DUNMORE, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)- American Ninja Warrior returns tonight on WBRE, but did you know that the next generation of ninja warriors are training right here in northeastern Pennsylvania?
To be a ninja warrior, you have to jump through hoops, learn to crawl again, and watch your step.
At United Sports Academy in Dunmore, these skills and more are passed on to students as they get fit and have fun too!
About one hundred students are part of the ninja challenge, a program that has put kids back in the gym. How far you complete the court determines your level, but that’s not the end all be all.
“We just want to keep them focused on improving themselves than competing with others,” says Emilia Raynova, the head coach.
For reference, we had ninja pros Joel and Maura try the obstacles, and our Eyewitness News Reporter Dave Caulfield gave it a try!
It’s a lot harder than it works, especially on the cargo net. Coach Matt Pelucacci says to have fun while failing.
“You learn most when you fall,” says Pelucacci. “You learn how to get back up, humility, and you learn to deal with challenges.”
But most importantly, get back up and keep trying. A valuable lesson for any ninja warrior hopeful.
United Sports Academy starts ninja training at four years old and ends at 18.
