More Than An Athlete

More Than An Athlete (MTA) is our mentorship program designed to support underrepresented high school senior student athletes as they transition from high school to college and life beyond sport.

The program pairs each scholar athlete with a former or current college athlete who provides guidance through the college application and recruiting process while supporting academic readiness, leadership development, and long term career exploration.

Through structured mentorship, students build skills in professional development, interview preparation, network building, and personal growth, reinforcing identity, discipline, and purpose both on and off the field.

Program Structure

November 2025 – June 2026

Monthly Group Sessions

Weekly 1:1 Mentorship Sessions

Topics covered: College Applications, College Essays, Brand Building, LinkedIn Presence, Interview Prep, Career Readiness, Public Speaking, Leadership Development, Financial Literacy and more, including several guest speakers including CEO's and Professional Athletes.

Applications for the 9th-10th and 11th-12th grade '26-'27 Cohort coming soon!

Meet Our Mentors

Professional role models from top universities across the country, dedicated to guiding the next generation.

DT Cares More Than An Athlete Mentors - 11 mentors from Harvard, Duke, Norfolk State, and more

'25-'26 Cohort

10 Hartford County scholar-athletes paired with mentors who share their lived experiences and guide them through college and career pathways.

Scholars 1-5: Myalis DeJesus, Catherine Carmon, Kambryl Armstrong, Pehansa Samarakoon, Cianna Hill with their mentors

Representation, access, and intentional relationships drive transformation.

Mentee / Mentor of the Month

Pehansa Samarakoon and Courtney Kearse - Mentee and Mentor of the Month

This pair demonstrated consistent attendance, strong communication, and high engagement during huddles and group discussions—both in session and outside of sessions. They are showing positive momentum and embody the values of consistency, effort, and connection.

Impact

90% of scholars completed their college essay

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

Mentorship: Consistent check-ins, college support, intentional relationships

What Scholars & Mentors Are Saying

Scholar and mentor feedback on program impact

Dominic and Patrick - Mentorship that matters

Programs evolve when voices are centered.

Be Part of the Journey

Support mentorship that goes beyond the game. Help us expand access to college readiness, life skills, and meaningful relationships for Hartford County youth.