Sy’Veon Wilkerson is a remarkable ambassador for the Minority Youth Academy (MYA), exemplifying dedication both on the field and in his academic pursuits. His journey through college football has been guided by legendary coach Deion Sanders, first at Jackson State and then at Colorado, before Wilkerson transferred to Georgia State.
Wilkerson's football career took off under the mentorship of Coach Sanders at Jackson State, where he earned a spot on the 2022 ALL-SWAC Football First Team. Stepping into the starting lineup in the third game of the season, Wilkerson became the powerhouse behind Jackson State’s rushing attack, amassing 1,039 yards on 197 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry, with eight touchdowns. He also caught 17 passes for 117 yards and one touchdown. His 1,000-yard rushing season was a historic achievement, marking the 12th such season in the school's history and the first since 1999. Among his standout performances was a career-high 214-yard rushing game against Texas Southern, the sixth-highest single-game total in Jackson State history.
After earning his Associate's degree at Jackson State, Wilkerson followed Coach Sanders to Colorado, where he continued to excel, earning his Bachelor's degree. Now, as a starting running back at Georgia State, Wilkerson is pursuing his Master's degree while continuing to make an impact on the field.
As an MYA ambassador, Wilkerson is not only a role model for young athletes but also an embodiment of the importance of balancing academics and athletics. His journey, marked by resilience and hard work, serves as an inspiration to the next generation of student-athletes. Through MYA, Wilkerson is committed to helping young people achieve their dreams, showing them that with the right mindset and support, they can excel both in sports and in their education.
Jermaine Davǒn Corbett Jr. is an exceptional ambassador for the Minority Youth Academy (MYA), demonstrating excellence both in academics and athletics. His football career has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing his talent and dedication on the field while also prioritizing his education.
Corbett began his academic journey by earning an Associate's degree at Stony Hill. He then advanced to Merrimack College in Boston, where he is currently pursuing his Bachelor's degree while continuing to shine as a standout athlete.
On the field, Jermaine Corbett Jr. has established himself as one of the top running backs in the NEC (Northeast Conference). His accolades include being named a 2x NEC First Team All-Conference Running Back, a testament to his consistent performance and impact on the game. Additionally, he has been recognized as an 8x NEC Prime Performer of the Week and a 6x NEC Offensive Player of the Week, underscoring his ability to deliver exceptional performances week after week. His outstanding play even earned him the prestigious title of FCS Offensive Player of the Week on one occasion, highlighting his status as one of the top players in the Football Championship Subdivision.
As an MYA ambassador, Corbett represents the perfect blend of athletic prowess and academic dedication. His journey serves as an inspiration to young athletes, showing them that it is possible to excel both on the field and in the classroom. Through his role with MYA, Jermaine Corbett Jr. is committed to guiding and mentoring the next generation of student-athletes, helping them realize their full potential and achieve success in all areas of their lives.
We believe in the power of community and the importance of working together to achieve our goals. At Minority Youth Academy, we empower individuals and communities to create lasting change.
Martin Luther King Jr.
The mission of Minority Youth Academy (MYA) is to empower and uplift minority youth by providing them with opportunities to excel in Entertainment, Athletics, and Academics through our comprehensive YEAA model. We are dedicated to creating pathways for success by fostering environments where young individuals can develop their talents, gain access to valuable resources, and receive mentorship. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of leaders, athletes, and artists by equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to achieve their dreams and make a lasting impact on their communities.
Malachi Goodman, a standout student-athlete from Paramus Catholic in New Jersey, exemplifies the qualities of mental toughness that are essential for success in both academics and athletics. His journey is characterized by an unwavering commitment to developing resilience and a positive mindset, which enables him to handle the unique pressures of balancing rigorous academic responsibilities with the demands of high-level sports competition.
Mental Toughness:
Malachi understands that success requires more than just physical skill and academic knowledge; it also demands mental fortitude. He works diligently to build resilience, learning to stay composed under pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain focus even when the challenges seem overwhelming. Whether it’s a tough exam or a critical moment in a game, Malachi’s ability to stay mentally strong ensures he performs at his best. He embraces a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities to improve rather than obstacles to overcome.
Support Network:
Malachi’s achievements are not just the result of his own efforts; they are also supported by a strong network of individuals who are invested in his success. His coaches provide not only training and strategy but also mentorship, helping him navigate the complexities of being a student-athlete. Professors offer academic support, ensuring he stays on track with his studies while balancing his athletic commitments. His teammates, who share similar experiences, offer camaraderie and motivation, pushing him to reach new heights. Lastly, his family and friends serve as a constant source of encouragement and grounding, providing the emotional support that keeps him motivated and focused on his goals.
Together, this comprehensive support system empowers Malachi to thrive, both in the classroom and on the field, as he continues to develop into a well-rounded individual with the mental toughness needed to succeed in all areas of life.
We believe that success in sports should go hand-in-hand with academic achievement. To this end, we encourage student-athletes to prioritize their education. This means staying organized with assignments, actively participating in classes, and seeking help when challenges arise—whether through tutoring, study groups, or consulting teachers. Maintaining a strong GPA is not just a requirement; it’s a testament to their dedication and a critical component of their future opportunities, whether in college or their professional careers. We instill the understanding that academic success opens doors and provides a safety net beyond athletics.
By focusing on these areas, the Minority Youth Academy helps student-athletes build a foundation for lifelong success, both on and off the field.
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