learn, and lead
Inclusive Society
Creating communities which embrace ethnic, cultural and physical differences
Your donation helps us bring movement, mentorship, and positive role models into schools and communities. With every gift, you help a young person build confidence, discover their strength, and feel seen for who they are. Learn More
Sharks FinsUp Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please keep your receipt as your official record. We'll email it to you upon successful completion of your donation.
