“Leila’s story truly embodies the heart of our mission,” said Harold Pearson, Executive Director of SPAAT. “We’re incredibly honored to have her share her experience, and we’re grateful to Deebo Samuel and the NFL for selecting SPAAT from among so many deserving organizations. This platform will not only raise awareness of our work but also help us extend our impact and support even more students in their transition from sports to successful futures.”
The Student Program for Academic & Athletic Transitioning (SPAAT), a nonprofit dedicated to helping student-athletes succeed in college, careers, and life beyond sports, is proud to be part of the NFL’s 2024 My Cause My Cleats initiative. Chosen by San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel, SPAAT will be showcased through custom-designed cleats that highlight the organization’s mission to empower young athletes in their academic and athletic journeys.
As part of the campaign, SPAAT will be featured in a 90-second NFL commercial airing during Monday Night Football on November 25 through December. The commercial, which reaches millions of viewers, will spotlight the impact of SPAAT through the powerful story of Leila Fite, a standout high school student-athlete whose journey reflects the organization’s core values.
SPAAT’s inclusion in My Cause My Cleats provides invaluable national exposure, helping to amplify its efforts to support the next generation of student-athletes.
The Student Program for Academic and Athletic Transitioning (SPAAT) is dedicated to empowering young athletes by providing comprehensive support that fosters academic success, athletic improvement, and personal growth. Our initiative helps students prepare for college, careers and life beyond sports.
Join Us for Giving Tuesday
This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to support SPAAT in our mission to transform the lives of young student-athletes from low-to-moderate income communities. SPAAT has achieved a remarkable 100% success rate in its students graduating, a testament to our comprehensive support system that includes academic assistance, career guidance, and leadership development.
SPAAT has also achieved great success in helping students attend prestigious colleges such as Stanford and UCLA, as well as other renowned institutions. Additionally, SPAAT creates community citizens with many students going on to pursue career technical education and leading productive lives, contributing positively to the communities in which they live. SPAAT works with student-athletes as well as all other students in the schools it is privileged to serve. Their success is guided by the creation of a singular connection in the midst of a group by people, men and women who have been where they are.
Not a hand-out But, a Hand-UP
Your contribution will help us continue to provide these essential services and expand our reach to more students in need. Together, we can ensure that every student-athlete and student can have the opportunity to succeed in college, careers, and life beyond sports and circumstances.