At Weber State University, I found a way to merge my passion for athletics with my commitment to academics, excelling in both football and track and field. Graduating with a degree in business management and Technical Sales, I maintained a strong GPA and earned a place on the honor roll. Those years instilled in me the values of discipline and perseverance, lessons that have shaped my career and my life.

The pinnacle of my athletic journey came when I was drafted as the 3rd pick by the legendary Bill Walsh for the five-time Super Bowl champion San Francisco 49ers. My five years in the NFL, surrounded by elite talent and learning from the best coaches in the game, ignited a fire within me. I gained invaluable insights into leadership, resilience, and the transformative power of teamwork.

As my playing days came to an end due to injuries, I seamlessly transitioned into the corporate world as an executive for Armor Sports. However, my true calling emerged: to inspire, mentor, and coach young athletes to reach their full potential. Inspired by the coaches who shaped my journey, I channeled my passion for entrepreneurship and personal growth into writing books like If You Believe, You Can Achieve and You Are Somebody: Only You Can Stop You. I earned my MBA from the John Sperling School of Business and founded multiple businesses all while embracing my roles as a husband and father with the same enthusiasm I brought to the field.

In 2016, I founded Illinois Game Time with a clear mission: to inspire and mentor young athletes to reach for the stars. While only a select few will make it to the NBA or WNBA, I believe every young person has the potential for greatness in their own unique way. Whether it’s becoming a leader in their community, excelling in their careers, or being a loving parent, the possibilities are limitless.

At Illinois Game Time, I pour my heart and soul into nurturing the next generation. I strive to create an environment where every athlete feels valued and empowered. With each practice and games, my goal is to help them become better mentally and physically than they were yesterday.

Success isn’t just about points scored or games won; it’s about personal growth, resilience, and character-building. I am filled with pride and motivation as I watch my players transform. They inspire me, and I see reflections of my own journey in them. Every success story reinforces my commitment to building a legacy that transcends the court one where hard work, perseverance, and teamwork create not just great athletes, but incredible individuals.

My journey is a testament to the belief that every dream is worth pursuing. With unwavering dedication, faith, and a touch of luck, I am here to guide the next generation of athletes, inspiring them to soar to new heights. 

 

Currently a sophomore at Lake Forest College, Alyssa is double majoring in early elementary education and sociology and anthropology. She believes in the transformative power of education and sports as catalysts for personal growth and community impact.

On the court, Alyssa shines as a post player for the Lake Forest College women’s basketball team. Her love for the game is matched by her dedication to empowering younger athletes, a passion that drives her academic and career goals.

Alyssa aspires to earn a master’s degree in early elementary education and become a first or second-grade teacher, fueled by her belief that every child deserves a champion to guide them toward success.

With the support of her loving family and cherished pets, Alyssa’s journey is characterized by resilience and tenacity. She faces every challenge with determination, believing that hard work and perseverance can make anything possible.

As an assistant coach with Illinois Game Time Basketball, Alyssa inspires young athletes by teaching not only technical skills but also invaluable lessons in teamwork, resilience, and self-belief.

Alyssa Jones embodies the spirit of excellence and determination, both on and off the court. Her commitment to personal and collective success makes her a true leader within the Illinois Game Time Basketball program, motivating those around her to reach new heights of achievement and fulfillment.

He brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to player growth. His primary focus is on providing individualized mentorship grounded in analytics and the core values of Illinois Game Time.

Joseph is a close friend of Coach Parker, and their journey intertwines with sports, education, and service. They shared gridiron battles and training sessions at Weber State and bonded beyond the field. Following their athletic endeavors, both pursued advanced degrees. Additionally, Joseph served a military deployment in Iraq from 2003 to 2004 and dedicated two years as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1994 to 1996.

Joseph’s diverse background, encompassing sports, education, service, and international experiences, is a cornerstone in fulfilling Coach Parker’s vision for IGT. His unique perspective, shaped by a blend of sportsmanship, academic rigor, and service ethos, inspires him to dedicate himself to the holistic development of players within the program, fostering not just skilled athletes but also future leaders.

In 2024, Jaden interned at Illinois Game Time, which allowed him to showcase his skills as a graphic designer for our program and athletes. In addition to his work with IGT, Jaden independently launched Athletic Edge Graphic Studios, where he collaborates with collegiate and professional athletes on various custom projects to enhance their social media platforms and brand exposure. Through continued innovation, Athletic Edge Graphic Studios has become the cornerstone for graphic design edits within the sports arena.