Our Story

I am often asked why I built the training center and created Great Lakes Wrestling, which always makes me reflect on how it all began.

For 15 years, marathons and triathlons, including seven Boston Marathons (my favorite race) and the IRONMAN World Championship, were a huge part of my life. During that time, I was first and foremost a mom. Through years of coaching and volunteering, I witnessed the profound impact sports can have on character development. As I hung up my racing career and my kids entered college, I found myself asking, what’s next?

Wrestling, particularly, captivated me. Having watched my son wrestle for many years, I saw how the sport instills athletic ability, mental and emotional resilience, discipline, and accountability—qualities vital both on the mat and in everyday life. I truly fell in love with the sport.

A Focus on Girls' Wrestling

While Great Lakes Wrestling is a co-ed program, I am a strong advocate for girls in sports, and it was crucial for me to emphasize supporting and growing girls' wrestling. Despite being the fastest-growing high school sport in the nation, there are few facilities dedicated to supporting female wrestlers. My goal was to create a safe and supportive environment where girls could build technical skills, find community, and gain the confidence needed to succeed at higher levels. As a female-owned business, it is also important to show girls that strength—both physical and mental—is something to be proud of.

A Lifelong Fitness Journey

I also recognize that health and fitness is a lifelong journey. The Great Lakes Training Center is dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages—from youth to adults—in their pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

Our slogan, Homegrown, perfectly reflects the core values I cherish: community, belonging, and remembering our roots and those who have supported us along the way.

Thank you for reading our story. I truly hope you join us and create yours.

Lisa Altman, Founder and Operator