Wes Trammell - Program Director

Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from Grand Valley State University

Master of Science in Communications from Grand Valley University

Certified Sports Psychology Coach

Wes is the founder and director of The Chosen Academy. He grew up playing basketball, football, baseball, and track. He ultimately decided to focus on basketball. After playing 4 years of varsity ball at Jenison High School, Wes earned a scholarship to play at Grand Valley.

The Chosen Academy was created because he understands that mental health is vital  part of performing on the court, and more importantly life. 

Currently, Wes works in Digital Marketing with Steelcase.

" I believe in TCA because it is important for athletes to have a safe space to talk about their struggles. Athletes are expected to be "mentally tough", so we put on this false brovado and pretend that everything is okay. Plus, it is always fun teaching the game of basketball and seeing kids improve their skills."

Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from Grand Valley State University

Master of Science in Sports Administration from Arkansas State University

Josh was born and raised in Detroit. Basketball has always been his passion. He was a 4 year varsity performer in High School. He played at Notre Dame Prep High School in the Catholic School League, which is one of the toughest conferences in the state of Michigan.

After high school, Josh went on to play college ball at Rochester College and Grand Valley State University. He and Wes were teammates and roommates for 2 years.

Currently, Josh works in the athletic department at Davenport as a Compliance & Academic Coordinator. He is very much involved in the lives of student athletes at the collegiate level. Josh's athletic and professional experience will make him a huge asset to TCA.

Josh's role with TCA will be helping build the skill development side of things. He'll also have his hands in the events that we will be doing in the city.

 "I believe in TCA because I believe in the hearts of the people behind it. No one wants to become famous, no one is money hungry, everyone just wants to help the next generation of athletes to be as successful in life as they can be. 

I think TCA is important because there is a heavy emphasis on a players skill development without the emphasises of mental health development. TCA exists to fill the gap and teach athletes how to take care of their mental health on top of developing their physical skills. Many athletes don't realize that what goes on in your brain can derail you and this is why I think TCA is important. "

Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from Davenport University

Master of Social Work from Michigan State University

Nikki is a former two sport athlete, playing basketball and rugby at Davenport Univeristy. She understands how the busyness of a student athlete can take it's toll on their mental health. 

After earning a Master of Social Work from Michigan State, Nikki currently works for Kentwood Public Schools as a School Social Worker. She has a great passion for the youth and has a knack for connecting with youth of all backgrounds. 

Nikki will use her educational background to lead our group conversations around different mental health topics. 

 "I believe in TCA because of our mission and the relationship focused individuals who are apart of this organization. Each of us have our own journeys and experiences growing up as athletes and we are able to use our own stories to connect with the youth on a personal level because we can relate.

I think TCA is important so that athletes can grow as individuals on and off the court. TCA will help them understand that their mental health plays a huge role in physical health and how they think, feel, and perform daily. It’s important for athletes to gain the resources and exercises to do when everyday life stressors become too much but to also understand they are not alone in mental health struggles. We are all in this together." 

Bachelor of Social Work from Northern Michigan University

Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University

Chris grew up in Montreal, Canada where he was a standout athlete. He later went on to play basketball at Northern Michigan Univeristy (Division II), competing in the GLIAC. 

Currently, Chris works as a Probation Officer in Kent County. He has over 10 years working with inner city youth, helping them get on the right track.

Chris also serves as the girls freshman coach at Northview High School. He created a basketball skills training service called One Five Basketball Amplified, where he works with student athletes in the Northview area.

With TCA, Chris will help lead the skills training portion of the program. He will also be one of the facilitators during our group discussions around mental health topics.  

 “I believe in TCA because the values and mission perfectly align with mine and those of Onefive Basketball Amplified. What makes it even more exciting is the individuals involved have a shared vision and desire to impact the lives of the youth.

This venture is important because it provides an opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. I also know that if it wasn’t for certain individuals in my life that helped, mentored and encouraged me along my journey, I would not be where am I today. If i can be that for someone, as we incorporate the game of basketball, it’s a win win situation.”