Elite Coaches & Instructors

  • Kelsey Stuart, Director

    M.A. in English, National University

    B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations, Fresno State University

    Professional Development Coordinator Adjunct Professor/Moorpark College

    With over two decades in education, Kelsey Stuart has worked in elementary through collegiate classrooms. She began her educational training serving as an after school coordinator and substitute teacher for Fresno Unified School District. working part-time as an aspiring journalist, she has over 200 published news stories from the Fresno and Ventura County area.

    Kelsey completed her Master’s in English and accepted a position as lead journalism instructor at Moorpark College. She facilitated the student newspaper, the Moorpark Reporter, and served as the Distance Education Coordinator/POCR Lead for the campus. Her uniquely designed Journalism courses have been recognized at the state level and badged for high marks of equity and accessibility.

    Having married a collegiate athlete and current collegiate football coach, Kelsey has always happily been involved with Moorpark Athletics. In 2015 she launched the MC Spirit program, as well as the CLU Cheer Program, and coached college cheer for five years. During that time she collaborated with the football team to lead growth mindset workshops on instilling academic confidence in athletes, was an academic trainer for young athletes at Oaks Christian High School and a tutor at the Writing Center at Moorpark College. Kelsey has pooled her background as a tutor, collegiate instructor, and a mother of five young athletes to design a curriculum that offers engaging lessons, interactive assessments, and guaranteed retention.

  • Michael Stuart, Co-Director

    M.S in Kinesiology, M.A. in Christian Leadership

    Moorpark College Head Football Coach

    Starting his 16th year in collegiate coaching, after graduating from a D1 football scholarship, Mike Stuart has spent the better part of two decades rallying behind student athletes. As one of the first coaches in his league to implement an Academic Game plan, one that instills time managment tools, study skills, and professional work ethic development, he has been passionate about helping his players succeed on and off the field since day 1. The Athletes Academy is his way of helping to ensure academic and athletic confidence in the next generation of student athletes! He uses his incredible background in physical training, agility drills, strength and conditioning workouts to craft a field ready game plan for active learners to fully engage in academics with an eager confidence.

  • Emily Macasieb, Academic Coordinator & Program Lead, Math Instructor

    M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, Cal Lutheran University

    Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, California Lutheran University

    B.A. in Liberal Studies in Education with a minor in Ethnic Studies, California Lutheran University 

    Within her five years of teaching experience in Ventura County schools, Emily Macasieb has distinguished herself as a teacher by creating engaging, student-centered lessons that spark curiosity. Having grown up playing competitive water polo, Emily understands firsthand the dedication, resilience, and time management needed to excel as both a student and an athlete. She is dedicated to guiding young athletes in finding that balance and fostering skills that will serve them in their academic pursuits, sports careers, and life

  • Cori Ohl, English Instructor

    B.A. in Education, Cal State Chico

    Oaks Christian High School English Teacher

    Cori Ohl is well-known for her expertise in English Grammar, as a beloved instructor for years at Oaks Christian High School, the mother of seven, has refined the art of splicing sentences, encouraging students to write confidently and read voraciously. A mother to exceptional children, one of which plays professional baseball, she is very familiar with an athletes schedule and need to prioritize time wisely in order to achieve exceptional results! She looks forward to working with her student athletes this year in both elementary, middle and high school grades at Elite Athletes Academy.

  • Laurie Gourley, American Government/Civics & Composition Instructor

    Meet Laurie Gourley, a highly respected educator with over three decades of experience dedicated to academic excellence and student development. She serves as the American Government & Civics Instructor as well as Composition Instructor at Elite Athletes Academy, where she inspires students to become thoughtful writers, informed citizens, and confident communicators.

    Laurie previously served as Director of the esteemed Living Oaks Middle School Alliance for 15 years, where she led with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to student success. Her leadership helped shape a strong academic foundation for countless students, emphasizing critical thinking, character development, and community engagement.

    Bringing a wealth of knowledge and passion into the classroom, Laurie creates engaging, discussion-driven learning environments that connect civic understanding with real-world relevance. Her approach to composition strengthens students’ ability to express ideas clearly and effectively, while her civics instruction empowers them to understand their role in society. Laurie’s dedication, experience, and enthusiasm make her an invaluable mentor and guide for the next generation of leaders.

  • Rhys Kelly, EAA Athletic Coordinator

  • Delaney Diaz, EAA Athletic Director

    M.S. in Sports Management, CLU

    B.A. Psychology, minor in Human Development

    Delaney Diaz is the Head Coach of the Moorpark College Softball Team and also serves as the Athletic Director at Elite Sports Academy. She led Moorpark to an undefeated conference championship in the 2023–2024 season and continues to help her players move on to NCAA Division I, II, and III colleges across the country.

    In addition to coaching, Delaney is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for both the Women’s Softball and Women’s Volleyball teams at Moorpark College. She has also worked as a HIIT trainer at UFC Gym for one year, focusing on strength, endurance, and high-energy group workouts.

    Last year, Delaney was one of the PE teachers placed at Tierra Linda Elementary School through the YAC Foundation, where she helps lead and oversee the school’s physical education program, promoting healthy habits and active lifestyles for young students.

    She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a minor in Human Development, from the University of California, Davis, where she played five years for the Varsity Softball Team and served as team captain. She also worked as a Team Ambassador for SAAC (student-athlete association committee) supporting mental health and leadership development.

    Delaney completed her Master’s degree in Sports Management at California Lutheran University, with a focus on Sports Agency and Athletic Directing in December 2025.

    She has also coached at UC Davis Softball CampsUSA Softball Camps, and served as Head Strength Coach at YAC Sports Academy. Delaney is known for creating a strong, positive environment where athletes at all levels can build skills, confidence, and character.

    As Athletic Director at Elite Sports Academy, she brings a wide range of experience, a passion for coaching, and a clear vision for helping athletes succeed on and off the field.

  • Cole Mills, Young Athletes Athletic Coordinator

    A.A Degree in progress, Moorpark College

    Meet Cole Mills, a passionate and driven leader dedicated to inspiring the next generation of athletes. A former varsity basketball and football player at Newbury Park High School, Cole brings firsthand experience, discipline, and a love for sports into everything he does.

    Beyond athletics, Cole serves as a manager at Coaches Ice Cream, where his leadership and teamwork continue to shine. He is also deeply involved in his community as a youth leader at Monte Vista Church, mentoring both middle school and high school students and helping guide them through personal and spiritual growth.

    Cole actively works with local youth sports leagues, encouraging positive sportsmanship, teamwork, and confidence in young athletes. As the Young Athletes Athletic Coordinator, he creates a fun, inclusive, and engaging environment where children feel supported and motivated. Through playful yet purposeful activities, he challenges athletes in grades 1–3 to build skills, embrace competition, and grow in confidence—both on and off the field.

  • DJ Diaz, EAA Athletic & Academic Coach

    B.A. in Sports Management | NASM Certified Personal Trainer | A.S. in Exercise Science, Business Management & Social Behavioral Sciences | CPR & First Aid Certified

    DJ Diaz is a coach, mentor, and NASM Certified Personal Trainer with a strong foundation in leadership and athletic development. A former collegiate defensive lineman, DJ brings firsthand experience in discipline, teamwork, and performance training to every environment he leads.

    With years of experience coaching youth athletes across multiple age groups, DJ focuses on developing strong fundamentals, work ethic, and confidence through structured training and positive leadership. His background in Sports Management and Exercise Science allows him to approach coaching with intention. Balancing physical development with accountability, communication, and character growth.

    DJ is passionate about leading young athletes by example, creating high-energy environments built on trust and consistency, and helping athletes develop habits that translate beyond sports into everyday life.

  • Nicole Cardinale, Young Athletes Instructor/ Heart of Athlete Lead Instructor

    M.A. in Education, Counseling, Point Loma Nazarene

    B.S. in Psychology, CSU Channel Islands

    Nicole Cardinale is an energetic and dedicated educator with a passion for supporting young learners through movement, play, positive mentorship, and academic excellence.

    She is experienced working with students in grades 1–3, with a strong focus on helping young athletes build confidence, teamwork, and foundational skills in a supportive and engaging environment.

    Cardinale combines her background in psychology and school counseling with hands-on teaching experience to promote social-emotional growth, communication, and sportsmanship.

    Skilled in creating fun, structured activities that encourage participation, skill development, and healthy habits. She is best known for building strong relationships with students and families, fostering a sense of belonging, and supporting each child’s individual needs.

  • Gina Diggs, Nutritionist & Medieval Times

    Meet Gina Diggs, a seasoned educator and certified nutritionist with over two decades of instructional experience across a variety of subjects. With a passion for making learning both practical and engaging, Gina brings a unique blend of classroom expertise and real-world application to Elite Athletes Academy.

    At the Academy, Gina is leading the development of an innovative Nutrition Literacy course that reimagines traditional ELA by integrating reading, writing, and communication skills with meaningful lessons in nutrition and healthy living. Her approach helps students connect academic concepts to everyday choices, building both knowledge and lifelong habits.

    In addition, Gina serves as the Medieval Times instructor, where she transforms complex history into exciting, hands-on experiences. By combining her knowledge of nutrition and history, she creates unique lessons and interactive labs that capture student interest and promote full engagement. Known for her dynamic teaching style, Gina inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence in every student she teaches.