The Team Approach Foundation and its work with young student-athletes has been nothing short of a powerful two-way experience for both our team and the student-athletes we serve. Our program, now entering its fifth year, continues to provide opportunities that blend evidence-based prevention with athletic and life-skill development.

Three student-athletes — Joseph DeVane Jr., Isaac Chukwurah, and Koy Guyton — began in the program when they were just 12 years old. Today, as rising seniors preparing for college, they have taken on leadership roles within our team builder and prevention programs, serving as junior coaches and ambassadors.

Their growth has been remarkable. Under the guidance of our prevention specialist and team builder coaches, these young men have embraced the opportunity to lead by example. They consistently demonstrate the lessons they’ve learned over the years, modeling positive choices and strong character for younger participants. Just as importantly, they have embodied what it means to be students first — each of them has earned a place on their high school honor roll every year since 9th grade, maintaining GPA averages of over 3.4.

They are, and will continue to be, an integral part of our mission. Their involvement highlights the strength of using extracurricular activities — such as football and structured prevention programming — to attract, engage, and impact students and student-athletes from across the state.

Most importantly, their journey shows that the Team Approach Foundation is not only shaping athletes for today, but also preparing leaders for tomorrow. Each new group of participants has the opportunity to follow their path — ensuring that the cycle of mentorship, growth, academic excellence, and leadership continues for years to come.