WATERVILLE — The Alfond Youth & Community Center is thrilled to welcome “American Ninja Warrior” Jesse Labreck to the team as the NinjAdventure zone manager and head coach.
Labreck is one of the most decorated women in “American Ninja Warrior” history, the popular obstacle course show that premiered on NBC in 2009. She has completed the course 10 times across qualifiers, semifinals, and Vegas Finals, hitting more buzzers than any other woman. Labreck was the first female to qualify for the national finals in her rookie year and has since qualified for the final round in Las Vegas six times.
Perhaps her most impressive buzzer was earned by winning Season 2 of the women’s championship. Labreck was also the only female captain among the 32 teams on Ninja vs. Ninja, where she led her team to win the championship.
“We are SO excited to welcome Jesse to the AYCC team,” said Kate Roy, senior director of Healthy Living Programs. “In addition to her incredible success in Ninja competitions, Jesse is an experienced professional and an inspirational coach. She is the absolute best person for this role.”
“Flex Labreck” is known for her strength, tenacity and love of the sport, inspiring ninjas of all ages. She and fellow Ninja Warrior Mike Silenzi co-authored “Hit the Buzzer: I Can Be an Ultimate Ninja”, a children’s book released in April 2024 that teaches goal-setting and achievement through determination.
In addition to competing, Labreck has coached and operated Ultimate Ninjas in Naperville, Illinois, for the past seven years.
Labreck is from Oakland and attended Messalonskee High School. She earned a full scholarship to the University of Maine for track & field, where she earned a degree in elementary education and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame. She still holds five high school records and nine collegiate records.
“I couldn’t be more excited to bring Ninja to my hometown, especially to the AYCC, where I have so many fond memories — from taking swim lessons and celebrating my 8th grade graduation to rock climbing,” said Labreck. “Coaching is my passion, and I’m thrilled to create a space where kids (and adults) can build confidence, gain strength, and conquer obstacles they never thought possible!”
AYCC Ninja classes for kids aged six and older begin March 4. Learn more by visiting our website: https://www.clubaycc.org/ninjadventure-zone/.
