Today we’d like to introduce you to Elise Rankins.
Hi Elise, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for the success of coaches and athletes off of the field. In the fall of 2020, With the support of friends and local high school coaches, I formalized an organization, The Coaches Collective that assists high school football programs in various areas. Since our inception, we’ve assisted in reforming a school’s weight room, we provide snacks for fueling stations for athletes (ensuring that athletes receive proper nutrition), host professional development opportunities for coaches and we donate monetarily to programs for uniforms, fees, etc. Though we care about the athlete holistically, our main goal is to unify coaches and provide the support system that they need to be successful in their professions and as a person outside of sports.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The largest challenge was getting started. I’ve had such an enormous support system from loved ones near and far and I’ve been embraced by the loving athletic community in Atlanta. Coaches need support from their schools, PTSA, players, alumni, friends, families and local businesses. They are making major deposits into the lives of student-athletes who will lead generations to come.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
By trade, I’m an events professional. I’ve worked in the professional and collegiate sports realm for nearly 20 years. I organize large scale events (dinners, galas, tournaments, fundraisers, etc.) I am currently the Director of Events for Overtime Elite, a new professional basketball league that is based in Atlanta and gives your top young basketball players in the world an alternative to college and prepares them for the NBA.
I believe my love for athletes and coaches sets me apart. Being integrated in sports, it’s not just what I do but who I am.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I think COVID-19 further exposed the disparities in our communities. Our organization utilized the method of merely showing up, motivational speaking/encouragement and keeping our promise to our coaches and athletes to distinguish ourselves. Being isolated or quarantined was tough for a lot of people and having the ability to come to practice and being around their counterparts brought joy to not just our coaches and players but to me. I felt like I was able to use God-given gifts of kindness and care to make a difference.
Pricing:
- Annual Memberships – $150 per coach
Contact Info:
- Email: info@coachescollect.com
- Instagram: Coaches_collect
- Twitter: Coaches_collect
Image Credits
Danielle Page, Rachel Vaughn
