A Four-Year Journey
More Than An Athlete is a four-year leadership and mentorship journey designed to help high-potential scholar-athletes thrive in high school, prepare for college, and build the confidence, network, and life skills to succeed long after graduation. Through sustained one-on-one mentorship, leadership development, college campus visits, corporate exposure trips, and a supportive community, students discover what's possible—and develop the tools to achieve it.
Why Join MTA?
College & Career Opportunities
Scholarship opportunities, college preparation, campus visits, and career exposure.
A Mentor Who Invests in You
Personal coaching, accountability, and support for four years.
A Powerful Network
Build relationships with college athletes, professionals, and community leaders.
Exclusive Experiences
Corporate visits, leadership events, networking, and field trips.
Leadership & Life Skills
Confidence, communication, goal-setting, and self-advocacy.
A Community That Has Your Back
Lifelong friendships and a supportive cohort that grows together.
We invest in your potential.
You build your future.
- Confidence
- Leadership
- Purpose
- Opportunity
- A Lifetime Network
You bring the ambition. We'll help unlock the opportunities.
Your Commitment
- Commit to your growth for all four years of high school
- Attend virtual sessions once a month on Sunday evenings (October 2026 – May 2027)
- Actively participate in virtual sessions, in-person experiences, and program events
- Meet regularly with your mentor and personal coach
- Support your cohort and hold yourself accountable
- Earn the opportunity to continue in your cohort each year through consistent engagement
Why Four Years?
Because meaningful mentorship takes time. Students build trusted relationships, develop leadership skills, explore college and career opportunities, and grow alongside the same supportive community throughout high school.
Who We're Looking For
Incoming 9th grade scholar-athletes who are ready to grow, open to support, and excited about their future.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so don't wait—apply as soon as you can. Spots are limited.
1. Apply
Complete the online application for both the scholar AND a family member (includes short answers + 2 essays).
2. Interview
Selected applicants will be invited to a 20-minute virtual interview with the DT Cares team.
3. Join the Movement
Be part of a community that's here to support you every step of the way.
Questions? Email us at michelleszynkowicz@dilligencetraining.org
Meet Our '25-'26 Cohort Mentors
Professional role models from top universities across the country, dedicated to guiding the next generation.
'25-'26 Cohort
10 Hartford County scholar-athletes paired with mentors who share their lived experiences and guide them through college and career pathways.
Representation, access, and intentional relationships drive transformation.
Impact
90% college essay completion
Scholars completed their college applications with mentor support
Consistent one-on-one huddles
Regular check-ins and relationship building beyond sessions
Scholars feel supported
Students reported feeling confident, accomplished, and heard throughout their journey
Mentorship Beyond the Session
What Scholars & Mentors Are Saying
Programs evolve when voices are centered.