About Us
Meet the man behind the mission to teach youth the fundamentals of sports through team work, commitment, self- discipline, and accountability, Mr. Eric Hatley, Sr.
Eric Hatley was born and raised in Gurdon Arkansas where he excelled in football, basketball and track. While attending Gurdon High School he played under the great Coach, John Ware. He received honors in football, basketball, and track, however his "love & basketball" was his greatest passion. After graduation he was selected to play in the All Stars for the International USA Tour team that traveled to Belgium, Europe. Then during his return from Europe, Eric committed to play basketball for Crowley’s Ridge College in Paragould, Arkansas.
Looking towards his future ambitions, Eric then transferred to Wiley College in Marshall, Texas where he graduated as Wiley's Point Guard with his bachelor degree in Business Administration. Beginning to live out those future ambitions, he decided to pursue several pro camps & combines, later earning his induction into the Gurdon High School Hall Of Fame. Eric went semi-pro for a while, all while serving his community and youth as a full-time juvenile probation officer.
A father of three, motivational speaker, mentor- trainer, and an entrepreneur, Eric has been fulfilling his dream since 2007. His first venture was non other than Tip-Off Basketball serving his home town of Gurdon Arkansas, then bringing that same passion to East Texas, offering EDH Basketball Club Foundation in 2014. Eric has been an amazing influence on many youth and young adults, boys and girls ages 5 and up. His faith and obedience has led to his unfailing focus on mentoring, fundamental basketball drills, life skills and sharing the word of God.
Eric Hatley, Sr.
CEO & Founder, EDH Basketball Club Foundation
My vision is to provide mentorship programs for the youth in a fun and safe atmosphere where they can grow their character, values, and life skills that will shape them to become responsible, productive citizens of the community. Team building, service to the community, unity, and ethical behaviors are at the core of everything EDH represents.
Meet Our Board Members
Vice President
Dr. Shalonda Adams
As a well known Doctor of Education, motivational and spiritual speaker, entrepreneur, professional educator, student success coordinator, transformational leader, and decorated member of the community, Dr. Shalonda gives her all to everything she does. She has led the change in education transformation, youth leadership development, Christ centered fellowship programs, economic developments, as well as many other attributes, including equality and social justices that have major impacts for the future.
Treasurer
Rico Willis, Mayor Pro Tem
A dedicated leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate, Rico spent 12 years serving as the Director of Student Activities and Multicultural Affairs at Northeast Texas Community College. During his tenure, he developed innovative programs, coordinated large-scale events, and created opportunities that enriched the lives of students and strengthened community engagement. These experiences laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey and commitment to economic development.
Secretary
Brandy Hogan
Brandy is the definition of a servant leader. She has over 25 years experience working with youth starting as a volunteer coach, mentor, and team mom. She began her career wearing many hats; director of youth afterschool and summer programs, athletic director, aquatic recreational sports and facilities director, then as corporate sales & training manager and community liaison. She believes in empowering youth and the community through education, support, mentorship, love, sports, and plants.
Chair
Eric Alford
Coach Alford or as some may know him, "Coach E," others may know him as Sergeant Alford, however he is known, he is a proud Longview Lobos graduate, with a heart passionate about serving. From his 14 year career in the Military, over 18 years serving the Police Department , to more than 16 years dedicated to coaching youth sports, Eric has demonstrated his commitment and loyalty both on and off the field. After his experience with the minor and major leagues, he started EA Sports Development to help youth at all ages be successful.
Chair
Audra Caroll
With a dedication and passion to build and transform, Audra started her business, Alpha Elite Designs, doing exactly that. She is a visionary with an eye for design, but when she's not building or remodeling houses, she is still building community engagement through her acts of service. Audra is always thinking of others and she uses her talents to serve those in her community, especially the youth. Its important to give them a good solid foundation in which they can build on, much similar to the houses she designs, they all start with a firm foundation.
Chair
Catalina Lopez
The award winning and respected entrepreneur of Aroma Cleaning Company, Catalina proudly serves her community and family in many capacities. She is a devoted wife and mother who has accomplished running a full time household and a full time business, while organizing events within the community, networking with community leaders, donating to many beneficial causes, and serving others with a grateful heart. Her tenacity for success shows in the way she supports her community with a smile on her face and joy in her heart.