Smart Sports
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About Us

We believe opportunity should not be left to chance

Helping young people connect what they learn today to what they can do tomorrow

Why We Exist

Too often, young people disengage from school not because they lack ability, but because they do not see how what they are learning connects to their future.

Sports create energy, discipline, and consistency. But for many young people, those experiences are never connected to broader opportunity.

Smart Sports was created to close that gap by bringing together sports, academics, and meaningful exposure so young people can better understand what is possible and how to move toward it.

“Access isn’t the issue. Clarity is.”
M

Mission

Smart Sports uses the power of sports to drive academic engagement and career exposure, creating pathways to opportunity for youth.

V

Vision

Expanding potential through education, skills, and exposure.

Our Values

The CHOICE framework guides everything we do.

C

Courage

We step forward and take initiative, even when it is uncomfortable.

H

Health

We prioritize physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

O

Ownership

We take responsibility for our actions, growth, and future.

I

Impact

We focus on outcomes that create meaningful change.

C

Curiosity

We ask questions, explore ideas, and keep learning.

E

Excellence

We show up prepared and do the work at a high level.

Board of Directors

Smart Sports is guided by leaders committed to expanding opportunity for young people through education, sport, and community impact.

Our Team

Our team brings together experience in education, athletics, youth development, and community partnership. Click any card to learn more.

A Note From the Founder

Why I Built Smart Sports

“

Smart Sports was created to connect learning, exposure, and opportunity in a way that is intentional and accessible.

I spent my career in collegiate and professional athletics, where I saw firsthand how powerful sports can be in opening doors. I also observed how often the gap left young people without exposure to what exists beyond the game.

This model is informed by decades of experience across youth development, collegiate athletics, and professional sports.

Kelly Mehrtens

Founder, Smart Sports

Join the Movement

There are multiple ways to bring Smart Sports to more young people and expand access to opportunity.

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