Lenexa Families Rally Around New Youth Sports Facility
Lenexa, a vibrant city nestled in Johnson County, is set to welcome a very special development that will mean a lot to local families and the community at large. The Piotrowski family is currently hard at work transforming an old office building at the corner of West 108th Street and Pflumm Road into a brand new youth sports facility, aptly named No Limit Performance KC. However, what makes this project truly unique is the heartfelt story behind it.
A Tribute to Olivia
The inspiration for this facility arose from a painful loss. Andrew Piotrowski, a father and driven entrepreneur, shared his tragic experience: “We always wanted to do something special after our daughter’s passing but we never really knew what that was gonna look like.” In September 2021, Andrew’s daughter, Olivia, tragically passed away from fentanyl poisoning just a month after celebrating her 18th birthday.
Olivia was a bright light in the lives of those around her. As a cross country and track runner at Shawnee Mission East, she was known for her vibrant personality and fun-loving spirit. “She was a fashionable kid…the life of everybody. Everybody always says she did everything to make people laugh. There was never a bad story about Olivia,” Andrew recalled, tears glistening in his eyes as he spoke about her. Losing Olivia was a devastating experience for her family, and it has shaped their outlook on community engagement, particularly regarding the dangers of drugs.
A Safe Space for the Youth
This new sports facility, which will cover 2,600 square feet, aims to provide more than just a place for athletes to train. Andrew emphasized that the center will focus on education, “We want to educate parents who bring their families to the facility about how deadly the drug can be and the gateways that exist.” By promoting awareness about fentanyl and its tragic implications, the Piotrowskis hope to make a difference and prevent families from suffering as they did.
“It’s crazy where we are nowadays and how it just kind of ripped through communities across the U.S… close to home for us. It was a 100% shock. Never expected to be in the position we are now,” he added, reflecting on his family’s journey and how the community has been affected.
Creating a Legacy
With the facility, Olivia’s family is working to create something tangible that honors her memory. “If we had a place for her, maybe she could have directed some of her extra time and energy into something like this,” Andrew mused, dreaming of a space that fosters both sportsmanship and awareness.
The Piotrowski family is also planning to collaborate with the Lenexa Police Department to host fentanyl awareness events at the facility. Andrew believes this initiative will help people in the community learn about Olivia’s story and the risks associated with this deadly drug. “They can learn about her, learn about the dangers of fentanyl,” he said, emphasizing the importance of education in saving lives.
Grand Opening and Memorial
As they continue their renovations, the family is hopeful to open No Limit Performance KC before the end of the year. They plan to hold Olivia’s annual memorial during the grand opening, a poignant tribute that connects her legacy with the broader mission of the facility.
The Piotrowskis are excited for this opportunity to create a nurturing environment for youth, one that not only focuses on fitness but also emphasizes the importance of awareness and education surrounding drug use. It’s a story of resilience, hope, and love—a true testament to the spirit of Lenexa.
As the community looks forward to this new chapter, the Piotrowski family serves as a reminder that even after loss, there are ways to heal and make a positive impact.
