ABOUT ABLE

How We Got Started

Connor McGovern, Champion for ABLE™

From a small-town North Dakota boy to a prominent NFL player, Connor McGovern, New York Jets Center, and Fargo Native’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. His involvement with TNT Kid’s Fitness & ABLE™ is a testament to his commitment to giving back to the community.

Connor’s connection with TNT & ABLE™ began when Kim Pladson, TNT President and CEO and long-time family friend of Connor’s, reached out to him. TNT is a unique gymnastics and fitness center that supports children of all abilities in unlocking their potential through movement.

Promoting Inclusivity through Physical Activity

Physical activity and competition have always been defining elements of Connor’s life. Therefore, he felt a profound desire to extend this opportunity to a broader demographic.

“I couldn’t imagine a life without physical activity, so I want to make sure everybody has that opportunity,” said Connor. “The thrill of competing, working tirelessly toward a goal, and ultimately achieving it is an experience like no other.”

One of Connor’s motivations to make a difference in this space was further fueled by a personal connection to Mitch Morse, his college teammate and Buffalo Bills Center. Mitch’s brother is involved with the Special Olympics of Missouri. Connor attended a Special Olympics weightlifting competition there and witnessed an awe-inspiring moment that left a mark on him, a non-verbal participant bench-pressing an astounding 315 pounds. This encounter changed the course of his life, compelling him to explore and provide others with similar opportunities.

Kim first introduced TNT’s special needs competition to Connor, sparking a conversation that initiated the concept of the ABLE Games. This led to interest from the local public schools, who, in turn, asked TNT to develop a physical education class to allow for this opportunity year-round.

The ABLE Games continues to experience growth, and this success paved the way for an additional initiative known as ABLE in School. Several schools in North Dakota have adopted this program, which operates as a physical education credit. It pairs students with special needs and their peers in inclusive peer-to-peer workouts. Many of these students then go on to compete in the ABLE Games.

Expanding Horizons: ABLE In School and Beyond

Connor and Kim’s vision extends beyond the Midwest, as they actively work to bring the ABLE Games and ABLE In School to the East Coast and beyond. The goal is to make ABLE™ accessible to as many individuals and schools as possible, emphasizing empowerment and inclusion. 



Connor McGovern is not just an NFL football star; he’s a champion for inclusivity and empowerment. Working to leave a mark on his hometown, state, and throughout the country. 

“I don’t want to just be a football player. I want to impact people’s lives for the positive.”