Derray Ward 

Founder/Program Director/Coach/Player Development Trainer

As the founder and Program Director, Derray (Coach Ward) invests his heart, soul, and time into each and every youth that he encounters. Ward played basketball at Como Park high school, North Hennepin Community College, and currently plays in charity games and men's leagues around the twin cities. With over 25 years of basketball experience; playing, coaching, and being a fan of the sport. Derray envisioned a mentorship program that would not only enhance basketball skills but also provide guidance, support, and life skills to young individuals facing various challenges.

Growing up in a community where opportunities were limited, Derray experienced firsthand the impact that sports can have on a young person's life. Inspired by his own journey and fueled by a desire to pay it forward, he founded "Forward Thinking Foundation." He is currently the Head Coach for Boys C-Squad at Hiawatha Collegiate Academy(2024-25).

"In the end the results, will always RESULT!"

- Coach Ward

Abdul Kunert

Board Vice Chair

of Nonprofit Organization

"I love to give back to the community any chance that I get. I've been active in communities across the Twin Cities for over 15 years. Hosting events, turkey drives, and much more. It brings me joy and fulfilment. So the idea to be a part of Forward Thinking was brought to me by Derray, it was a no brainer. I guess it helps that we've been friends for 20 years hahaha..."

Alex Hawton

Coach/Board Member

" love basketball and I am also a youth mentor. I have worked in education for many years and have a passion for youth work and helping young people grow."

Coach Aleex has been coaching for approximately 3 years. Alex will coach our 16U Boys, class of 2029.

Dominique James

Treasurer/Coach/

Board Member

"I enjoy the game of basketball, teaching the kids, and watching them become better as a team."

Dominique has 10 years of coaching experience. She has been with Forward Thinking since the start up. Here we are 6 years later. Because of her support and dedication to Forward Thinking, Dominique has been appointed Treasurer.

Jenna Wykle

Vice President of Basketball Operations/Coach/

Board Member

"Coaching is an opportunity to not just teach kids a game but to have an impression on who they are as people. I believe when you have a gift or talent that you should cultivate it and share it when the opportunity arises. Coaching has become that for me. I don’t know it all but what I do know, I love to pass along to help kids become the best they can be."

Coach Jenna has played the game of basketball her whole life and coached in various roles for the last 6 years. This will be her 3rd year with FTB coaching staff. Will coach our 15U Girls, class of 2029.

Tyrell Jefferson

Coach

" I love working with the youth. I love helping the youth become better versions of themselves. I love teaching stragies to overcome challenges. I enjoying teaching mental toughness when facing adversity! I love helping youth achieve there goals!"

Coach Rell has been coaching girls basketball for about 8 years and coaching youth football for 5 years. He is currently the Girls' Basketball  Assistant Varsity Coach at Minneapolis North High School. He will coach our 12U Boys class of 2032.

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