SALISBURY — Next Generation Academy, a youth sports nonprofit based in Salisbury, has been selected as a recipient of the Bill Belichick Foundation Grant.

The foundation, led by the former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick, provides grants of $10,000 to organizations across the country that are dedicated to fostering athletic development, leadership and education. The grant serves as national recognition for Next Generation Academy’s commitment to empowering local youth and building a brighter future for Rowan County. 

The mission of Next Generation Academy is to “empower Rowan County students by modeling academic and athletic excellence, strong leadership, and a lifestyle of faith and wellness.”

The Academy serves students ages 5 through 14 at its home location on the campus of Catawba College, where young athletes engage in programs that combine sports training with academic support, character development, and mentorship rooted in faith-based principles. 

This campaign is led by a trio of local sports figures who understand the importance of giving back to the community.

Salisbury native and former NFL running back Romar Morris and his teammate John Knox — who had a professional football career in Sweden and Kevin “K.P.” Parks, Rowan County’s all-time leading rusher — brought their experience and passion to the academy. Together, they aim to provide opportunities for local youth beyond the field, emphasizing life skills, education and faith-based mentorship. 

Program Director Chelsea Morris, a registered nurse and former school teacher, plays a pivotal role in guiding the academy’s mission. With her background in both health and education, Chelsea brings a holistic approach to youth development.

“Our goal is not just to develop athletes but to cultivate well-rounded individuals who excel in academics, leadership, health and strong moral values,” she said. 

Receiving the Bill Belichick Foundation Grant is a significant milestone for Next Generation Academy. “This is a national-level award, and we applied with high expectations because we believe in our work,” Morris said. “We are incredibly thankful to the Bill Belichick Foundation for recognizing our efforts and allowing us to expand our impact within the community. This grant will allow us to enhance our programs, provide more resources for our student-athletes, and reach even more young people in Rowan County.” 

The Bill Belichick Foundation is known for supporting organizations that embody its core values of teamwork, leadership and perseverance. By awarding this grant to Next Generation Academy, the foundation has acknowledged the academy’s efforts in using sports as a vehicle for positive change in the lives of local youth. The funding will improve facilities, expand programming and provide scholarships for students who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities.

As Next Generation Academy continues to serve the youth of Rowan County, this grant will fuel their mission of shaping the next generation of leaders, scholars and athletes through a foundation of academic excellence, athletic development and faith-based mentorship. 

The academy is excited about what lies ahead and is committed to using this grant to deepen its impact.

“This is just the beginning,” Knox said. “With the support of the Bill Belichick Foundation, we’re more determined than ever to help our students reach their full potential and build a stronger, healthier community.”