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Meet The Team
At the heart of ABLE are the lifelong professionals whose decades of dedication at TNT have shaped its impact.
From the beginning, TNT has been driven by vision, ambition, and a deep commitment to inclusion. As one of its founders, Kim envisioned a place where every person—regardless of ability—could participate, grow, and experience the joy of movement.
Over the past 20 years, Nate, and Leslie poured their passion, expertise, and belief in every child’s potential. Together, they developed the ABLE Framework, a model that is transforming how thousands of students experience learning, movement, and belonging. Their work across physical education, adaptive PE, and occupational therapy has placed them shoulder‑to‑shoulder with students every day, witnessing the struggle, the courage, and the breakthrough moments that change lives.
These experiences have shaped ABLE into far more than a set of tools. It is a living, breathing approach built from hope, resilience, and a deep understanding of what students need to thrive. Rooted in real classrooms and real stories, ABLE inspires educators, empowers students, and proves that when we design with purpose and compassion, every child can discover their strength.
President & CEO
Kim Pladson
Kim Pladson grew up in rural ND. She is the President/CEO of TNT Kid’s Fitness and one of the co-founders. She is the visionary behind the organization’s groundbreaking work, leading its growth both within its local footprint and across North Dakota. Through her leadership, she launched innovative school-community partnerships and actively works at the policy and practice levels to drive meaningful, systemic changes.
Kim’s passion is rooted in helping every child reach their fullest potential. She is a steadfast advocate for ensuring all children have equitable opportunities, regardless of ability. Under her leadership, TNT envisions expanding its tools and resources to support integrated learning in public schools throughout North Dakota—and ultimately far beyond.
Occupational Therapist
Leslie Frie
Leslie Pladson Frie grew up in West Fargo, ND. She has been with TNT for 20 years. She received her degree in Occupational Therapy and established an OT practice within the TNT facility, where she has helped children build skills, confidence, and independence. Her work continues to unlock potential and expand what is possible for every child she serves now in a partnership with Fargo Public Schools. Leslie has also been instrumental in setting up an OT research study with the University of Mary working on emotional regulation. She serves as an adjunct instructor at Minnesota State University Moorhead, where she prepares future professionals in Physical Education. Each fall, she connects her students with TNT Kid’s Fitness, embedding them in hands-on programming for nine weeks to gain meaningful, real-world experience working with diverse youth. Leslie brings a unique and innovative perspective shaped by her background as a collegiate gymnast and CrossFit athlete. Recognizing the potential to adapt these disciplines, she has been a pioneer in making strength and movement programs accessible and beneficial for individuals with special needs. Leslie Co-Leads the ABLE Games which is hosted annually by TNT Kid’s Fitness.
Adapted & Physical Education and Health Educator
Nate Hendrickson
Nate Hendrickson has been with TNT for 18+ years and has played a pivotal role in expanding TNT Kid’s Fitness’ impact through strategic partnerships with public schools and agencies serving children and adults with special needs. His leadership helped establish meaningful collaborations that continue to grow inclusive opportunities within the community.
Nate has also been instrumental in integrating graduate-level and doctoral students from local universities into TNT’s adapted daytime programs. By creating hands-on learning experiences, he is helping shape the next generation of educators—because, as Nate believes, some of the most important lessons simply cannot be learned from a textbook.
Known for his extraordinary ability to connect with others, Nate brings a rare and powerful strength to his work: relationship-building. His natural rapport with children has earned him the affectionate nickname, “the child whisperer,” reflecting the trust, understanding, and joy he brings to every interaction.
Sales & Support Specialist
Kathy Klath
Kathy has a deep knowledge of ABLE, how Clara can assist you, and the onboarding process. She can answer any question you may have. She enjoys helping educators learn more about the benefits and how ABLE can help transform your school and community. She will help your school be successful every step of the way from product to consulting! Reach out to inquire about pricing or explore bundled package options.
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ABLE Consultant
Dr. Joe Deutsch
Dr. Joe Deutsch is an accomplished educator and leader in the field of physical education, dedicating more than two decades to teaching as a professor in the Department of Physical Education Teacher Education at North Dakota State University. He previously taught K–12 Physical Education for several years, eventually specializing in Elementary Physical Education. Throughout his distinguished career, he demonstrated exceptional leadership by serving twice as President of North Dakota SHAPE, as President of the Central District SHAPE, and ultimately as President of SHAPE America, one of the nation’s leading organizations promoting health and physical education. In addition to his academic and professional contributions, Dr. Deutsch devoted three decades of service to the Special Olympics of North Dakota, reflecting a lifelong commitment to inclusion, advocacy, and opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports and physical activity.
ABLE in School
Your Partner in Physical Education Excellence
ABLE in School is where students learn to move with confidence, think with purpose, and connect with others in meaningful ways. ABLE’s tools and resources are a partnership in creating vibrant, inclusive, and empowering physical education experiences where students have the chance to grow, belong, and thrive.