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What Is Rising Academy?

Rising Academy is a community-based youth development organization focused on confidence, character, and preparation for life. We work with young people at different stages of their development using sports, education, mentorship, and exposure to opportunity to help them grow into disciplined, self-believing, and capable individuals.

Our programs are designed to meet youth where they are and prepare them for what’s next.

Why Rising Academy Exists

Young people don’t just need training. They need belief, structure, and direction.

Rising Academy was created to help youth build confidence early, understand expectations as they grow, and gain exposure to opportunities before adulthood forces decisions on them.

Each program within Rising Academy is intentional and age-appropriate, guiding youth step by step as they develop mentally, physically, and personally.

Our Programs

Rising Stars (Ages 6-14): Rising Stars helps young athletes learn and grow through football in positive, energetic, and encouraging environment. We focus on building confidence, developing fundamentals, and creating a love for the game while reinforcing strong character.

Rising Elites (9th-12th Grade): Rising Elites is built for athletes who are ready to go beyond drills. Participants gain football IQ, recruiting knowledge, academic accountability, and mindset tools plus real resources they can use long after the clinic ends.

Rising Futures (9th-12th Grade): Rising Futures connects students to real-world opportunites before graduation. Through exposure to careers, trades, businesses and entrepreneurship, students gain confidence, direction, and a clearer understanding that there are multiple paths to success.

About Me

I'm Jalen Mayes, founder of Rising Academy. I'm a proud father to my two amazing kids, Oaklei and Nathan. I'm also a mentor and coach. Rising Academy was created to help the youth grow into confident, motivated, and resilient individuals both on and off the field. I believe every kid has potential, and sometimes all it takes is the right environment, encouragement, and example to help them see it in themselves.

My journey hasn’t been perfect. I’ve faced moments of self-doubt, uncertainty, and learning how to believe in myself. Through that, I discovered that confidence, self-belief, and having a vision can completely change the way you show up in sports, school, and life. Rising Academy is built to pass those lessons on in a positive, practical, and relatable way.

Through our programs Rising Stars, Rising Elites, and Rising Futures we meet athletes where they are and help them continue to grow at every stage. Our focus is on skill development, character, and mindset, so athletes leave stronger, more confident, and excited about their future.

Rising Academy is more than training, it's a place where young people are encouraged to rise into who they're becoming.