A Champion Walks Among Us

A champion. British-American author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek once described a champion, saying: “Champions are not the ones who always win races - champions are the ones who get out there and try. And try harder the next time. And even harder the next time. ‘Champion’ is a state of mind. They are devoted. They compete to best themselves as much if not more than they compete to best others. Champions are not just athletes.” 

Inside Escapology HQ, we have our own champion among us. Whether in the office, on a football field, or in life, our Project Manager Kaylissa Mackey is a true champion. But outside of any kind of emotions or likely cheesy statements I could make, Kaylissa legitimately is a champion. Not many of our escapologists know that when “Kay” isn’t helping create new experiences or spear heading location builds, she’s a member of the Orlando Anarchy, a women’s American Football team. On July 27, 2018 the Orlando Anarchy defeated the Arkansas Wildcats to become WFA Division III National Champions. Being in the office every day and seeing Kay come into work with bruises and an ever-expanding injury portfolio, finally witnessing her achieve such a goal and win a championship with her team is truly a source of inspiration and I can’t even express how proud we all are in words.

I asked Kaylissa what winning the championship meant to her, and here’s what she had to say: “Winning the National Championship was incredible! Holding the trophy high has been our focus for the past two years. It wasn't an easy road with everything we have been dealt. We fought hard and found a way to overcome all the adversity. I am blessed to be a part of this team, organization, and most importantly, this family!”

Kaylissa mentions family in her statement above, and family is truly what she has on her team. Back in March, we held an event at Escapology Orlando to benefit the team, and with the team in attendance, you could truly see the bond between these ladies. A bond that placed them at the top of the mountain in their league. A placement they have earned. A placement they truly deserve.

From all of us at Escapology, we cannot possibly be any more proud of Kaylissa and the Orlando Anarchy. I think I speak for everyone when I say that we are honored to have Kay as a member of OUR family, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her. 

Written by: Eric Child

Photos by: Leah Marie Photography