
OUR leadership Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Meet our leadership team.
We are a dedicated group, united by our shared belief in the power of developing and supporting our youth. With extensive experience in our respective fields, we are committed to supporting our children both on and off the field, ensuring they have the guidance and resources to become leaders of tomorrow.

Lawrence Posey
CEO / Coach
Lawrence Posey, a Camden, NJ native, is a published author, rising director, and dedicated advocate for social change. A graduate of NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Studies, he earned a degree in Nonprofit and For-Profit Development for Social Change, shaping his mission to drive meaningful impact.
As an entrepreneur, Lawrence founded Legacy Works Enterprises, a consulting firm specializing in nonprofit and for-profit organization development, grant writing, and fundraising. He also launched Premiere Athletes, where, as a certified youth and interscholastic coach, he empowers young athletes to use sports and media production as stepping stones to higher education and future success.
Lawrence is also a proud father of two boys, both currently in college, who inspire his passion for mentoring the next generation.

Sarah Manna
Director of Production & Operations
Born and raised in Sweden, Sarah moved to New York City as a young adult to complete her BA in Advertising at Pace University. She quickly found her footing in the industry, launching a career in advertising production that now spans over 25 years. Throughout her career, Sarah has produced high-profile TV commercials and marketing campaigns for globally recognized brands, including Nike, Converse, Adidas, Reebok, and Budweiser.
Sarah grew up immersed in sports and is passionate about how the power of team sports foster youth development.
Beyond advertising, she is a certified Health Coach, Meditation Practitioner, and a Reiki Master, blending her expertise in production with a deep commitment to wellness and personal growth.
She currently lives in Westchester, NY, with her two children.

Lauren Smith
Director of Education / Coach
Lauren is a New York State certified educator with over 15 years of experience in both urban and suburban school settings. Lauren is committed to creating a fun, safe, and inclusive learning environment for all students. She believes that every child has limitless potential for success and strives to inspire and empower her students to become strong critical thinkers and lifelong learners. Through a variety of learning opportunities tailored to all types of learners, Lauren helps her students advance on their path toward greatness. She holds a Master's degree in Curriculum & Instruction.
Lauren lives in Westchester, NY with her 3 children.

Sara Grant
Director of Human Resources
Sara worked for nineteen years with the large pension fund Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association in their Human Resources Department. Prior to that, she was the Director of Training for Girl Scouts of the USA.
Currently, she teaches courses at Baruch College in New York City and is a mentor at Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, New Jersey. She also provides consulting services in management development, typically to nonprofit organizations. Sara earned her doctorate at New York University's Wagner School of Public Service in May 2006.

Michael Patterson
Athletic Director / Coach
Michael was born in Mount Vernon, NY, and developed a strong foundation in both sports and community service. He played two years of high school football at New Rochelle High School and another two years at Columbia High School in South Carolina.
With a passion for helping others, he worked as a Senior Adolescent Drug Counselor at the Guidance Center of Westchester for five years, where he made a meaningful impact on youth and families. He then gained valuable experience as a foreman at Empire Fire Stopping for four years.
Currently, Michael serves as the Program Manager and Youth Sports Manager at the Yonkers YMCA Clubhouse, where he helps run various youth programs and sports initiatives. He holds an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts from Monroe College in New Rochelle, NY, and studied Behavioral Science at Grand Canyon University. Additionally, he is a certified USA Coach in both tackle and flag football and holds the NY State CASAC Drug and Alcohol Certification.

Peter Spano
Program Director - Basketball
/ Coach
Peter is a lifelong Yonkers resident and community activist, is deeply involved in sports and youth mentorship. He has coached basketball at various schools across Westchester, leading teams to multiple championships. A dedicated supporter of education, he donates school supplies and helps students secure mentorships and scholarships.
In 2018, Peter founded PS Charities and is a longtime member of Rotary International. He spearheaded the renovation of two basketball courts and a playground at John Barton Park and helped create an anti-bullying initiative through basketball programs. As the immediate past president of the Rotary Club of the Hudson Valley, he played a key role in launching a groundbreaking breast cancer early detection program in Westchester.
Peter is passionate about sports, youth development, and community service, dedicating his time, knowledge, and resources to making a lasting impact

Chaquon Jones
Program Director - Cheerleading
/ Coach
Chaquon, a Westchester County native, is a New York State-certified School Counselor and experienced cheerleading coach with over 25 years in the sport. Her passion for mentoring youth led her to establish Reign All Stars, where she helps student-athletes build strong training habits, develop skills in cheer, dance, tumbling, and stunts, and compete at top-tier events. She emphasizes discipline, patience, and respect, fostering well-rounded athletes on and off the mat. As a certified coach and US All Star Federation member, she remains committed to shaping the next generation of cheerleaders

USA FOOTBALL
& INTERSCHOLASTIC
CERTIFIED COACHES
At Premiere Athletes, we prioritize coaching at every level because we believe great coaching is essential in developing young athletes.
Our coaches are both USA Football Certified and Interscholastic Certified, ensuring they meet the highest standards of excellence.
We invest in our coaching staff by providing ongoing education and support. Through close collaboration, we equip our coaches with the skills and psychological insights needed to deliver a consistent, positive experience for every athlete. This unified approach ensures that all our coaches teach with the same philosophy and focus.
Our coaching curriculum is thoughtfully designed to maximize the effectiveness of our techniques, providing athletes with the tools they need to succeed both on and off the field.