Gridiron Football
Shawn Smith serves as the Head Pickleball Pro at Life Time Inc. since May 2022, focusing on introducing the game to new players and enhancing skills for existing players through clinics and organized events. In addition, Shawn has been the Tournament Coordinator at Gridiron Football since August 2020, collaborating with NFA-trained coaches to run nationally recognized camps and tournaments, particularly emphasizing safe, non-tackle playing styles for youth aged 5–17. As the Owner of Texas Elite 7on7 since November 2012, Shawn provides non-contact 7on7 football leagues and organizes tournaments across Texas. Previous experience includes serving as President of American Flex Football from July 2017 to December 2021, where Shawn promoted a transitional football game that bridges flag and tackle football with a focus on safety. Additionally, Shawn worked as a Senior Account Executive at Adams Moncrief Transports from 2006 to July 2014, specializing in freight movement throughout the United States. Shawn's educational background includes studies at East Mississippi Community College and Dallas College North Lake Campus.
Gridiron Football
After finishing a rewarding NFL career, Joey LaRocque embarked on an ambitious plan: reimagine youth non-contact football for boys and girls. His vision encompassed use of technology and other resources to provide a next generation experience for players, parents and coaches. Since then, the Gridiron Football Team has designed multiple formats of game play and skills development for boys and girls ages 5 to 17, including Flex Football which replicates the safe, low contact and high speed experience used by all NFL teams for in-season practice. Whether you’re joining Gridiron for a safe, fun and fast Recreational Flag game, playing with your team in a Competitive Flag, competing in the 7-on-7 experience, or putting in the work in a fast-paced Flex Football game, we guarantee a great game day experience. Today, Gridiron is the fastest growing non-contact youth football league on the planet and is now operating leagues over 25 states. Our mission is to set the highest standard in youth sports for our communities, empowering each child in our program to become the best athlete, teammate, and person on and off the field. We take a hands-on approach in providing a fun and safe environment for every family, with the goal of creating memories that last a lifetime.