Our Core Strength
Meet our board the expertise and passion fueling our programs.
Derrick Martin
Derrick J. Martin, with a diverse background that spans professional sports and educational leadership, serves as the Executive Director of America’s Youth Sports Inc. Derrick’s illustrious journey began at the University of Wyoming, where his academic endeavors in Social Sciences and African American Diaspora Studies laid the groundwork for his future initiatives. His athletic prowess led him to a commendable career in the National Football League, where as a 6th Round Draft Pick Defensive Back, he became a Super Bowl champion not once, but twice.
Transitioning from the gridiron to strategic leadership roles, Derrick became the Tennessee Territory Director and Advisory Board member for Sports Thread in Denver, Colorado, where he expanded the influence of student-athletes through innovative recruiting practices and robust team management. His dedication to fostering global citizens through sports is evident in his foundational work with America’s Youth Sports Inc. Here, he has been pivotal in creating and implementing programs that embody the STAGE (Sports, Technology, Agriculture, Gaming, and Entrepreneurship) curriculum.
In Merida, Mexico, Derrick’s role as International Director for Universal One – LIOTA saw him contribute to educational innovation, creating micro-schools recognized for their educational advancements. Back in the U.S., his coaching career includes transforming Thomas Jefferson High School’s football team into a dominating force in Denver and contributing to a state championship at Lipscomb Academy.
At the heart of his work, Derrick’s foundational ethos—serving underprivileged children through sports and agriculture—has remained consistent, touching the lives of over 2,500 kids annually. His strategic planning, inspirational leadership, and precise execution have left an indelible mark on communities from Denver to Baltimore and beyond. As he leads America’s Youth Sports Inc. into new horizons, Derrick continues to be an exemplary figure in the pursuit of excellence in youth development.
Lauren Hollingsworth
As a newly appointed board member of America’s Youth Sports, Lauren brings an unparalleled blend of athletic excellence, scientific expertise, and corporate leadership to the organization. With a storied background as a former SEC track and field athlete for Ole Miss and a B1G Ten Indoor Champion during her tenure at Illinois, Lauren embodies the spirit of determination, discipline, and resilience that America’s Youth Sports aims to instill in young athletes across the nation.
Following an illustrious athletic career, Lauren transitioned into the realm of science, serving as an analytical chemist for over a decade. This experience honed her analytical skills, attention to detail, and a rigorous approach to problem-solving — qualities that are invaluable in both the laboratory and on the playing field.
Currently, as a project manager for a leading Fortune 500 pharmaceutical company, Lauren demonstrates exceptional leadership, strategic planning capabilities, and a commitment to excellence. Her role involves overseeing complex projects, managing cross-functional teams, and driving innovation in healthcare — skills that will be instrumental in guiding America’s Youth Sports towards its mission of empowering young athletes.
Lauren’s journey from a champion athlete to a scientist and corporate leader is a testament to her versatility, tenacity, and passion for making a difference. As part of the board, she is dedicated to leveraging her diverse experiences to promote sportsmanship, encourage academic achievement, and support the holistic development of young athletes across America. Her vision for America’s Youth Sports is not just about nurturing physical talent but fostering a generation of well-rounded, disciplined, and motivated individuals ready to excel in every aspect of their lives.
Sydney Thompson
Sydney Thompson is thrilled to announce her recent appointment to the board of Americas Youth Sports Inc. Her journey began at Gillette College, where she was awarded a soccer and basketball scholarship. With an associate degree in hand, Thompson transferred to Adams State University, continuing her passion for soccer while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, complemented by a minor in Culturally Linguistic Diversity. After earning her degree, Thompson embarked on an international teaching adventure in Honduras, where she not only enriched her teaching experience but also completed her master’s degree in Curriculum Instruction, earning an endorsement in Culturally Linguistic Diversity.
Currently, she is shaping young minds as a 2nd-grade teacher in Denver, Colorado, bringing her global experiences into the classroom. Sports have always been a significant part of Thompson’s life, having engaged in soccer, basketball, softball, swim team, track, and travel ball throughout her years. Her athletic prowess was recognized in high school, where she earned 16 letters in various sports, including soccer, basketball, softball, track, and even football. Currently, Thompson contributes to her community by coaching women’s soccer and softball at Thomas Jefferson High School.
Beyond her professional commitments, Thompson cherishes her time traveling, reading, kickboxing, and enjoying moments with family and friends. Her excitement about joining the board of Americas Youth Sports Inc is palpable, as she looks forward to contributing her extensive experience in sports and education to further the organization’s mission.
Shayla Johnson
Shay Johnson is celebrated as the vibrant Race & Culture Contributor and the engaging host of “Sitting with Shay J: Exploring Impact, Inspiring Change” on TEGNA 9NEWS. Driven by her steadfast commitment to “Change The Narrative,” Johnson stands out in the realm of journalism through her potent blend of storytelling, empowerment, and active community involvement. As a certified Eric Thomas speaker and an enthusiastic Scrum Master, she is at the forefront of facilitating change, skillfully applying agile methodologies to amplify her impact. Johnson has also earned distinction as Denver’s official host for Juneteenth, where she tackles significant issues, captivating a nationwide audience with her fearless approach.
Moreover, as a co-owner of Why Women Win, Johnson dedicates herself to uplifting marginalized voices, firmly believing in the ripple effect of empowering women within their communities. Her influence is not confined to the borders of the United States; Johnson has an international footprint, thanks to her dedication to youth through her roles in speaking and mentoring. This has established her as a lighthouse of motivation and transformation across the globe.
It’s with immense excitement that Shay Johnson joins the board of Americas Youth Sports Inc, eager to leverage her extensive experience in storytelling, community engagement, and leadership. Her journey, detailed on www.iamshayj.com, highlights her transformative approach, where she applies agile leadership and a national voice to enact meaningful change. As she steps into this new role, Johnson is poised to infuse Americas Youth Sports Inc with her dynamic energy and visionary perspective, aiming to further enrich the lives of young athletes across the Americas.
Tyler Jones
Tyler Jones serves as the Director of Communications for a Colorado-based nonprofit, with a profound commitment to community service and activism. Her journey in serving the community is marked by her tenure as a college cheerleader, where she not only competed on a national level but also took her passion forward by coaching high school varsity cheerleading. Over the past decade, Jones has emerged as a steadfast leader in education, advocating tirelessly for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Holding a degree in Communication Studies from the University of Northern Colorado, Jones’s dedication and impact in her field have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her nomination as a 2023 Northern Colorado 40 under 40 honoree. With great enthusiasm, she embraces the opportunity to serve on the board of America’s Youth Sports Inc., where she is eager to contribute her wealth of experience and passion for youth development. Jones is particularly excited about the prospect of leveraging her skills in communication and leadership to foster a positive impact within the organization, aiming to enhance the experiences of young athletes across the nation.
Jana Smith
Jana Smith brings over two decades of experience in event planning and community engagement to her role as a Board Member at America’s Youth Sports. As the founder and driving force behind a successful event company, Smith has orchestrated a wide array of events ranging from high-profile corporate gatherings to impactful community functions and substantial fundraising initiatives.
Her collaboration with professional athletes and their foundations has been pivotal in cultivating community development. Through sports camps, mentorship programs, and outreach campaigns, Smith has worked tirelessly to ensure that youth are provided with opportunities that promote not only physical well-being but also personal growth and community connection.
Smith’s passion for supporting organizations that lay the groundwork for children to grow into strong, educated, and ethically resourceful adults is at the heart of her commitment. Her expertise in creating events that resonate with diverse audiences and her dedication to youth empowerment have made her an invaluable asset to the board of America’s Youth Sports, where her guidance helps shape the organization’s mission to enrich the lives of young individuals through sports.
Jai Jackson
Jai brings a compelling mix of experience and passion to the board as a member dedicated to harnessing the transformative impact of sports on youth. His extensive background in education, sports management, and community development equips him with a multifaceted perspective that he applies to foster environments where young people can excel both athletically and personally.
Known for his innovative contributions to youth sports programs, Jai has a track record of launching initiatives that not only emphasize physical fitness but also impart crucial life skills, such as teamwork, resilience, and discipline. His work has garnered recognition within the nonprofit realm, illustrating the effectiveness of his strategies in sports-based youth development.
With a clear vision for collaboration, Jai’s efforts have led to partnerships with local educational institutions, community centers, and sports leagues, broadening the reach of sports programs to include children of all backgrounds. His commitment to inclusivity and equality is a cornerstone of his philosophy, ensuring every child he works with has a fair chance to succeed.
More than his professional achievements, Jai’s real impact is felt in his hands-on approach to mentorship. He stands as a role model and a beacon of encouragement for the youth, actively participating in their journeys and advocating for their continued growth and development.
Robert "Buba" Aragon
Bubba Davis, a native of Denver, Colorado, and raised in Montbello, embodies a rich cultural tapestry as a descendant of African American, Native American, and Mexican heritage. As a dedicated father of two, he’s woven his diverse background into a remarkable journey. Bubba’s athletic prowess led him to excel as a former Division 1 soccer player, igniting a passion that transcended borders. Venturing into the international arena, he distinguished himself as a professional soccer player in Mexico, where he honed not only his athletic skills but also his appreciation for cultural exchange.
Transitioning from the field to education, Bubba has made significant strides in fostering cross-cultural understanding and academic excellence. In Mexico, he established and successfully operates the Language Institute Of The Americas, a testament to his commitment to language learning and cultural immersion. Through this institute, Bubba has facilitated connections between individuals from diverse backgrounds, bridging linguistic and cultural divides.
Furthermore, Bubba’s vision extends beyond traditional education models. Recognizing the need to nurture gifted and talented individuals, he established a Micro Academy catering to students from preschool through high school. This academy, rooted in a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and Polyglot curriculum, empowers students to explore their potential across various disciplines while embracing linguistic diversity.
Bubba’s multifaceted approach to education reflects his belief in the transformative power of knowledge and cultural exchange. Through his endeavors, he continues to shape young minds, instilling in them a sense of curiosity, resilience, and global citizenship. As a trailblazer in both athletics and education, Bubba Davis stands as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
