GSP Representative Travis Stark and Team Up KSA are celebrating the first anniversary of Team Up Basketball Academy. Over the past ten years, GSP has partnered and celebrated milestones with Team Up.
“The highlight of the academy for me is that coaching doesn't feel like work, but rather a chance to invest and impact kids through the vehicle of sports. I love seeing the joy and determination of kids learning and competing in a sports environment.” – Travis Stark, GSP Representative & Team Up Academy Director
The successful premiere season has been full of growth. The Basketball Academy developed two teams for boys and girls, ages 6-13, with 30 total players. Parents have witnessed growth as well, noting the positive development in their children both on and off the court.
“I have heard from several parents that their kids are eager to get to the court early for practice since they love basketball and enjoy practicing by themselves. Learning a sport should be fun!” – Travis Stark, GSP Representative
The Football Academy continues to grow, as well. As the Academy Director, Travis coaches alongside two Team Up assistants, including GSP Intern Lianna Gates. Lianna has brought new energy to the football academy, while also playing for a local women’s football club.
Lianna’s club recently played an exhibition match against the U13 boys she helps coach at Team Up. “It has been cool to see some of the boys have a mentality shift in regards to women playing football since I started working with the team. After losing the match against the women's team, one of the players came up and told me how well we played. Seeing young boys learn life lessons through football has been an honor for me and I am hoping to see some young girls out there, too, in the coming months!" – GSP Intern & Team Up Coach, Lianna Gates
Training sessions focus on excellence in the young athletes’ lives both on and off the pitch. Each training session begins by going over the coach’s rules and discussing a specific word for the week. That word is specifically chosen for personal improvement and character growth. Many of the kids especially love this part of practice.
As Team Up looks to the future, it is seeking a larger venue to conduct more sports programs and academy focuses. GSP looks forward to continuing its partnership with Team Up academies as they foster the personal and physical growth of young athletes.