Story of ConNEXTions Foundation

In a world where talented young athletes often face immense pressure and financial pitfalls, the ConNEXTions Foundation was born out of necessity and passion. Founded in Los Angeles in 2023 by Mike and Barbara Ross, the nonprofit aims to guide student-athletes through the complex maze of athletics, academics, and finances, ensuring they are well-prepared for a future beyond sports.

The Mission

ConNEXTions Foundation is committed to fostering a supportive environment for student-athletes, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed not only in their sport but in life. The mission is simple yet profound: to secure full scholarships for these student athletes, help them achieve a college degree, and teach them financial literacy so they can start their adult lives on stable ground.

The Founding Story

The foundation's inception is deeply rooted in the personal experiences of its founders and the challenges they witnessed around them. Stories of "under-the-table" dealings and financially illiterate athletes losing their earnings painted a grim picture.

The Student Athletes

Athletes like Paige Bueckers, who, at just 12, faced monumental decisions about her future, inspired the need for change. The Ross's recognized the undue pressure young athletes face from their families and society, pushing them to make adult decisions in regard to academics, athletics and finances while still in their teens.

With the legalization of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) rights for college athletes in 2021 and the subsequent allowance for high school athletes in states like California to receive endorsements, there was an urgent need to support these young individuals. The foundation was born to protect and guide them through these new opportunities and challenges.

The Impact

Despite being a young organization, ConNEXTions has already made significant strides. By accepting both male and female student athletes across all sports, the foundation maintains a selective approach, ensuring a special and elite experience. Currently, they are nurturing 41 student athletes nationwide, with 28 showing professional sport potential and 8 on a trajectory toward the Olympics.

Our Goal

The ultimate goal for each athlete is clear and ambitious—secure a full scholarship, earn a college degree, and teach each student athlete how to save enough money to buy a house upon graduation.

Building a Brighter Future

Through sponsorships, endorsements, and grants, ConNEXTions is laying the groundwork for a brighter future for these young stars. The foundation is not just about sports; it's about life skills, education, and breaking the cycle of financial instability. By investing in these young athletes today, ConNEXTions is shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

ConNEXTions is a non-profit 501c3 and adheres to all NCAA guidelines applicable to each state.