Big yArd academy
Big Yard Academy (BYA) is a two-week summer program that empowers youth through education and sports. Combining S.T.E.A.M. learning with flag football, the Academy fosters personal growth in middle school Student-Athletes.
Our inaugural 2024 cohort featured 30 Student-Athletes who were immersed in programming designed to build resilience and equip them to overcome social adversity prevalent in communities with limited access to resources and opportunities.
BYA PRINCIPLES
Our Big Yard Academy principles are a direct reflection of our program’s intended outcomes, translated to promote attainable outcomes, and to give our program a set of values towards which we strive to carry ourselves, both individually and collectively.
Our principles are an agreement with ourselves, and each other.
Our North Star.
team work & collaboration
THE WOLF IS ONLY AS STRONG AS THE PACK. TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE.
e . A . D .
EFFORT, ATTITUDE & DETAILS
CONFIDENCE & BELIEF. . .
…IN ONESELF TODAY AND THE GROWTH THAT TOMORROW WILL BRING.
SELF-AWARENESS
TAP IN. TUNE IN. LOCK IN.
removing barriers
87%
of Student-Athlete said they would return to Academy next summer.
65%
of Student-Athlete participants expressed curiosity about exploring the S.T.E.A.M. careers of the guest speakers.
85%
of Student-Athlete participants expressed interest in exploring general S.T.E.A.M. professions after Academy.
40%
of Student-Athlete participants felt more confident in math and science by the end of Academy.
100%
of resources needed for S.T.E.A.M. and flag football sessions provided including athletic apparel kits, backpacks, and learning tools.
100%
of Student-Athlete participants received daily nutritious meals offered twice a day.
100%
Transportation needs met.
big yard academy
mini series
Original mini-series in collaboration with JuiceBox Creative
OUR 2024 COHORT
2025 REGISTRATION
Join us this summer for an impactful experience that fosters growth, teamwork, and personal development!
WHEN: JUNE 30TH - JULY 11TH, 2025
WHERE: UNIVERSITY OF PORTLAND
Register now for Big Yard Academy and take your journey to the next level!
