Every conversation with Reese Coppage is a celebration of the human spirit. His wry Southern humor, often aimed at himself, makes you laugh. But, the message he sends always makes you think. A retired executive, founder of the Banyan Foundation, Reese takes a deep and genuine interest in the mission and philosophy of All Sports. One of his greatest pleasures is meeting our students and following their progress full circle from high school through college, onward to graduate school or a career, and their return to All Sports to help others.

    One of Reese's most significant contributions to All Sports was introducing us to the philosophy of author Sydney Banks, an ideology that stresses the innate health and wisdom within each person rather than emphasizing “labeling”- so prevalent in the social services. “No person is broken and no one is damaged goods,” Reese says. At a series of Wisdom at Work Workshops and Roundtables, sponsored by Reese, the All Sports staff, along with representatives from dozens of other organizations, explored how Sydney Banks' concepts impact the effectiveness of our mentoring and guidance. Even as we help them “fix” the details of completing forms and contacting colleges, we do not forget that it is unproductive and often damaging to overlook the essential sanctity of every person. Reese's Roundtables taught us how to help students recognize and nurture their own spiritual health to guide themselves towards their own goals. And, we reinforce the All Sports' resolve never to give up on any kid.

    The All Sports staff continues to share this positive perspective with our graduate mentors, students, parents, teachers and counselors, Clearly the attitude is contagious! When students get their college degrees and enter adulthood, they bring with them exceptional understanding and insight to share with the next generation. The ripple effect is enormous.

    In recognition of one of All Sports most cherished friends and honoring his gentle but powerful wisdom, we dedicate our first All Sports Newsletter to Reese Coppage. For all this wonderful man has done for us, he is indeed a “CHAMPION.”

A young man in football gear stares straight ahead and wonders “Do I really have what it takes?”
He's training hard at Raymond James Stadium, the home of the Bucs, running up the bleachers, sprinting across the field. Music pounds in the background, urging him on. He's sweating, breathing heavily and dreams he's ready for the challenge.

    When the City of Tampa decided to make a bid for the 2009 Super Bowl, it was clear they had to produce a sizzling video. Of course there would be the local attractions, but something more was needed, something that would grab the NFL's attention. Tampa Digital Studios created the dramatic video, the story of a determined, committed young man, woven around footage of sunsets, tourists and golf courses.This athlete is the symbol of Tampa. He makes it very clear that he IS ready...and so is Tampa!

    If you believe in being in the right place at the right time, you will agree that Jonta Mention was very lucky. Filmmaker Michael McCourt called All Sports Executive Director Tyrone Keys looking for a local student-athlete to give the video an authentic NFL feel. Tyrone immediately thought of the kid with the big laugh and outgoing personality. All Sports alumnus Jonta Mention, who was mentoring high schoolers during the summer at the All Sports offices, was drafted.

    Growing up in West Tampa, Jonta (pronounced jon-TAY) did not distinguish himself in school, academically or athletically. He played football without inspiration or passion. One of twenty-one children, Jonta skipped school, talked back to teachers, didn't do his homework and often fell asleep in the classroom. Teachers dismissed him as a kid with a bad attitude who would never amount to anything.

Jonta (L) signs his committment to Webber International College, as his mentor Eric “Pink” Floyd, Director of Sports Operations, proudly watches.

    Something changed in Jonta during the summer before his junior year at Tampa Bay Tech. He started to work out fiercely every day, running and lifting, getting in shape for the football season learning the fine points of being a linebacker. Jonta also began to improve his grades and relationships with his teachers. A dream began to grow: to graduate from high school and go to college on a football scholarship. All Sports took Jonta under their wing and helped him get into Alabama A & M and onto their football team - complete with an athletic scholarship.

    Jonta played football throughout his college years but never forgot to devote his time to studying. He never faltered, never complained. After four years, he walked across the stage at Webber International in cap and gown receiving his Bachelor’s degree with high honors and a GPA of 3.8.

    Jonta Mention had a small, but important part to help bring the Super Bowl to Tampa Bay. However, he has yet to perform one of his greatest roles...to help others with similar backgrounds who dream of a college education. He is ready for the challenge. He’s determined... committed. Jonta has what it takes.

    This Fall, Jonta was hired by All Sports alumnus Nate Peoples, Head Strength Coach at Western Michigan University. At Western, Jonta finished his first post graduate term in Business Administration.