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.

  • 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 Camps, USA 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.

  • Selin & Josue Gasa, EAA Science Team

    CEO, MakerStudio

    Selin and Josue (Oue) are the husband-and-wife team behind MakerStudio, a creative enrichment business dedicated to providing meaningful experiences that spark imagination and inspire students to explore, create, build, discover, and grow through hands-on learning. Their journey began in 2014 with a converted school bus transformed into a mobile art studio. What started as an adventure on wheels grew into years of bringing creativity and learning to schools, camps, parks, community events, and neighborhoods throughout Southern California, reaching thousands of children along the way.

    As homeschool parents themselves, Selin and Josue believe learning should be engaging, memorable, and rooted in curiosity. Through MakerStudio, they strive to build community, create meaningful connections, and help children grow in confidence while discovering the joy of learning in an environment where every child feels welcome, capable, and inspired.

    Selin and Josue’s MakerStudio Science approach transforms their studio into an active laboratory—where hypotheses become experiments and experiments become expressive, well-crafted work—ready to take EAA Science courses to the next level.

    Students will learn practical lab skills for K–12 and homeschool settings: safe material handling, basic measurement, experimental design, observation, record-keeping, and result evaluation. They will build creativity, visual literacy, cross-disciplinary thinking, and confidence using scientific methods. These elements have earned MakerStudio recognition in art education and position the Gasa team to enhance EAA Science with inquiry-driven, creativity-focused STEM experiences for diverse learners.

EAA Board of Directors

  • Kelsey Stuart

    President

  • Mike Stuart

    Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer

  • Shelby Burns

    Secretary

  • Roxanne Baker

    Committee Chair/ Media Relations

  • Kirsten Curry

    Committee Chair /Marketing Director

Elite Athletes Academy Records

  • ELITE ATHLETES ACADEMY

    ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

    A California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation

    ARTICLE I — NAME

    The name of this corporation is Elite Athletes Academy.

    ARTICLE II — PURPOSE

    This corporation is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

    The specific purposes of Elite Athletes Academy are to:

    1. Provide academic enrichment, athletic conditioning, leadership development, and life skills training for students in grades K–12.

    2. Foster academic excellence, physical wellness, character development, and community engagement through small group educational programming.

    3. Support student athletes through educational instruction, mentoring, service opportunities, and structured athletic development.

    4. Provide educational programming for charter school, homeschool, private school, and independent study students.

    5. Develop programs that encourage citizenship, integrity, leadership, and service.

    ARTICLE III — NONPROFIT NATURE

    This corporation is a nonprofit public benefit corporation and is not organized for the private gain of any individual.

    No part of the net earnings of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its directors, officers, or other private persons except that the corporation shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered.

    ARTICLE IV — LIMITATIONS

    No substantial part of the activities of the corporation shall consist of carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation.

    The corporation shall not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.

    ARTICLE V — DEDICATION OF ASSETS

    The property of this corporation is irrevocably dedicated to charitable and educational purposes.

    Upon dissolution or winding up of the corporation, its assets remaining after payment of liabilities shall be distributed to a nonprofit organization organized and operated exclusively for charitable or educational purposes and which has established tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

    ARTICLE VI — PRINCIPAL OFFICE

    The principal office of the corporation shall be located in Ventura County, California.

    Current business address:
    801 Knollwood Drive
    Newbury Park, California 91320

    ARTICLE VII — INITIAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    The names and addresses of the persons who shall serve as the initial directors are:

    • Kelsey Stuart — President

    • Mike Stuart — Treasurer

    • Shelby Burns — Secretary

    • Tim Baker - Committee Chair

    • Denise Baker - Committee Chair

    • Kirsten Curry — Committee Chair

    • Roxanne Baker — Committee Chair

    ARTICLE VIII — REGISTERED AGENT

    The initial agent for service of process in California shall be:

    Kelsey Stuart

    ARTICLE IX — MEMBERSHIP

    This corporation shall have no voting members. All corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the authority of the Board of Directors.

    Executed on this 30 day of May, 2026.

    Kelsey Stuart, Incorporator

  • ELITE ATHLETES ACADEMY CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS

    PREAMBLE

    We, the Board of Directors of Elite Athletes Academy, establish this Constitution and Bylaws to create a educational and athletic organization committed to academic excellence, leadership, physical wellness, integrity, and community service.

    ARTICLE I — MISSION

    Elite Athletes Academy exists to develop student athletes academically, physically, emotionally, and mentally through structured educational enrichment, conditioning, leadership training, and life skills instruction.

    ARTICLE II — CORE VALUES

    The Academy shall uphold the following values:

    • Integrity

    • Excellence

    • Respect

    • Responsibility

    • Leadership

    • Service Before Self

    ARTICLE III — BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Section 1 — Governing Authority

    The Board of Directors shall govern the affairs of the organization.

    Section 2 — Board Composition

    The Board shall consist of the following officers and directors:

    • President

    • Treasurer

    • Secretary

    • Committee Chairs

    • Additional Directors as approved by the Board

    Section 3 — Current Officers

    • President: Kelsey Stuart

    • CFO/Treasurer: Mike Stuart

    • Secretary: Shelby Burns

    • Committee Chair: Kirsten Curry

    • Committee Chair: Roxanne Baker

    • Committee Chair: Kari Combs

    • Committee Chair: Tim Baker

    • Committee Chair: Denise Baker

    ARTICLE IV — DUTIES OF OFFICERS

    President

    The President shall:

    • Preside over meetings

    • Oversee organizational operations

    • Serve as spokesperson for the Academy

    • Execute approved agreements and documents

    Treasurer

    The Treasurer shall:

    • Maintain accurate financial records

    • Oversee budgets and financial reporting

    • Ensure compliance with nonprofit financial requirements

    Secretary

    The Secretary shall:

    • Maintain meeting minutes

    • Preserve organizational records

    • Handle official correspondence

    Committee Chairs

    Committee Chairs shall:

    • Lead assigned committees

    • Assist with fundraising, events, outreach, and program support

    • Provide recommendations to the Board

    ARTICLE V — BOARD MEETINGS

    Section 1 — Regular Meetings

    The Board shall meet at least quarterly.

    Section 2 — Special Meetings

    Special meetings may be called by the President or a majority of the Board.

    Section 3 — Quorum

    A majority of directors shall constitute a quorum.

    Section 4 — Voting

    Each director shall have one vote. Actions shall pass by majority vote.

    ARTICLE VI — COMMITTEES

    The Board may establish standing or temporary committees including:

    • Fundraising Committee

    • Academic Committee

    • Athletic Development Committee

    • Community Outreach Committee

    • Events Committee

    ARTICLE VII — CONFLICT OF INTEREST

    Board members shall disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest and shall abstain from voting when conflicts exist.

    ARTICLE VIII — FISCAL MANAGEMENT

    The fiscal year shall begin July 1 and end June 30.

    The Board shall approve an annual operating budget.

    All organizational funds shall be used solely for approved nonprofit purposes.

    ARTICLE IX — AMENDMENTS

    These Bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors provided written notice is given at least fourteen (14) days before the vote.

    ARTICLE X — DISSOLUTION

    Upon dissolution, all remaining assets shall be distributed to another qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization consistent with the organization’s mission.

    Adopted this 30 day of May, 2026.

    Kelsey Stuart, President

    Shelby Burns, Secretary

  • ELITE ATHLETES ACADEMY

    IRS FORM 1023 — NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES

    ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

    Elite Athletes Academy (“EAA”) is a California nonprofit educational organization dedicated to serving K–12 student athletes through academic enrichment, athletic conditioning, leadership development, life skills training, and community engagement.

    The organization provides structured educational programming in an environment focused on academic excellence, physical wellness, character development, and service leadership.

    Programs are designed primarily for homeschool, charter school, independent study, and alternative education families seeking enrichment and athletic development opportunities.

    PRIMARY ACTIVITIES

    1. Academic Enrichment Program

    EAA provides structured educational enrichment courses for students in grades K–12.

    Instruction includes:

    • English Language Arts

    • Composition and Writing

    • Grammar

    • Mathematics

    • Physical, Earth, & Life Science

    • History and Civics

    • Nutrition Literacy

    • Leadership Development

    • Life Skills Education

    Programs are conducted in small-group instructional settings designed to support individualized learning and student engagement.

    The organization emphasizes:

    • Academic accountability

    • Time management

    • Leadership skills

    • Communication skills

    • Real-world application of learning

    2. Athletic Conditioning Program

    EAA operates youth athletic conditioning and wellness programs focused on:

    • Agility

    • Strength

    • Coordination

    • Teamwork

    • Physical wellness

    • Injury prevention

    • Athletic confidence

    Conditioning activities include:

    • HIIT-style workouts

    • Team competitions

    • Sports foundations

    • Athletic skill development

    • Leadership through athletics

    Programs are supervised by qualified instructors and coaches.

    3. Leadership & Life Skills Development

    The organization integrates leadership and life skills training throughout all programming.

    Monthly themes include:

    • Citizenship

    • Community service

    • Financial literacy

    • Business skills

    • Emergency preparedness

    • Manners and etiquette

    • Academic integrity

    • Health and nutrition

    Students participate in collaborative projects, public speaking, volunteer opportunities, and leadership-focused activities.

    4. Community Service Activities

    EAA organizes service-learning opportunities that encourage students to serve their local communities.

    Activities may include:

    • Community outreach projects

    • Donation drives

    • Volunteer partnerships

    • Service competitions

    • Family support initiatives

    These activities reinforce leadership, citizenship, and social responsibility.

    5. Parent Support & Educational Partnerships

    EAA works collaboratively with parents, charter schools, educators, and community partners to support student development.

    The organization may:

    • Partner with charter schools as an approved vendor

    • Provide enrichment support services

    • Host educational workshops

    • Offer parent communication meetings

    • Coordinate student progress reporting

    FUNDING SOURCES

    EAA anticipates support through:

    • Tuition and program fees

    • Donations

    • Sponsorships

    • Fundraising events

    • Grants

    • Community partnerships

    No earnings shall benefit private individuals.

    COMPENSATION

    Reasonable compensation may be paid to qualified staff, instructors, coaches, administrators, and contractors for services rendered consistent with nonprofit compensation standards.

    GOVERNANCE

    The organization is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for oversight of finances, programming, compliance, and strategic planning.

    Board members serve without profit distribution and are subject to conflict-of-interest policies.

    PUBLIC BENEFIT

    EAA exists to provide educational and developmental opportunities that improve youth academic performance, physical wellness, leadership capacity, and community engagement.

    Programs are intended to benefit families and students throughout Ventura County and surrounding communities.

  • ELITE ATHLETES ACADEMY

    INITIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES

    Date: May 30, 2026
    Time: 5:00 p.m.
    Location: Zoom

    CALL TO ORDER

    The initial meeting of the Board of Directors of Elite Athletes Academy was called to order by Kelsey Stuart at May 30, 2026.

    ROLL CALL

    Present:

    • Kelsey Stuart — President

    • Mike Stuart — Treasurer

    • Shelby Burns — Secretary

    • Kirsten Curry — Committee Chair

    • Roxanne Baker — Committee Chair

    A quorum was established.

    PURPOSE OF MEETING

    The purpose of the meeting was to establish the governing framework of Elite Athletes Academy as a California nonprofit public benefit corporation and begin operations consistent with the organization’s educational and charitable mission.

    APPROVAL OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

    The Board reviewed the Articles of Incorporation.

    Motion made by: Shelby Burns
    Seconded by: Kirsten Curry

    Motion carried unanimously.

    ADOPTION OF CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS

    The Board reviewed and discussed the Constitution and Bylaws of Elite Athletes Academy.

    Motion made by: Kelsey Stuart
    Seconded by: Shelby Burns

    Motion carried unanimously.

    APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS

    The following officers were formally appointed:

    • President: Kelsey Stuart

    • Tresurer: Mike Stuart

    • Secretary: Shelby Burns

    Committee Chairs:

    • Kirsten Curry

    • Roxanne Baker

    Motion carried unanimously.

    BANKING RESOLUTION

    The Board approved opening organizational banking accounts in the name of Elite Athletes Academy and authorized the Treasurer and President as approved signers.

    Motion carried unanimously.

    IRS FORM 1023 AUTHORIZATION

    The Board authorized submission of IRS Form 1023 seeking federal tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3).

    Motion carried unanimously.

    PROGRAM OVERVIEW DISCUSSION

    The Board reviewed the Academy’s mission and planned educational programming including:

    • Academic enrichment

    • Athletic conditioning

    • Leadership training

    • Life skills development

    • Community service opportunities

    • Charter school partnerships

    • Student athlete support services

    ADJOURNMENT

    There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 2:00 p.m.

    Submitted by:

    Shelby Burns, Secretary

    Approved by:

    Kelsey Stuart, President