2026 Training Session Schedule to be released soon!
Where Youth Dream Bigger and Their Star Power Comes Alive
- shaping champions in sport and in life through growth, grit, and positive mentorship.
About Born Stars Inc
Our Mission
Born Stars Youth Athletic Training is a not-for-profit organization that empowers young men ages 10–16 to build strong character, positive attitudes, and essential life skills through sports and mentorship. We believe every child understands what it means to be an athlete—teamwork, dedication, passion—and we teach them how to carry those principles into everyday life. Through structure, guidance, and genuine connection, we help youth channel their love of sport into confidence, leadership, and lifelong success.
Our Vision
To inspire meaningful growth in youth by creating structured, engaging, and fun sports-based experiences that build character and prepare them for life—on and off the field.
Our Core Values
At Born Stars Inc, we believe:
- Every child is born to be a star, with unique potential ready to shine.
- Mentorship matters most when it’s consistent, community-centered, and grounded in positive, enjoyable experiences.
- A positive mindset has the power to change a young person’s life, regardless of what they face.
- Respect is non-negotiable—tolerating harmful or disrespectful behavior hurts kids and communities.
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The born Stars story
Born Stars Inc. officially launched on May 5, 2016, but its vision took root years earlier. It began as a brotherhood centered on football, mentorship, and the profound impact of strong male role models in the founders' lives.
Coaches Mel, Elliott, and Marvin played semi-professional football together, guided by Coach Prentice Cox, their Defensive Coordinator. Football shaped their identities—not just as athletes, but as men. The structure, discipline, accountability, and support they received from their coaches became the foundation they were determined to pass on.
Their connection to the community ran deep. Cox, Mel, and Marvin were proud alumni of Tilden High School, while Elliott had long been a part of the community through Brooklyn flag football. They embraced the opportunity to give back by supporting the Tilden football program, coaching the Brooklyn Falcons and Cowboys youth teams, and stepping in wherever young athletes needed guidance.
What began as volunteering soon transformed into a shared mission not just among the four of them but also with the help of so many of their friends such as Coach Blaize, Coach Russo, Coach Zo, Coach Chester and mentors like Coach Eric Waterman and Coach Peter Waterman who volunteer their time and resources to support this movement. They all witnessed the power of sports in shaping young lives when paired with positive leadership and felt compelled to take the next step, turning their influence into something structured. That moment came when Coach Mel was invited to lead an after-school program for boys ages 10–17 at Winthrop High School. With the support and passion of Cox, Elliott, and Marvin, Born Stars Inc. was officially born on May 5, 2016. Years of thoughtful conversations became reality.
As the program flourished, so did its mission. Born Stars transcended its initial football focus; today, it encompasses all sports through training that builds discipline, boosts confidence, and ignites a desire for personal growth. The aim is not only to develop better athletes but to cultivate stronger young men who recognize their potential in all aspects of life.
Born Stars Inc. isn't just a program; it's a legacy rooted in mentorship, discipline, and the belief that every young athlete carries greatness within them—they need the proper guidance to unleash it.
As a not-for-profit organization funded primarily by its own coaches' pockets, Born Stars Inc. stands as a true testament to giving back, investing in our youth, and strengthening the communities we serve.
the coaches
Coach Mel
Coach Mel
Coach Mel
Coach Jamel “Mel” Lewis is a proud graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, where he made his mark as a standout athlete, finishing his collegiate career ranked #10 all-time in career receptions. His unwavering dedication, strong work ethic, and remarkable leadership on the field have naturally transitioned into his impactful co
Coach Jamel “Mel” Lewis is a proud graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, where he made his mark as a standout athlete, finishing his collegiate career ranked #10 all-time in career receptions. His unwavering dedication, strong work ethic, and remarkable leadership on the field have naturally transitioned into his impactful coaching and mentoring journey.
Throughout his life, Coach Mel has served as a steadfast and influential mentor to countless young men. His unique ability to connect, guide, and inspire has established him as a respected leader in both athletics and the community. He embodies a calm presence, a strong moral compass, and an unwavering commitment to helping young athletes strive to be the best versions of themselves.
Coach Mel’s coaching accomplishments include being part of the state championship coaching staff at Maloney High School, where his extensive football knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and passion for player development played a vital role in the program’s success.
At Born Stars Inc., Coach Mel continues to pour his experience, heart, and mentorship into every athlete he encounters. He motivates young men to embrace discipline, hard work, and accountability—both on and off the field—ensuring they evolve not just as athletes but also as leaders and future role models.
Coach Cox
Coach Mel
Coach Mel
Coach Prentice Cox has been an inspiring football coach and mentor since 1998, guiding and developing athletes at every level—from youth leagues to high school programs and semi-professional teams. With over two decades of experience, he is celebrated for building disciplined, high-performing football players while shaping well-rounded yo
Coach Prentice Cox has been an inspiring football coach and mentor since 1998, guiding and developing athletes at every level—from youth leagues to high school programs and semi-professional teams. With over two decades of experience, he is celebrated for building disciplined, high-performing football players while shaping well-rounded young men who thrive beyond the game.
As a proud quadriplegic athlete and a member of the groundbreaking Quad Gods, an adaptive athletics and para-eSports team, Coach Cox embodies resilience, strength, and determination, serving as a powerful role model for every young man he mentors.
His influence extends well beyond the field. Coach Cox is committed to instilling character, accountability, confidence, and perseverance in every athlete he encounters. His philosophy revolves around empowering young men to realize their full potential—not just as athletes, but as leaders in their schools, homes, and communities.
A true teacher of the sport, Coach Cox conveys a deep love for the game, a remarkable gift for player development, and an unwavering belief in the greatness within every individual. His journey inspires athletes to push their limits, embrace discipline, and grow into outstanding members of society.
Coach Marvin
Coach Elliott
Coach Elliott
Coach Marvin Plaisimond is the youngest member of the Born Stars coaching team, yet his impact, leadership, and presence resonate far beyond his years. A former athlete who was once coached and mentored by Coach Cox, Coach Mel, and Coach Elliott. Marvin embodies the spirit of mentorship, nurturing the next generation with the love, discip
Coach Marvin Plaisimond is the youngest member of the Born Stars coaching team, yet his impact, leadership, and presence resonate far beyond his years. A former athlete who was once coached and mentored by Coach Cox, Coach Mel, and Coach Elliott. Marvin embodies the spirit of mentorship, nurturing the next generation with the love, discipline, and guidance he once received.
His natural talent for connecting with young athletes shines through in his energy, relatability, and genuine care, inspiring them to push past their limits, believe in themselves, and strive for greatness. This unique ability makes him one of the most influential voices in the program.
A true leader both on and off the field, Coach Marvin has played and coached football at every level—from youth leagues to semi-professional. His consistent role as team captain is a testament to his strong character, presence, and ability to lead by example.
At Born Stars Inc., Coach Marvin brings unwavering passion and commitment, helping young men grow not only as athletes but also as individuals. His journey from mentee to mentor stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of guidance and support.
Coach Elliott
Coach Elliott
Coach Elliott
Coach Elliott Earle embodies a lifelong passion for motivating and inspiring youth through the transformative power of sports, particularly football, which has profoundly influenced his life. From his early days in youth leagues to adulthood playing semi-professionally, football has been more than a sport for Elliott; it has served as a
Coach Elliott Earle embodies a lifelong passion for motivating and inspiring youth through the transformative power of sports, particularly football, which has profoundly influenced his life. From his early days in youth leagues to adulthood playing semi-professionally, football has been more than a sport for Elliott; it has served as a bridge to his community, a powerful mentorship tool, and a guiding force for young men seeking brighter futures.
Elliott harnesses the game to forge meaningful relationships, impart essential life lessons, and create growth opportunities. His innate gift for uplifting, encouraging, and challenging young athletes has made him a respected leader both on the field and in the community.
His unwavering dedication to leadership has opened doors for him to guide organizations, develop impactful programs, and stand as a pillar in the communities he loves. Whether coaching, organizing, or mentoring, Elliott infuses everything he does with passion, purpose, and heart.
At Born Stars Inc., Coach Elliott persists in his mission to help young men discover their potential, build confidence, and appreciate the value of hard work and character. His vision is clear: to use sports as a foundation for shaping leaders, strengthening communities, and inspiring the next generation.
Born Stars Academy
Born Stars Academy, led by Coach Mel, is creating a powerful impact across Connecticut. With Coach Mel’s experience as a standout collegiate athlete and championship-winning coach, the Academy provides young athletes with high-level training, mentorship, and character development.
