WINTER GARDEN, FLA – It’s a cycle that repeats itself every hour. Tired, exhausted bodies leave CrossFit Winter Garden ready to sleep while a new wave comes in wondering what new workout Lee Lovette has created.

The owner is known for his insane WODs (workout of the day) and is booming voice. He runs the show most nights of the week. On this Wednesday around 6:30 p.m, he is no longer the star.

““If she doesn’t know you she’ll walk up and introduce herself. ‘Hey I’m Michelle,’” Lovette said. “She doesn’t say I’m a state champion. I’m a regional champion and I’m a soon to be national champion powerlifter. It’s hey I’m Michelle and I’m a Crossfitter.”

Some call her the mayor. Others say she’s the queen bee. Whatever nickname suits, just know Michelle Stevens is in the building.

“I’m pumped. I’m motivated. I want to keep going.”

Don’t let the big smile and trademark pigtails fool you. Once that timer starts, Michelle is ready to work.

Michelle is a woman who has autism. She’s been coming to CrossFit Winter Garden since the beginning of Wolfpack Powerlifting. It’s a team made up by Special Olympics athletes.  Not only is she an original member, she might be the most accomplished.

With several gold medals, state championships and ribbons on her resume, Michelle’s reputation and talent earned her a spot on Team Florida for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games.

“I almost cried. I didn’t cry because I was like shocked,” Michelle said. “I never thought I’d be going to USA Games for powerlifting.”

Never is a word she’s heard far too often. It’s also part of her motivation to break and disprove stereotypes.

“Why don’t you come watch me do it? You can see how I do it. You can feel more confident in yourself and you cannot say women can’t lift weights or special Olympic athletes can’t do this or that.”

If you showed up on this particular January Wednesday, Michelle has no problem proving what she can do. With all eyes on her, she gracefully deadlifts 215 lbs. It’s just shy of her personal best.

The only thing she does better than move weights is lead the movement to change perceptions.

“I’ve shown other women they can come compete at competitions and it feels really good to be the leader of the pack.”