Liz Freel
Founder
February 21, 1975 - April 6, 2024

​Liz wasn't just the driving force behind our organization; she was a beacon of hope, a testament to the transformative power of grit.
Liz's story began with her own relentless dedication. Having battled anorexia, she emerged stronger. At 26, she transitioned to coaching, igniting a passion for empowering others. Through powerlifting, she witnessed firsthand how personal motivation could spark incredible change in individuals facing immense challenges. Competition wasn't Liz's focus; it was about unlocking potential and saving lives. Even after a cancer diagnosis eight years ago, Liz never stopped fighting.
Many of you know how deeply powerlifting can impact someone's life. Liz understood this power intimately. She wasn't just generous; she possessed an uncanny ability to see potential within each athlete and nurture it. Her resilient spirit was a unique blend of fierce encouragement and unwavering respect – respect for yourself and the immense strength you hold within.
Liz's legacy lives on in the work we continue. 

Liz Freel at Metroflex Gym

“It’s much more than competing, it’s a lifestyle, we’re all family. If you can get someone off the street, and show them a different way of life, you’ve saved a life.” ​

Team Freel

To know Liz was to know strength - mental, physical, and emotional. Her loud voice echoed in every training session and every meet, but once you spoke with her, her soft voice comforted every fear. She knew how to crack the whip and kept a strict disciplined team. She pushed each athlete with tough love and a compassionate heart. She began Team Freel at her home gym, Metroflex in 2013. She adopted countless "kids" at meets, and picked up "kids" along the way. Powerlifting saved her life while she battled an eating disorder, and made it her mission to show a different way of life to those battling their own demons - whether addiction, mental health crises, or financial hardship. Liz wove a thick fabric of that kept all of Team Freel together; she was a mother to many and a beloved champion to all. 

A lifelong competitor, Liz achieved numerous accolades and set multiple all-time world records.

After being diagnosed with cancer, Liz went on to deadlift 501lbs at the first annual Liz Freel Classic.

Liz and her team through the years.

Past and present Team Freel gathered together to celebrate Liz's life and legacy on April 20, 2024 at the annual Liz Freel Classic.

Liz will continue to watch over "her kids."