UCA & Uncut Gems Summer Hoops Program

Hello everyone; my name is Brian Mazique. I'm asking for help establishing a summer program for a high school basketball team that I coach just outside Chicago.

For the past two years, I have been the head coach for the boys' team at Unity Christian Academy. It's a very new school. We will have just our second graduating class in June. The basketball program is wrapping up its first-ever IHSA season, and we don't have a massive budget for training, equipment, transportation, uniform, shoes, etc.

Our school has income-based tuition, and many of our parents cannot afford the training and transportation fees associated with being involved with the team.

I have identified the need for strength and conditioning, skills training, and assistant coaches (I'm a one-man show currently) for the summer and next season. We are unable to play officially as a school team over the summer, but I started a summer team and opened it up to other kids who want an opportunity to gain experience and exposure in hopes of playing ball in college. That program is called Uncut Gems, and we're heading into our second summer.

Over the past two years, I have paid out of pocket for various things for my boys. The sacrifice has been worth it, but I know I need help if I'm to provide the boys with the kind of training they need to improve over the summer.

I have spoken with two trainers and assistants willing to help our boys, but the cost per family would be steep, and I cannot add enough of my own money to the efforts to relieve a considerable amount of the weight.

Therefore, I'm asking for donations to help reduce or eliminate the fees for each student-athlete. If I reach or exceed my goal, I will be able to offer this program (strength and conditioning/skills/practice gym rental/ pay for assistants/ transportation to and from summer games/uniforms/shoes) to all 7 of my returning players at little-to-no cost.

No dollar amount is insignificant, and even if we fall short of the goal, it will lower the cost each family would need to pay. I have fully embraced the role of coach, mentor, and father figure to my team, and I hope to provide them with the best experience and preparation as they attempt to go to the next level as athletes and young adults.

Thanks for your time and support.