COACH DEONTE
Coach Deonte Tatum is the visionary founder of Above and Beyond the Playground, a pioneering educational and athletic initiative catering to elementary, middle, high school, and early college students in Milwaukee, established in 2015. He firmly believes that by empowering others, they, in turn, contribute positively to their community, creating a powerful ripple effect evident in the transformative impact on the lives of the young athletes served by his organization.
Get better everyday! Live without Regrets! Nothing is impossible to him that believes!
COACH MERRIWEATHER
Coach Mikkal Merriweather has a passion for youth mentorship and basketball. At Heritage Christian High. School, he played varsity basketball, baseball, and soccer, and is currently attending Oral Roberts University. As a teacher, Coach Merriweather knows how to draw out a student's potential, and he is able to utilize that mentality toward motivating players on the court.
In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path
COACH TRACY
Coach Tracy is a seasoned basketball player and coach with extensive experience in both JUCO and NAIA levels. With a remarkable 13 years of coaching, Coach Tracy has nurtured talent from grade school to AAU levels, notably guiding Lakeside Lady Scholars Travel AAU Girls Basketball to produce several Division 1 players during her four-year tenure.
Life is short, so love what you do
MEET OUR COACHES
COACH QUINCY
Introducing Coach Quincy, a Milwaukee native with roots in Riverside and the Milwaukee School of Languages. Hailing from 48th and Center, Quincy's journey reflects hard work and determination, transitioning from teaching and coaching Elementary & Middle school basketball at 53rd Street School to his current role with the US Postal Service.
Adversity builds character
COACH DAMAR
Coach Damar was born and raised in Milwaukee, where he was introduced to basketball at age six. A three-sport athlete at Rufus King High School, he also developed his game through the ABP program. He went on to play basketball and run track at Cardinal Stritch University before transferring to Olive Harvey College, where he continued playing and made the Dean’s List. Coach Damar is passionate about giving back and guiding players who are on the same journey he once took.
"Success is not a accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing." - Pelé
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COACH WRIGHT
Coach Deon Wright brings a wealth of experience and passion to the court, having coached a feeder program for Alexander High School in Georgia for 3 years, as well as middle school boys at St. Marcus Lutheran. He is a self-driven leader who always looks for ways to improve. He’s passionate about fulfilling God’s purpose, serving others, and growing in life.
His goal is to inspire players and create a positive atmosphere.
When you’re willing to do what it takes, nothing else matter. Bless Up!
COACH DAESHAWN
He is a dedicated worker on and off the court. He played basketball at the junior college and four-year college levels. With a passion for giving back, he enjoys teaching the game to kids who share his love for sports, knowing it offers valuable life lessons. Currently finishing his accounting degree, he continues to pursue growth in all areas of life. He joined ABP Athletics to give back and help players build a strong foundation through the game of basketball.
Be comfortable being uncomfortable
COACH MONTRELL
He excelled as a basketball player at Riverland Community College, where he led in scoring for two years and finished with nearly 900 points. His success earned him a scholarship to Kentucky State University, where he helped elevate the team from last place to a top 5 program while scoring close to 700 points in just over two years. Recognized among the NBPA Top 50 as a junior and graduating with honors, he brings both high-level playing experience and proven success to his work with athletes.
Life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it.
