About Us 

Glenn T. Ford Jr. is the Chairman and CEO of iDareU Academy, a premier athlete development organization based in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 2006, iDareU Academy celebrates its 20-year anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of elite football development, mentorship, and college placement.

Since its inception, iDareU Academy has successfully placed more than 400 student-athletes into college programs, collectively earning over $52 million in scholarship opportunities. The academy
proudly counts 24 NFL players among its alumni, including Minkah Fitzpatrick and A.J. Terrell.

Widely regarded as a “DB Guru,” Ford is known as an outstanding tactician, organizer, motivator, and leader whose disciplined approach consistently produces elite-level athletes.

In recognition of his community impact, Ford was awarded an official Proclamation from the City of Atlanta on June 20, 2016, honoring his commitment to the transformation of young lives.

Ford’s vision extends beyond the field, positioning iDareU Academy as a national model for long-term athlete development and life preparation.

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.574.8613​
Email: [email protected]

Christian Ford serves as Co-Chairman of Alumni Relations for iDareU Academy Inc. He is widely regarded as level-headed, persistent, and deeply committed to youth mentorship. As both a coach and leader, Christian possesses a rare ability to connect with individuals from all backgrounds. Coaching holds a special place in his heart, with a clear emphasis on developing not only athletes, but future leaders prepared for life beyond sports.​

Christian enjoyed a strong and accomplished playing career. He competed in the Georgia State Championship with Roswell High School, and the following year helped Marietta High School advance to the quarterfinals. His success earned him a scholarship to Georgia Southern University, joining what was then the highest-rated recruiting class in school history. After one year, Christian transferred to Iowa Central Community College, where he continued to elevate his game before earning an opportunity at Mississippi State University. At MSU, his speed and playmaking ability earned him the nickname “The Speedster from Atlanta,” and he also completed his Bachelor’s degree during his time there.​

Following the conclusion of his playing career, Christian transitioned seamlessly into coaching. He refined his craft with iDareU Academy, where his leadership and football acumen helped open the door to the collegiate coaching ranks. That journey led him to Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama, where he currently serves as a Graduate Assistant Coach working with the Wide Receivers.​

Christian’s continued commitment to mentorship, development, and relationship-building makes him a vital leader within the iDareU family and a trusted guide for athletes navigating the next stages of their personal and athletic growth.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.800.0456​
Email: [email protected]

Managing Director of Regional Operations, Infrastructure | KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools​

Wanda Smith serves as the Managing Director of Regional Operations, Infrastructure for KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools. In this role, she provides strategic leadership and operational oversight across Facilities, Custodial Services, Technology, and Events—ensuring the region’s campuses are safe, efficient, and grounded in KIPP’s commitment to excellence and equity.​

Wanda joined KIPP in 2019 as a Director of Operations, where she quickly became known for designing scalable systems that improved school operations, enhanced communication, and built bridges between teams. Today, she leads with a focus on people, process, and purpose—cultivating strong cross-functional collaboration and operational sustainability across the organization.​

Before joining KIPP, Wanda spent more than 20 years as an Executive Leader in Talent, Culture, and Operations within the financial industry, overseeing over 3,000 employees and multiple financial centers across the state of Georgia. During that time, she led large-scale initiatives in leadership coaching, employee engagement, and organizational development—earning recognition for developing high-performing teams and building cultures of excellence.​

A servant leader at heart, Wanda’s work extends beyond the walls of KIPP. She continues to serve her community as a Trustee and Financial Advisor at Dixie Hills First Baptist Church and through her lifelong commitment to sisterhood and service as a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.​

Wanda is a graduate of Mercer University and Yale University, where she deepened her expertise in organizational leadership, operational strategy, and public education systems.​

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”​
— Malcolm X​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.617.1009​
Email: [email protected]​

Tiffani C. Ford serves as the Secretary of the iDareU Board, supporting the organization’s mission to empower youth through education, mentorship and leadership development. ​

As an Educational Specialist in the Program for Exceptional Students Department, she brings professional expertise in student advocacy, academic support, and program compliance. Passionate about equity and opportunity, Tiffani is committed to helping young people reach their full potential. ​

She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Rho Rho Omega Chapter, serving as 2nd Vice President and Chairman of the annual Pink Ice Educational Ball, a signature scholarship initiative that advances educational access and achievement.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: (706) 570-6242​
Email: [email protected]

Shaquille “Shaq” Wiggins is a founding player and proud alumnus of iDareU Academy Inc., representing the standard of excellence upon which the program was built. Widely regarded as one of the greatest high school football players to ever emerge from the state of Georgia—and among the elite nationally—Shaq was ranked the No. 1 cornerback in Georgia in the Class of 2013.​

During his standout career at Sandy Creek High School, Shaq made an indelible impact both on and off the field. He helped lead the Patriots to a Georgia State Championship, shattered multiple school interception records, and became the first athlete in school history selected as an Under Armour All-American. In 2013, Shaq competed in the Under Armour All-American Game, where he was personally hand-picked by Deion Sanders as one of the most impactful players at the event—an honor that further validated his elite status.​

A highly regarded four-star recruit, Shaq signed with the University of Georgia, where he made an immediate impact as a true freshman starter in the defensive backfield. He later transferred to the University of Louisville, where he earned All-ACC honors in 2015, solidifying his reputation as a dominant, dependable defensive presence at the Power Five level.​

Shaq went on to build a professional football career across multiple leagues, including the AAF (Alliance of American Football)—led by Atlanta Falcons legend Michael Vick—and the XFL (Xtreme Football League). His journey reflects the core iDareU standard: discipline, elite talent, resilience, and relentless commitment to excellence.​

Today, Shaq Wiggins remains a powerful source of inspiration for his peers and for young athletes nationwide. His story is a testament to what is possible with the right guidance, unwavering work ethic, and belief in oneself—proof that opportunity follows preparation.​

Beyond football, Shaq has successfully expanded his influence into sports, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. He has cultivated a strong social media presence, launched a podcast platform, and founded his rising fashion brand AngelBoy, a label that embodies his journey, identity, and resilience.​

Shaq Wiggins is not just an alumnus—he is a living example of the iDareU legacy.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 678.923.1424​
Email: ​

Ashley Hernandez Jr. is a licensed architect, an ordained minister, visual artist, and musician. Ashley is known for his people-oriented leadership style. He brings a collaborative, solution-driven approach to every endeavor. His ability to align teams, manage complex processes, and focus on meaningful outcomes makes him a trusted advisor and partner.​
​
Ashley holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture from North Carolina State University. He is registered to practice in North Carolina, Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, and Tennessee. Deeply committed to professional service and advocacy, he is an active member of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and served as Past President of the NOMA Atlanta Chapter. His leadership experience also includes service with the American Institute of Architects Triangle Section, where he chaired the Diversity Committee, participation in Leadership Durham, and an appointment to the City of Durham Equal Opportunity Equity Assurance Board.​
 ​
Ashley is also a loving husband, father of three, stepfather of three, and father figure to many others. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated and has been involved with their programs promoting uplift and scholarship. He is a chapter officer as well in the National Organization of Buffalo Soldiers and Troppers motorcycle club where he rides his motorcycle responsibly while educating the public on the rich history of the 9th and 10th Calvary Buffalo Soldiers. Guided by a belief in aligning purpose, craft, and rhythm, Ashley approaches his professional, creative work and community service with intention and authenticity.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 919.625.8514​
Email: [email protected]

I am a U.S. History teacher at Clarkston High School with six years of experience in education and seven years of active involvement with the iDareU development program. As both an educator and a parent, I am deeply committed to long-term athlete development and holistic growth.

My son, Braylen, joined iDareU at the age of five, and since that time I have been fully engaged in his development journey. Our approach has consistently emphasized strong foundational skills, discipline, work ethic, and character- while maintaining a clear balance between academic excellence and athletic progression.

I place high value on structured development, intentional mentorship, and accountability. I firmly believe that preparing young athletes for sustained success requires more than athletic training alone; it demands an environment that reinforces personal responsibility, academic focus, and life skills that extend well beyond the field of play.

Contact Information:
Phone: 404.414.8575
Email: [email protected]

A seasoned communications and media relations professional, Seth Coleman, brings more than two decades of experience
leading strategic public relations, crisis communications, and digital media initiatives across education, government, nonprofit,
and legal sectors.

Currently serving as Director of Media Relations and Social Media for Atlanta Public Schools, he oversees district-wide media
strategy, social media engagement, and crisis response while managing and mentoring communications staff.
Known for exceptional writing and editing skills, Seth has crafted executive-level communications, press materials, and public
messaging that have shaped public perception and strengthened stakeholder trust.

He has extensive experience working with senior leadership, media outlets, and community partners, and has served as a
trusted spokesperson and media trainer in high-profile environments.

Additionally, he covered high school, college, and professional sports as a freelancer for the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Chop
Talk (Atlanta Braves magazine), and Morris Communications for more than two decades.

A graduate of Morehouse College with a degree in Communications, Seth combines journalistic rigor, strategic insight, and
professionalism to help organizations effectively tell their stories and achieve their goals.

He is married to Atlanta native Dr. Daphne G. Coleman and they have three now-grown children: Camryn, Cailyn, and Christian,
a member of the first group of iDareU athletes.

Contact Information:
Phone: 404.406.5570
Email: [email protected]

Robert Wilson serves as the Director of Athletics for Henry County Schools, where he provides visionary leadership and oversight for all middle and high school athletic programs across the district. A proud graduate of Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Mr. Wilson is a seasoned Athletic Administrator committed to promoting excellence, accountability, and equity in scholastic athletics.​

​

Since joining Henry County Schools, Mr. Wilson has been instrumental in implementing comprehensive systems of compliance and accountability, ensuring that all athletic programs operate with consistency, transparency, and adherence to district and state guidelines. His leadership emphasizes integrity, operational efficiency, and student-centered success, helping to elevate the standard of athletic administration throughout the district.​

​

Before assuming his current role, Mr. Wilson served as the Assistant Director of Athletics for Atlanta Public Schools, where he supported and supervised 11 high school athletic programs. Earlier in his career, he distinguished himself as the Athletic Director at Shiloh High School, earning recognition as Region Athletic Director of the Year and serving as Region President.​

​

Mr. Wilson is a Certified Master Athletic Administrator (CMAA), the highest level of certification offered by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). He has also served as a featured speaker at state-level conferences, sharing his expertise on athletic administration, leadership, and program management with peers across Georgia.​

​

Widely respected for his professionalism, vision, and dedication to developing both programs and people, Mr. Wilson continues to make a lasting impact on the landscape of interscholastic athletics. He is married to Marissa Wilson, and together they are the proud parents of four children.​

​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 770.685.5507​
Email: [email protected]​

M. Gene Toodle serves as a Board Member of iDareU Sports Academy, bringing more than 25 years of leadership and board
service experience across a wide range of nonprofit and community organizations.

He currently heads the sales team for the State of Georgia with Island Jon Vodka – North America, where he leads strategic
growth initiatives and develops key partnerships throughout the region. Gene is known for his natural ability to identify and
connect with key partners, paired with a strategic and logical approach to implementing successful campaigns.

His extensive board experience includes service with organizations such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), the
University of Georgia Football Lettermen’s Club, The High Aspirations Foundation, and many others committed to youth
development and community advancement.

Gene brings a strong professional business perspective to every organization he serves, with expertise in marketing,
fundraising, networking, and partnership development. His relationship-driven approach and results-oriented mindset have
helped support sustainable growth and long-term impact for numerous initiatives.

He is passionate about empowering young people and supporting programs that promote leadership, discipline, and
opportunity, and he is honored to contribute his experience and skills to the mission of iDareU Sports Academy.

Contact Information:
Phone: 404.838.3992
Email: [email protected]

Glenn T. Ford Jr. is the Chairman and CEO of iDareU Academy, a premier athlete development organization based in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 2006, iDareU Academy celebrates its 20-year anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of elite football development, mentorship, and college placement.

Since its inception, iDareU Academy has successfully placed more than 400 student-athletes into college programs, collectively earning over $52 million in scholarship opportunities. The academy
proudly counts 24 NFL players among its alumni, including Minkah Fitzpatrick and A.J. Terrell.

Widely regarded as a “DB Guru,” Ford is known as an outstanding tactician, organizer, motivator, and leader whose disciplined approach consistently produces elite-level athletes.

In recognition of his community impact, Ford was awarded an official Proclamation from the City of Atlanta on June 20, 2016, honoring his commitment to the transformation of young lives.

Ford’s vision extends beyond the field, positioning iDareU Academy as a national model for long-term athlete development and life preparation.

Donald Johnson Jr.  is the Operations Academy Director for iDareU Academy, brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion to the IDareU Program. A former standout athlete and accomplished coach, he graduated as one of the top defensive backs in the state of Georgia in 1991 and earned a football scholarship to Auburn University.

Following his playing career, Coach Johnson transitioned seamlessly into coaching, dedicating himself to mentoring young men both on and off the field. His mission extends beyond developing great football players—he is committed to helping young boys grow into responsible, disciplined, resilient young men who strive for excellence in all areas of life.

From 2004 to 2009, Coach Johnson returned to his alma mater, Carver High School in Columbus, Georgia, where he served as Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach. During his tenure, he helped lead Carver to its first State Championship in school history in 2007. He went on to coach at multiple levels, including middle school, high school, and college football.

In 2012, Coach Johnson coached defensive backs at Troup High School, helping the Tigers earn a second-place regional finish. In 2013, he was promoted to Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach. From 2018 to 2019, he served as Defensive Backs Coach and Special Teams Assistant at LaGrange College.

Coach Johnson is known for his dedication, clear communication, and ability to inspire confidence in his athletes. With a strong emphasis on skill development, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, he creates a positive and motivating environment that empowers players to reach their full potential—both on and off the field.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 706.580.4717​
Email: [email protected]​

​

Bob Johnson is the Path Forward Academy Director for iDareU Academy, The Paying Forward Plan is an initiative designed to allow iDareU Academy Inc. to realize the value of the tireless work, preparation, and development that our staff, coaches, and administrators have invested in each Student-Athlete throughout their time in the program.​

This plan provides the representative institution that the Student-Athlete and their family have selected to attend over the next four years an opportunity to “Pay FordWard” for the comprehensive development work already completed. ​

This includes athletic training, academic support, mentorship, exposure, and overall player readiness that positions the Student-Athlete for success at the collegiate level.​

Bob Johnson brings years of experience in contractual and relationship driven business adventures. ​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 706.577.8721​
Email: [email protected]​

Brianna Gloster is the Social Media Marketing Academy Director for iDareU Academy, bringing a results-driven, story-focused approach to digital marketing. She specializes in social media strategy, content creation, and campaign execution for youth-focused, athletic, and community-centered organizations.​

Her experience spans association marketing, nonprofit storytelling, and event-based campaigns, where she has led content planning, platform optimization, analytics reporting, and creative direction across multiple platforms. At iDareU, Brianna leads intentional storytelling and visual strategy that highlights mentorship, leadership, and impact through sport. Known for translating complex missions into clear, engaging narratives, she blends creativity with data-informed insights to create content that connects, performs, and supports long-term community growth.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.518.4417​
Email: [email protected] ​

Resty Beadles is the Academy Athletics Coordinator for iDareU Academy, Coach Resty Beadles is a highly respected offensive line coach with more than two decades of experience developing student-athletes both on and off the field. A native of southwest Atlanta, Coach Beadles brings deep roots in the community along with a passion for teaching, discipline, and leadership.​

Coach Beadles began his coaching career in 1998 at his alma mater, Westlake High School in Atlanta, Georgia, serving as a community coach. His early impact quickly opened doors throughout the metro Atlanta area, where he went on to coach at several prominent high schools, including Banneker, Hapeville, Mays, and Heritage High Schools. Throughout his career, he has been known for his ability to develop strong, disciplined offensive linemen and cohesive team units.​

Currently, Coach Beadles serves as an assistant coach for both football and basketball at East Coweta High School, where he has been a part of the coaching staff for the past three years. In addition to his role with the football program, he is the Head Coach of the Women’s Flag Football team, leading the program to a highly successful season and a State Final Four appearance, a testament to his leadership and adaptability as a coach.​
Coach Beadles’ coaching excellence has also been recognized at the all-star level, as he has served as an offensive coach for the Elite All-Star Games in 2016 and 2025.​

As a former standout student-athlete at the University of Georgia during the 1993–1996 era, Coach Beadles brings firsthand knowledge of high-level competition and player development. His experience, commitment to excellence, and dedication to mentoring young athletes continue to make a lasting impact across every program he serves.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.379.5144​
Email: [email protected]​

Coach Jordan Ford serves as the Running Backs Coach for iDareU Academy, bringing unmatched energy, passion, and authenticity to the position. A true embodiment of Atlanta, Georgia, Jordan’s confidence and presence instill belief in everyone around him—where excellence is expected and failure is never an option.​

A proud Atlanta native, Jordan has built an accomplished football résumé that continues to grow. His accolades include All-Region and All-State honors in high school, followed by earning First-Team All-American recognition at the junior college level. He began his collegiate career at Garden City Community College, where he established himself as a premier running back, before transferring to The University of Tulsa, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. Jordan completed his playing career at Georgia State University, returning home to represent his city at the Division I level.​

As Jordan continues to pursue his professional football career, he remains deeply committed to developing the next generation of running backs in the Atlanta Metro Area. His approach emphasizes discipline, confidence, accountability, and elite preparation—ensuring that the athletes he mentors are built for success both on and off the field.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.734.2781​
Email: [email protected]​

Coach TJ Rahming is the Wide Receiver Coach for iDareU Academy, ​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 678.882.9095​
Email: [email protected]​

​

Coach Ed Curney is the Middle Linebacker Coach for iDareU Academy, “COACH 2LOVE”​

is a former Division I football player, coach, and youth development leader who is passionate about empowering young athletes on and off the field through faith, discipline, and purpose. Guided by his relationship with God, Coach 2Love believes that sports are more than a game they are a powerful tool God uses to shape character, identity, and direction in life.​

Ed is the founder of Pain 2 Purpose, an organization dedicated to mentoring youth and families by using sports as a training ground for life. He teaches athletes that the lessons learned through competition work ethic, accountability, resilience, and leadership carry far beyond the field and into every area of life.​

Through coaching and mentorship, Coach 2Love emphasizes integrity, consistency, and servant leadership, challenging athletes to apply the discipline of sports to their faith, relationships, and purpose. His mission is to use athletics as a platform to glorify God and to help young people understand who they are, why they were created, and how to walk confidently in their calling.​

At iDareU, Coach 2Love is committed to creating transformative experiences that inspire youth to pursue excellence, trust God, and use the game as a foundation for a purpose-driven life.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.729.7959​
Email: [email protected]​

Coach Jaylin Boyd is a Defensive Back Coach with iDareU Academy, I am a former collegiate and professional football player with a strong background in athletics, leadership, and coaching. I graduated from Langston Hughes High School in 2014, where I was a two-time regional champion, establishing a foundation of competitive excellence early in my career.​

I continued my athletic and academic journey at Albany State University, where I was a three-year starter and earned All-Conference honors as a defensive back. I also achieved academic distinction as a member of the Dean’s List and graduated in 2019. During my collegiate career, I contributed to two regional championship teams.​

Professionally, I played for the Saltillo Dinos of LFA Mexico, gaining international experience at the professional level.​
Following my playing career, I transitioned into coaching. In 2024, I coached in the UTN All-American Champions Game and later joined Mundy Mill High School, where I helped develop talent that resulted in six All-Region players.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 678.674.0437​
Email: [email protected]​

Coach Josh Holsey is the Defensive Backs Coach for iDareU Academy,​

With a foundation built at the highest levels of football, Joshua Holsey brings elite playing experience and proven coaching success to athlete development.​
​
A former standout at Auburn University, Joshua Holsey competed in the SEC, facing top-tier collegiate talent while developing the discipline, technique, and mindset required to perform at an elite level. His performance and work ethic led to him being selected in the 7th Round of the NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins, fulfilling a lifelong goal of reaching the professional ranks.​
​
Holsey went on to play four seasons in the NFL, gaining firsthand experience in professional training standards, game preparation, recovery, and performance optimization. Competing at the highest level gave him a deep understanding of what it truly takes to succeed — physically, mentally, and professionally.​
​
Following his playing career, Holsey transitioned into coaching, where his impact was immediate. As a high school coach for two years, he helped develop young athletes both on and off the field, culminating in a State Championship in 2022. His ability to translate elite-level knowledge into practical, results-driven coaching sets him apart.​
​
Today, Joshua Holsey applies his experience as a former SEC athlete, NFL player, and championship-winning coach to help athletes maximize their potential. His training philosophy emphasizes discipline, fundamentals, speed, strength, and mindset, preparing athletes to compete at the next level.​

Contact Information:​
Phone: 404.405.5106​
Email: [email protected]​