MEET OUR COACHES
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
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 ERIC
Coach Eric has dedicated himself to the game of basketball, bringing years of coaching experience to the court including 1 year with the 5th grade boys at Brookfield Christian School, 6 years with 3rd-6th graders at CBC Basketball, and 1 year with Upward at Springfield Church. These experiences have shaped him into a coach who understands the importance of guiding young players both in their athletic development and personal growth.
Be a Deshawn and lift up a stranger!
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.