Coach Smitty and Coach Tim are empowering youth through sports and discipline

It is a true blessing when we can look around and see pillars in our community — brothers and sisters who willingly sacrifice their time, money, and energy to build something bigger than themselves. Today, we shine a light on two of those pillars: Brother Coach Smitty and Brother Coach Tim, who for years have stood side by side, transforming the dreams of our youth into real-life achievements through their Instant Results Basketball Skills Academy .

(l) Coach Tim (r) Coach Smitty

No matter the obstacles they face, these two remain steadfast, backed by a dedicated crew of staff who share their vision: our children deserve a place where they are mentored, disciplined, and taught the true meaning of teamwork. This is not just a Saturday program — it is a lifeline.

Coach Smitty giving words of encouragement

In the words of Coach Smitty, shared passionately with the young players:

“Your confidence will make your business.” Believing in yourself is the foundation of everything you build. Whether in sports, business, school, or life, confidence shapes how you act and how others perceive you. Without it, even the best skills go unused.

“Don’t let anybody tell you you can’t do it.” Reject negative voices — whether they come from outside or from your own mind. Success starts when you refuse to accept limits that others place on you.

“You’ve always got to start something, you understand?” Taking action matters. Nothing happens if you stand still or only dream about success. You must begin, even when it’s hard or uncertain.

“But when you come in here, make sure you try your best — don’t bring forty percent, thirty percent, or sixty percent. I want to see one hundred percent.” Half-hearted effort won’t get you to your goals. You need to show up fully, give your all, and be committed every time you step into the arena — whether that’s the gym, the classroom, or your personal goals.

“What’s stopping you from being great? Only you.” Your biggest obstacle is often yourself — your doubts, fears, or lack of effort. No one can block your greatness unless you allow it.

“When you look in the mirror, like Mike said, you want this, right?” You have to be honest with yourself about what you want. Look yourself in the eye, and hold yourself accountable for chasing your dreams.

“So when you hear people say only four hundred players make it to the NBA or WNBA, why can’t it be one of you?” Don’t be discouraged by the odds. Somebody makes it — so why not you? Believe you can be among the few who break through, rather than assuming you’ll be left out.

“But when you come in here, you’ve got to put in your work. Okay?” At the end of the day, belief is not enough without hard work. You need to consistently put in effort, practice, and discipline if you want to turn your dreams into reality.

These words are not just for the court; they are words for life. But here’s the bigger picture: we cannot leave this work on the shoulders of just a few. Faith-based organizations and community workshops are stepping up every day to serve our youth — but they cannot do it alone. We know too well that when young people have nothing to do, especially during the long summer months, trouble has a way of creeping in.

Here is how we can help. Yes, some programs come with a cost — but instead of focusing on what we lack, let’s focus on what we can pool together. Imagine if local businesses began sponsoring these youth programs, using their donations as tax write-offs. Imagine if parents and community members, who want to see these programs thrive, contributed as well — because as long as these organizations are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, every contribution not only fuels the program but also benefits the giver.

This is how we circulate resources within the village. We identify the programs we want to support. We sponsor them, fund them, and uplift them. We help keep our children off the streets and inside spaces that build them up.

If you live close to Clinton Maryland or know of similar programs in your area, we urge you to support them. Whether through time, donations, or simply spreading the word, you are part of a village under the umbrella of God, and together, we can make sure no child is left without a place to grow, dream, and thrive.

If you would like your child to join the team, please contact Coach Smitty at (240) 988-6324 or visit in person on Saturdays 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon.

Outreach Christian Center

6701 Clinton Manor Dr.

Clinton M.D 20735

Let’s move forward in unity, faith, and purpose, because our village can only rise if we lift together. With gratitude and determination,