Built by Coaches.
Driven by Purpose.
The Elite Student Athlete Foundation is a West Valley, Arizona nonprofit, recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity in 2026 (EIN 42-3630561), founded on one belief: every student-athlete deserves a champion in their corner.
From the Field to the Foundation
ESA grew out of more than a decade of coaching Arizona youth football. Season after season, we saw talented, hard-working kids who needed more than practice. They needed mentors, help in the classroom, and someone to help them over the financial barriers that keep good athletes from reaching their potential.
The Elite Student Athlete Foundation was established in 2026 to provide that support. We start where we are: mentoring, community outreach, and youth football through Jr Vipers, the feeder program for Verrado High School. Tutoring, athlete financial support, and scholarships come next.
We are building this foundation with integrity, transparency, and a long-term commitment to our athletes on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
To develop student-athletes on and off the field through mentorship, education, athletic development, and opportunity, building champions in sport and in life.
Our Core Values
Excellence
We push student-athletes to pursue excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and character.
Equity
Every student-athlete deserves access to opportunities, resources, and support.
Integrity
We operate with honesty, transparency, and accountability, and we do what is right.
Community
Strong communities create stronger athletes. We bring families, mentors, coaches, and supporters together.
Resilience
We help athletes build the confidence, discipline, and determination to overcome challenges.
Opportunity
We create pathways toward academic, athletic, and personal goals.
The Team Behind the Mission
Eric "EJ" Brown
EJ has coached Arizona youth football since 2014 and is a Verrado dad and community supporter. He founded ESA to give student-athletes access to mentorship, resources, and opportunity, and he leads ESA's programs, partnerships, and fundraising.
Board of Directors
ESA is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that oversees the foundation's mission, finances, and accountability.
- Board ChairTea Brown
- Vice ChairDean Walker
- SecretaryCharlotte Duran-Walker
- TreasurerMegan Kehler
A growing network of coaches, mentors, educators, families, and local businesses committed to developing student-athletes.
Join Us in Building the Next Generation
Donor, sponsor, mentor, or parent: there's a place for you on this team.