Anthony Oliver
Board Chair
Estimating/Senior Project Manager, Joiner Fire Sprinkler
Audra Smith
Chief Executive of Programming
Director of Women's Basketball Community Engagement, Auburn University
Brian Wilson
Vice Chair
Owner Guglhupf Bakery and Restaurant
Daryl Oliver
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer, Digital Fulcrum
Audra Smith
Monica Drake
Community Development Coordinator and Vice President, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Laurie Stroud-Franklin
Secretary
Owner/Publisher
The Christian Family Publication
Jeremy Duckworth
Treasurer
Chief Executive Officer, Central Alabama Redevelopment Alliance
Who We Are
Hope Sports Academy is committed to developing true student-athletes by blending elite sports training, academic support, and faith-based mentorship. We serve youth ages 7 & up, helping them grow in athletic skill, excel academically, and build strong moral character. Our programs go beyond the game—teaching discipline, leadership, teamwork, and perseverance—while grounding every experience in Christian values. We’re preparing the next generation to succeed not only on the field and in the classroom, but in life.
Our Core Values
Our Board
Humility
Athletes learn to put others first and value team success over personal glory. This attitude leads to serving others, mentoring peers, and inspiring the community through selflessness.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves." — Philippians 2:3
Perseverance
Facing challenges with resilience teaches athletes to never give up. Their determination inspires others to remain strong through life's hardships.
"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." — Hebrews 12:1-2
Obedience
Respect for rules, authority, and God builds discipline. Athletes who practice obedience set a positive example, creating order and unity in their teams and communities.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." — Proverbs 3:5-6
Excellence
Striving for excellences means giving your best in all things. This pursuit raises standards on and off the court, uplifting families, schools, and the wider community.
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." — Colossians 3:23
Audra Smith
Chief Executive of Programming
Vice President of Play4Kay
Laurie Stroud-Franklin
Secretary
Owner/Publisher, The Christian Family Publication
Jeremy Duckworth
Treasurer
Chief Executive Officer,
Central Alabama Redevelopment Alliance
Daryl L. Oliver Sr.
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer, Digital Fulcrum
Monica Drake
Director of Community Engagement, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Brian Wilson
Vice Chair,
Owner Guglhupf Bakery & Restaurant
Anthony Oliver
Board Chair
Estimating/Senior Project Manager, Joiner Fire Sprinkler
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower youth through skill development, mentorship, and faith-based guidance. Every athlete who walks through our doors is not just learning how to perform on the field; they’re learning how to lead, work as a team, and face challenges with resilience. We’re committed to helping them grow into well-rounded individuals who embody integrity, discipline, and perseverance.