Derray Ward 

Founder/Program Director/Coach/Player Development Trainer

As the founder and Program Director, Derray (Coach Ward) invests his heart, soul, and time into each and every youth that he encounters. Ward played basketball at Como Park high school, North Hennepin Community College, and currently plays in charity games and men's leagues around the twin cities. With over 25 years of basketball experience; playing, coaching, and being a fan of the sport. Derray envisioned a mentorship program that would not only enhance basketball skills but also provide guidance, support, and life skills to young individuals facing various challenges.

Growing up in a community where opportunities were limited, Derray experienced firsthand the impact that sports can have on a young person's life. Inspired by his own journey and fueled by a desire to pay it forward, he founded "Forward Thinking Foundation." He is currently the Head Coach for Boys C-Squad at Hiawatha Collegiate Academy(2024-25).

"In the end the results, will always RESULT!"

- Coach Ward

Abdul Kunert

Board Vice Chair

of Nonprofit Organization

"I love to give back to the community any chance that I get. I've been active in communities across the Twin Cities for over 15 years. Hosting events, turkey drives, and much more. It brings me joy and fulfilment. So the idea to be a part of Forward Thinking was brought to me by Derray, it was a no brainer. I guess it helps that we've been friends for 20 years hahaha..."

Blake Gibson

President of Basketball Operations/Coach/

Board Member

"I simply love the game and it's a way for me to give back to the kids."

Blake played Juco basketball at Angelina College in Lufkin, Tx. He has 5 years of coaching experience. Blake has been with Forward Thinking staff since the start of the program. Coach Blake coaches our 12U Boys, class of 2032.

Dominique James

Treasurer/Coach/

Board Member

"I enjoy the game of basketball, teaching the kids, and watching them become better as a team."

Dominique has 10 years of coaching experience. She has been with Forward Thinking since the start up. Here we are 6 years later. Because of her support and dedication to Forward Thinking, Dominique has been appointed Treasurer. Coach James coaches our 16U Girls, class of 2028.

Candice Butler

Vice President of Basketball Operations/Coach/

Board Member

"I played basketball my whole life it's always been my first love. I love to teach the youth life skills and be an example of getting the job done while you're able to! ...once your glory years are over, you can't redo them."

A graduate of South high School, played on the girls basketball team from 2002-2006. Coach Candice has 4 years of coaching experience. She is currently the Head Coach of the Girl's C-Squad Basketball Team at Roosevelt High School. She joined the FTB coaching staff in 2024. She coaches our 16U Girls, class of 2027.

Jenna Wykle

Coach/Board Member

"Coaching is an opportunity to not just teach kids a game but to have an impression on who they are as people. I believe when you have a gift or talent that you should cultivate it and share it when the opportunity arises. Coaching has become that for me. I don’t know it all but what I do know, I love to pass along to help kids become the best they can be."

Coach Jenna has played the game of basketball her whole life and coached in various roles for the last 6 years. This will be her 3rd year with FTB coaching staff. Will coach our 15U Girls, class of 2029.

Katie Flanigan

Board Member

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Vance Kell

Coach

"I want to give back to the community and help mentor the youth."

Coach Kell will be returning to FTB to coach our 17U Boys.

Dominique King

Coach

"Coaching to me isn’t just about teaching the game, it’s about guiding the youth toward a better future. Through basketball, my goal is to help keep kids off the streets and away from negative influences and also providing them with a constructive outlet for their energy and emotions...As a coach, I have the chance to be a mentor."

Coach Dom has been coaching for approximately 5 years. She serves as a Human Resource Business Partner at Hennepin Tech, where she is dedicated to supporting and developing others in their careers. Coach Dom has joined forces with Coach Blake to coach our 11U Boys, class of 2032.

Floyd Daniels

Coach

Candise Fountain

Coach

"I enjoy creating positive experiences for others and bringing a sense of energy and care into every environment I’m part of. Beyond work, I value being active, especially through sports, and I’ve volunteered with youth programs and basketball tournaments because I believe in the impact sports can have on confidence and community. Family and meaningful relationships are central in my life, and I carry those values into how I show up for others."

Coach Candise has been a fan of the game of basketball all her life. She grew up playing the sport and still enjoys everything about it. We are excited to have Coach Candise join the FTB family.

Elijah Poindexter

Coach

"I’m excited to mentor players through wins and losses, build an inclusive culture, and adapt strategies to help each athlete thrive. If I can inspire a love for the game and empower them to become better teammates and people, I’ll know I’ve done my job."

Coach Elijah played basketball at Burnsville High School, graduating in 2006. He then continued his basketball career at Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC), for one year before transferring to Dunwoody College of Technology to pursue a career in electrical design. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Construction Management from the University of Wisconsin Stout. We are happy to welcome Coach Elijah to FTB.

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