No Shortcuts, from Concept to Story, to Sketch, to Page, to Published Book!
Inside the Grit Pile Kidz Creative Studio
Welcome to the heart of Grit Pile Kidz, where creativity meets resilience! Our studio is where stories of grit, determination, and perseverance come to life—through books, apparel, and content designed to inspire the next generation. Every illustration, every message, and every design is crafted with purpose, reinforcing the values of hard work, passion, and mental toughness.
Step inside and see how we turn ideas into powerful tools that help kids build confidence and embrace challenges. Because at Grit Pile Kidz, we don’t just tell stories—we create a movement.
Why Athletes Support Our Mission
Athletes are at the heart of what we do, generously sharing their personal experiences and inspiring the authentic stories of Grit Pile Kidz. Through book signings, school Q&A sessions, fireside chats, and local GPK events, these incredible individuals connect with kids in meaningful ways, offering guidance and encouragement drawn from their own journeys.
As former NHL defenseman Mike Komisarek says, “I support Grit Pile Kidz because it teaches kids the importance of resilience, determination, and finding their passion. This mission is dear to my heart because I know how critical these lessons are—not just in sports but in life.”
Former NHL forward Matt Moulson adds, “I believe my story resonates with kids because it shows that the road to success isn’t always smooth or straightforward. Grit Pile Kidz allows us to share these stories so kids can see that with hard work, passion, and perseverance, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.”
By openly sharing their personal experiences, and inspiring our stories these athletes bring Grit Pile Kidz to life, demonstrating that success is built on grit, heart, and determination. We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering support—they are the backbone of our mission, inspiring kids to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.”
Who Are We
COACH PRESS (Greg Presseau)
Founder, Author
“Our goal is to teach kids a well-rounded, connected approach to life, one that strengthens both body and mind and helps them find their own way forward”, said Coach Press (Greg Presseau), Author and Founder of Grit Kore LLC. Grit is more than just a word; it’s a way of thinking and acting, a fire that fuels perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Being intrinsically gritty means staying motivated not by rewards or pressure, but by an inner drive to improve and grow. Matt Moulson’s story is a perfect example of how dedication and hard work can lead to greatness, and we believe his journey will inspire kids to stay committed to their goals, even when facing setbacks. This is about showing up daily, embracing the process, and learning to thrive through challenge.”
Next to his day job in the finance world in NYC, Coach Press has been working with athletes from age four to eighteen years old. His primary goal is to build strong, confident children by using sports as a vehicle to teach life lessons beyond the game. He believes teaching kids to be ‘gritty’ must come from the child’s own passion for an activity.
After numerous conversations with current and former professional athletes, Coach Press realized that all the athletes were incredibly resilient more than they were ‘talented’. It was through this lens that he formulated the concept of a ‘grit pile’ as a way to articulate the importance of hard work and resilience to kids.
ANIKA CHARRON,
Co-Founder, Creative and Illustrations
“We are working on a series of books as mind-body concept for kids finding balance and resilience, by showcasing people who have built their Grit Piles as a stepping stone to their success in life,” said Anika Charron, Co-Founder, Creative Lead, and Illustrator. “The concept of the Grit Pile is transferable to all aspects of life. At the core of our message is a holistic approach, developing both body and mind to live a balanced, purpose-driven life. When you focus on your passion with a strong, centered mindset, the noise and chatter around you begins to fade into the background.”
Anika has been a devoted yoga lover for decades and believes in the importance of balance between body and mind. A philosophy she brings into everything in her life. As lifelong athlete and former swimmer, Anika believes that grit and resilience are the foundation for any meaningful achievement.
She holds a Master of Science in Engineering and spent years as a fashion executive before launching a successful real estate career. Guided by curiosity, she’s embraced many passions along the way: competitive swimming, yoga, art and illustrations, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, and exploring cultures and the culinary world—but above all, motherhood to her three teenage daughters. Inspired by her own mother, who championed independence, confidence, and inner strength, Anika strives to pass those values on to her daughters and, through her illustrations, to children everywhere.
PETE COLLINS,
Communications and PR
“With Grit Pile Kidz, we are aiming to help young people identify their passion and build belief in themselves,” said Pete Collins, Managing Partner and Chief Communications Officer. “The goal is to unlock youth potential, grow confidence and improve wellbeing through consistent effort and a strong support system.”
As a former youth athlete, Pete put in the hard work in practice on the field and in the rink to enhance his performance. But some of the biggest lessons of grit, determination and resilience happened beyond the field of play balancing athletics with a summer job during middle school at Butcher Boy Market, which his parents encouraged him to take on. Operating a forklift, unloading pallets of goods off semi-trailer trucks, stocking shelves and customer service and deliveries all well managing athletics and academics provided life lessons and a foundation for success.
Pete went on to win state championships for St. John’s Prep, earn a business degree from Georgetown University and have a successful career as a Communications and Public Relations Executive. He also gets to tap into one of his passions and build the next generation of grit as a youth travel soccer coach.
what we do
What is GPK?
We believe that success isn’t about raw talent—it’s about the work ethic, mindset, and persistence to push through challenges. Every failure, every setback, every moment of struggle adds to your Grit Pile—the foundation of future success.
What is a Grit Pile?
A Grit Pile is every tough moment, every failure, every setback you’ve ever faced—and got back up from! It’s the mental muscle that separates the best from the rest. Champions aren’t born; they’re built through resilience, passion, and effort.
Independence Leads to Confidence!
It starts with independence—learning make decisions, and take action without waiting for permission. We believe that kids who take ownership of their journey develop the mental toughness and resilience needed to thrive in life.
Freedom to Explore!
Creativity isn’t just about art—it’s about problem-solving, innovation, and discovering what truly excites a child. When kids are given the freedom to explore their creativity, they develop confidence, resilience, and the ability to think outside the box.
The Power of Accountability!
Accountability is a key life skill that helps kids develop responsibility, resilience, and integrity. When children learn to own their actions—both successes and mistakes—they build confidence, character, and a strong work ethic.
What Makes a Grit Pile Kid?
It’s not just about skill—it’s about character. The journey to success, whether in sports or life, is built on these five core traits: Passion, Perseverance, Accountability, Kindness, Independence. Building confident, unstoppable kids ready to take on any challenge.
We walk the talk!
We don’t just talk about hard work, resilience, and accountability—we live it. Everything we create, from concept to publishing, is done in-house with the grit and determination we teach kids to have in life.
Building Resilience!
Life isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about facing them head-on and coming out stronger. We teach young athletes that resilience isn’t just a skill—it’s a mindset. If you are passionate, you can find a way!
Grit Pile Kidz x Pro Athletes
We don’t just talk about resilience—we bring in real athletes who’ve lived it. Our collaboration with current and former pros gives kids an inside look at what it takes to push through adversity, stay mentally tough, and never quit.