INTRODUCING CLAYWAY ELITE SPORTS ACADEMY
The ClayWay Elite Sports Academy is a non-profit organization committed to empowering
aspiring athletes with the tools and guidance to excel both on and off the basketball court,
fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and community engagement.
Our mission is to cultivate a supportive environment where athletes can thrive physically,
mentally, and emotionally, through elite coaching, skill development, and character building.
Through our dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a sense of belonging, we aim to produce
outstanding individuals who positively impact their communities and the world.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
Founded in 2022 with a humble origin, ClayWay Elite Sports Academy emerged from the
passion and determination of a group of young athletes hailing from the vibrant DMV area. From
its inception, our organization has been driven by a singular mission: to empower youth players,
not just with basketball skills, but with essential life lessons and values that transcend the game
itself.
At ClayWay Elite Sports Academy, we are committed to more than just honing basketball talent.
We strive to be a beacon of guidance and mentorship for young players, offering them a
comprehensive platform to develop fundamental skills while fostering invaluable traits such as
character, teamwork, discipline, respect, and sportsmanship. Central to our ethos is the belief that
every moment on the court should be imbued with purpose, inspiring our players to "Play with a
purpose" in every endeavor they undertake.
At ClayWay Elite Sports Academy, our vision extends far beyond the confines of the basketball
court. We are dedicated to crafting transformative experiences that transcend mere athletic
prowess, instilling in our student-athletes the invaluable life lessons that will shape their journey
both on and off the hardwood.
Our aim is clear: to empower every individual who walks through our doors with the tools they
need to thrive as successful, well-rounded individuals. Through the medium of basketball, we
endeavor to cultivate a culture of growth, resilience, and excellence, equipping our student-
athletes with the skills and mindset necessary to navigate the complexities of life beyond the
game.
Central to our mission is the unwavering commitment to providing opportunities for our student-
athletes to excel, both academically and athletically. We aspire to pave the way for each and
every one of our players to access scholarship opportunities, ensuring that their talent and
dedication are recognized and rewarded. Ultimately, our goal is to offer an unparalleled
experience that not only fuels their passion for the game they love but also propels them towards
a future filled with limitless possibilities.
As a former Division II and high school basketball player, I bring a deep sense of empathy to my coaching approach. They are:
Understanding Emotions: Recognizing and acknowledging the emotions the players go through. Whether they experience trauma, frustration, fear, or excitement on or off the court.
Listening: Listening to players’ concerns, challenges, and aspirations without judging.
Building Trust: Creating a safe and supportive environment where players can feel comfortable to thrive and express themselves.
Adapting Coaching Style: Every player is different. Therefore, connecting with each player on an individual level considering their backgrounds and personality is a must.
Constructive Feedback: Providing feedback to encourage and support players as they develop as an athlete.
Empathy means to prioritize the well-being of the player not just as an athlete but as a person, as they develop relationships and reach their full potential on and off the court.
Being a role model is a responsibility I take seriously, reflects in my demeanor from practices and games to interactions with other coaches, players, and their parents.
My journey from building a championship team to overseeing an entire grassroots athletic program has always been centered around empowering players to succeed on and off the court. I strive to create a positive experience for every player and coach that I work with fueled with a relenting energy to succeed.
Having worked with diverse players, including the elite athletes who have found their way to The Washington Catholic Athletic Conference and higher levels, I understand the grassroots of the basketball culture that seems to value flashy highlight mixes and constant unreasonable comparisons. The athletes are curious. They are enthusiastic. They are still finding their way on the court and in the world.
My philosophy has earned the trust and respect from both parents and players. My role as a coach has allowed me to mentor players from tweens to teens. I believe that my friendly demeanor will be an asset in recruiting and maximizing the contributions from every player on the roster.