OUR MISSION

At Kids Elite, our aim is to empower children to live healthy and active lifestyles through high-quality developmental sports, fitness and enrichment programs.

CORE VALUES


LEADERSHIP


Step up and take initiative.

Kids who take risks and try something new develop confidence that builds a strong foundation for leadership.


TEAMWORK


Teamwork makes the dream work!

Learning to collaborate and work well with others is a skill that kids need in school, in sports, and in life.


EFFORT


Give 100%, even when you don’t feel 100%.

When kids learn that effort is more important than the scoreboard, they develop a growth mindset and address challenges with a positive attitude.


INTEGRITY


Do what’s right, even when no one else is looking.

As kids learn to bring integrity into the game, they develop sportsmanship that translates to strong character in all areas of their lives.


Effort + Leadership + Integrity + Teamwork = Excellence

Our core values are taught and reinforced throughout the week. Each day a core value is highlighted during huddle time and during sports sessions. A “Camper of the Day” who has demonstrated the day’s core value is selected from each camper group at the closing huddle.

Excellence is our core value that culminates the week, encompassing the first four core values. We encourage campers to “Do your best and be your best!” We believe when kids learn to set goals and welcome healthy competition, they develop high self-efficacy and a positive self-image. They learn to strive for excellence.




SUMMER
CAMP


Kids Elite is the ideal summer camp providing an array of recreational and competitive sports including basketball, soccer, kickball, badminton, tug of war, interactive football, speed and agility drills, board games, and much more.



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UA PREMIER TRAINING


In partnership with Under Armour, our Premier Training programs are for dedicated and experienced youth athletes, ages 8 – 18, who seek to develop skills and excel in their primary sport(s).



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EVENTS & PROGRAMS


We know how to innovate and have fun! Whether it’s our interactive football events or our UA Girls’ Running and Leadership Institute, another awesome event is coming soon!



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KIDS ELITE SPORTS FOUNDED


Although Desmond Dunham “Coach D” initially developed the idea in 2013, Kids Elite officially launched in summer 2014 with an energetic and eager group of about 40 campers over the course of four weeks at Jackson Reed (formerly Wilson) High School in the Tenleytown neighborhood in NW Washington, DC.  Coach D and the KE team were encouraged by all the positive feedback from the parents of those campers and decided to forge ahead beyond that inaugural year.



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SUMMER CAMP EXPANDED
TO 2nd LOCATION


By the summer of 2019, Kids Elite offered eight weeks of summer camp, hosting more than 130 campers each week. Because of the demand, Kids Elite expanded to offer camp at a second location — Murch Elementary School. Coach D also galvanized summer training for serious athletes who were seeking competitive development to prepare for their fall seasons.



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PARTNERSHIP WITH UNDER ARMOUR


In 2020, Coach D officially partnered with Under Armour as an ambassador and coach to host premier training programs for dedicated youth athletes.

During this unprecedented time, Kids Elite did not offer in-person camps, but did offer free virtual sessions to support families.



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2023 Kids Elite Opens
Post Pandemic


Kids Elite opened up after hosting camp virtually in the pandemic. Kids Elite offered camp throughout the summer at their Murch and Jackson-Reed sites.


FIND ALL ANSWERS

FAQ?


  • Are Before and Aftercare services available?
  • Do you accept “Walk In” registrations?”
  • Do you offer discounts?
  • Do you separate children by age and grade?
  • How do I register for Kids Elite Sports Camp?
  • How do you handle inclement weather?
  • Is your camp safe and secure?
  • Should my camper enroll in multiple weeks of camp?
  • What are the camp hours?
  • What does my child need to bring to camp?
  • What is an example of a typical day?
  • What is the counselor to camper ratio at Kids Elite Sports Camp?
  • What precautions do you take to handle the summer heat?
  • Where is your summer camp located?
  • Will I receive additional information about camp after I register?
Are Before and Aftercare services available?

Yes Before and Aftercare services are available between 7:30 – 9:00am (8am start at our Murch location) and 3:00 – 6:00pm. The cost for Before and Aftercare for the entire day would be $150 per week. The cost for daily drop in for Beforecare is $10 and Aftercare services is $30 per day.

Do you accept “Walk In” registrations?”

Yes we do offer “Walk In” registrations as long as that session is not sold out. We will do our best to accommodate every camper, but this is not always a guarantee. Therefore we encourage you to register in advance.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes!  We offer Early Bird Discount and Multiple Sibling Discount.

Do you separate children by age and grade?

Kids Elite Sports Camp is appropriately separated into groups by their grade level and skill level. We take into consideration physical strength and ability. This is decided at the discretion of the Camp Director in order to determine what’s best for the FUNdamental development of the child.

How do I register for Kids Elite Sports Camp?

You may register online here. All programs are one week sessions and must be paid for in full upon enrollment. There are no refunds, nor cancellations. Typically the majority of our summer programs have limited enrollment, so we encourage you to register as soon as possible.

How do you handle inclement weather?

Safety is our number one priority at all times, and we are extremely mindful of the weather. If we see lightning or hear even the slightest sound of thunder, our outdoor camp programs are immediately brought inside as we take extreme precaution to ensure that all campers are safe. We also have the additional indoor space to house all campers in a safe and fun environment.

Is your camp safe and secure?

You can rest assured knowing that your campers will be safe and secure with our highly trained leadership within our state of the art facility. Kids Elite staff is handpicked, screened and certified with countless hours in training. The counselors undergo a rigorous training to ensure that our core goals and beliefs are exemplified.

Should my camper enroll in multiple weeks of camp?

Yes, we encourage your child to register for multiple weeks in advance! There are multiple session discounts available. Plus this will ensure that your child gets to experience all the camp has to offer.

What are the camp hours?

Kids Elite Sports Camp goes from 9:00am –3:00pm. Before and Aftercare is available for extended camp hours.

What does my child need to bring to camp?

Campers should bring their own lunch, a water bottle, and extra face masks. They should also bring any sunscreen or medical supplies for any allergic reactions they may possess. You should clearly label your child’s belongings with their full name to prevent items from being lost.

What is an example of a typical day?

Click these links for both typical Camp day and typical Premier day

What is the counselor to camper ratio at Kids Elite Sports Camp?
In each Kids Elite Sports Camp we provide a unique environment where campers are able to benefit from individual and group instruction. Each individual program is supervised and run by Program Leader to ensure consistency and proper supervision. For our younger campers, we aim to maintain a counselor to camper ratio of approximately 1:5.
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What precautions do you take to handle the summer heat?

Kids Elite Sports Camp is well aware that the summer heat can drain a camper throughout the day and week. Water is always available and campers are encouraged to take water breaks periodically. The Camp Director communicates daily with the TEAM and takes special precautions on Code RED or extremely hot days. Not only ensuring multiple breaks from the outside into air conditioned environments, but also making sure that sunscreen is re-applied on your camper multiple times throughout the day.

Where is your summer camp located?

Wilson High School
3950 Chesapeake St. NW, Washington, DC 20016

State of the Art Facilities include: Multiple Gymnasiums, Turf Field, and Aquatic Center

Murch Elementary School
4810 36th Street NW, Washington DC 20008

State of the Art Facilities include: Gymnasium, Turf Field, and Full Playground

Will I receive additional information about camp after I register?
Once you register and pay for your camp session(s), you will receive a confirmation email for your own records. In addition to that confirmation email, you may receive a reminder the week of notifying you of essential information regarding your camp session.
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CHOOSE WHICH PROGRAM
IS RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD


Is your child looking for an opportunity to try out multiple sports and activities or more interested in specialized training? Click to learn more about our programs.


MORE ABOUT US

OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM




FOUNDER & CEO

DESMOND DUNHAM “Coach D”

If you ask our Kids Elite campers, they will tell you “Coach D is the best!” Coach D is a nationally acclaimed track and field and cross-country coach and local youth sports expert. As a teacher, coach and community leader in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for the past two decades, Coach D has been recognized as a three-time Washington Post All-Met Coach of the Year and has coached 100+ High School All-Americans and Junior Olympic All-Americans athletes. For Kids Elite, he leads and manages the programs, operations, and strategy. And, he’s always excited to join in some of the games and fun on Field Day Fridays!

Coach D earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Exercise Physiology from Howard University and enjoyed a successful running career as a division 1 student-athlete. He received his Master’s Degree in Education from Trinity Washington University.

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ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

BYRON GREENE “Coach B”

Role:  Associate Director
College:  Howard University, Morgan State University
Favorite Sport:  Football
Favorite Team:  Indianapolis Colts
Fun Fact:  Coach B is aMaZing at Ping Pong!


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“A big believer in teamwork!” Coach B truly supports all aspects of working together. This philosophy is communicated on a daily basis to inspire campers and staff alike. Coach B is the camp director for the flagship site at Wilson High School. He manages program registration and client support.
He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Morgan State University and played division I tennis. Byron received a Master’s of Science degree in Biochemistry from Howard University. During the day, Coach B spends his time teaching and mentoring at Imagine Andrews Public Charter School (MD). He is an experienced little league coach and chess coach.


CO-FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR

JAMI DUNHAM “Coach Jami”

Role: Managing Director
College: Howard University, Trinity University
Favorite Sport: Basketball
Favorite Team: Washington Spirit
Fun Fact: At seven years old, Coach Jami was the only girl on her first organized youth soccer team.


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Coach Jami manages staff development and training, program development, and strategic direction and partnerships. Jami earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Howard University, majoring in English and French, with a minor in Elementary Education, while also competing as a Division 1 athlete on the HU women’s soccer team. Jami earned her Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership from Trinity University. Spanning two decades as a successful leader in education, Jami has been a teacher, assistant principal, head of school, and CEO of a charter school network. She is currently the Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer at KIPP DC Public Schools. Jami spent many years as a youth coach and believes sports can change lives. In her spare time, Jami enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family.


SITE COORDINATOR

TIA CLEMMONS “Coach TC”

Role: Site Coordinator & Sports Specialist
College: H—U…The Real HU!!!!  The Illustrious, Howard “The Mecca” University
Favorite Sport: Track & Field
Favorite Team: E-A-G-L-E-S…Eagles!
Fun Fact: Coach TC was a top Girl Scout cookie seller as a senior high school student, where she sold cookies out of her locker to teachers and peers!


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Coach TC leads the camp operations at the Murch Elementary School location and also works as a sports specialist, providing developmental and competitive speed & agility training sessions. Coach TC is a big believer in academics and character, stressing that success and winning is a byproduct of all the hard work you put in. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Physiology with a minor in Sports Administration from Howard University, while competing as a Division 1 athlete on the HU track and field team. She earned her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Trinity University. Coach TC is a Health Science teacher at Wilson High School and coaches the cross-country and track & field teams.


SITE COORDINATOR

MARK McCANTS “Coach Mark”

Role: Murch Site Coordinator
College: University of Akron
Favorite Sport: Football
Favorite Team: Ohio State Buckeyes
Fun Fact: Coach Mark welcomed “baby boy”, Trae Lamb McCants, to the Kids Elite family March 2021.


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Coach Mark co-leads camp operations at the Murch Elementary School location and leads fun and interactive sports sessions for campers. Coach Mark has worked with children for well over 10 years. He holds a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from the University of Akron (Ohio). He has taught children from Pre-K – 5th grade, and currently teaches STEM at Stoddert ES in Glover Park where he also coaches elementary school girls and boys basketball, track and field, and flag football. His professional knowledge and educational implementation guides his work with Kids Elite in differentiating instruction for children on all developmental levels. Coach Mark enjoys riding his bike, reading, and challenging our youth educationally through an inquiry-based approach.

SPORTS SPECIALIST

SHAWN BELL “Coach Bell”

Role: Sports Specialist
College: Montgomery College
Favorite Team: Football Street Hockey & Ultimate Frisbee
Fun Fact: Coach Bell started as a preschool teacher.


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Coach Bell leads dynamic and exciting sports sessions at the Wilson camp site and specializes in floor hockey, Interactive football, flag football, and recreational games. Coach Bell has worked with children for well over 15 years. He has a variety of experiences including, infant and early childhood care, recreation and parks (Montgomery County), and elementary school after care and sports programming. Coach Bell has a vast background, knowledge and experience providing quality recreational and sports programming for children in the Washington, D.C. area. He began his career as an assistant preschool teacher and transitioned into after school programs. Additionally, Coach Bell is an NFL flag football certified coach. In addition to his role at Kids Elite, Coach Bell currently coordinates the sports and games recess program and the after school program at Lafayette Elementary School and serves as the Athletic Director for the Star Achievers After School Program.

PROGRAM MANAGER

TAMEKA RICHARDSON “Coach Tameka“

Role: Project Manager
College: University of South Florida
Favorite Sport: Track & Field
Favorite Team: The Super Bowl Champs – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (fan since they were Orange & White).
Fun Fact: Coach Tameka plays the violin.


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Tameka is a highly skilled, creative, goal-oriented professional that has been involved in relational community outreach and development of adolescent youth for the past 17 years which has afforded her to work with middle and high school students and college students with diverse needs. Tameka’s motivation is her desire to create transformational change in communities through collaboration, leadership, and resource and program development that engages youth and cultivates spiritual and holistic growth within their lives and communities.
Tameka’s skills lie in evaluating and developing innovative strategic systems, growth and development of missional communities, training and development of staff and volunteers, resource development, and cross cultural collaboration.
Her outreach experience has been through her work with Young Life as a Regional Trainer and Program Director for the State of Florida and also through her involvement as an Operations Associate for Kids Elite Sports Inc. She has been a high school assistant coach for cross-country and track and field for over five years. Aside from her work involvement, she considers herself a life-long learner, a lover of travel, and creator of priceless memories. Tameka earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Gerontology from the University of South Florida and a Master of Arts in Theology.

WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILD

OUR TEAM




Dawn Smith
“Coach Dawn“


Role: Aftercare Coordinator
College: Xavier University of Louisiana
Favorite Sport: Football
Favorite Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Fun Fact: Coach Dawn enjoys educating and encouraging children to reach their fullest potential!





Tameka Jameson
“Coach Meka“


Role: Speed Coach
College: The University of Miami
Favorite Sport: Track & Field
Favorite Team: Miami Hurricanes
Fun Fact: Coach Meka is a twin!





Thelma Ortega
“Coach Thelma“


Role: Operations and Social Media Manager
College: Eckerd College
Favorite Sport: Boxing
Favorite Team: Brooklyn Nets
Fun Fact: Coach Thelma has seven years of experience in martial arts. She has traveled to Cambodia, France, Spain, Guatemala, South Korea, Morocco, Italy.





Dominick Hogans
“Coach Dom”


Roles: Sports Specialist, Boot Camp Trainer, Speed Coach
College: Pennsylvania State University
Favorite Sport: Basketball/Track
Favorite Team: Patriots
Fun Fact: Coach Dom is slightly TikTok famous for track and fitness and he knows how to walk on stilts.





Eric Viera
“Coach Urk”


Roles: Sports Specialist
College: Montgomery College
Favorite Sport: Soccer and basketball
Favorite Team: All DC sports teams
Fun Fact: Coach Urk is the reigning Kids Elite cornhole champion.








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