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National Academy of Athletics Expands to Denver South with New Franchise Location

This press release was originally published by Fox31 Denver on June 10, 2025. Read the original article HERE.

SANTA ROSA, CA, UNITED STATES, June 10, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — The National Academy of Athletics (NAofA), a leading provider of youth sports programming across the country, is proud to announce the launch of its newest franchise territory: Denver South, Colorado. This expansion is led by Area Captains and franchise owners Nick Raffensperger and Jonathan Gray, who bring a shared passion for sports, youth development, and community building.

This new franchise will bring NAofA’s signature programs, including camps, clinics, and leagues, to families in the Denver South region, giving kids more opportunities to get active, build confidence, and learn valuable life skills through recreational sports.

“Having grown up with sports playing a major role in my life, I’ve experienced firsthand how they can instill confidence, build character, and teach lifelong values,” said Jonathan Gray. “I’m incredibly excited to bring the National Academy of Athletics’ high-quality programming to the Denver area—expanding access to youth sports and creating opportunities that keep kids active while fostering meaningful community connections.”

“The lessons I learned in youth sports—teamwork, discipline, resilience, and the drive to improve—have been building blocks for my life,” said Nick Raffensperger. “They shaped the person I am today and helped me navigate challenges far beyond the field. I’m excited to extend the high-quality programming NAofA offers into the Denver area and look forward to the positive impact it will have on children in our communities.”

The National Academy of Athletics continues to grow its mission-driven franchise network, with each new location bringing its “talk.teach.PLAY!®” philosophy to life in more communities across the country.

“Denver South is a fast-growing community, and we’re thrilled to bring our trusted youth sports programs to the families there,” said Aaron Locks, Founder & CEO of the National Academy of Athletics. “With Jonathan and Nick at the helm, this region is in great hands. Their passion, leadership, and drive to make a difference will create powerful opportunities for kids to grow, play, and thrive. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead!”

The Denver South location will begin offering programming this coming Fall. For more information about upcoming camps and programs, visit: https://naofa.info/DenverSouth

About the National Academy of Athletics
The National Academy of Athletics is a premier provider of youth sports programs committed to enriching children’s lives through active sports participation. Emphasizing fun, skill enhancement, and character development, NAofA offers various sports programs tailored to engage young athletes of all ages and skill levels. With a mission to foster positive mental and physical growth in youth, NAofA ensures sports are enjoyable while imparting essential life skills. By training and certifying coaches, NAofA creates an enthusiastic environment where kids can develop a love for sports. Since its establishment in 2012, NAofA has become a trusted choice for families seeking top-notch sports experiences for their children.

Carleigh Boling
National Academy of Athletics
carleighb@naofathletics.com

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JOSH WALKER

3 weeks ago

NA of A is filled with great mentors, and coaches. It truly makes me feel positive knowing the culture here has an impact on our players enhancing their skillset, mindset and overall health. Na of A especially makes it easier for me as a coach for when I am provided with all the proper equipment and gear to ensure the children/players have everything they need in order to play hard and have fun!

Trip Dixon

2 weeks ago

Aaron and his team are absolutely top notch and have a genuine passion for teaching kids’ valuable life skills through sports and play. They’ve developed a program that fills the gap in many communities for youth sports that isn’t focused on hardcore competition and crazy travel schedules. You’re awesome. Great job NAofA!

Eve Given

3 months ago

Aaron Locks, founder of the National Academy of Athletics, has revolutionized youth sports development with his exceptional leadership and vision. His program provides an unmatched combination of skill-building, confidence development, and pure fun that keeps children engaged and excited about athletics. Aaron’s dedication to creating positive experiences is evident … More

Nick Raffensperger

a month ago

Starting our journey as a new franchisee with the National Academy of Athletics has been an absolutely phenomenal experience, and it’s all thanks to the incredible support from Aaron Lock and his dedicated team! From the initial onboarding to ongoing guidance, they have been nothing short of exceptional.
Aaron’s leadership and the team’s expertise have made the process seamless and truly empowering. They’ve provided comprehensive training, answered every question with patience and clarity, and made me feel like a valued part of the NAofA family from day one. Their commitment to franchisee success is evident in every interaction. I feel fully equipped and incredibly excited to grow our NAofA business, knowing I have such a strong and supportive network behind me. Five stars aren’t enough!

Sol

2 weeks ago

NAofA organized a Pickleball Camp in San Anselmo summer of 2025. My son and his friend attended and had a terrible experience. Due to this and the icky response from the owner of the camp, I highly recommend avoiding it.
First, while we
 were told to arrive at 8:45, on the first day but the instructor arrived at 9. I called to inform the office and the owner (Ben) about the missing instructor, he told me that he would call her to find out what was the matter (she showed up not only after to let us all into the court). When I wrote to him and mentioned the lateness as part of the reason we would not be returning, he surprised me by retorting that he had “proof” she wasn’t late- until I reminded him about my phone call to him.
They have a “password” system to protect the kids, but the instructor hands you the pickup form when you arrive (which has the code written on it) so it’s pointless. Furthermore, When I arrived to pick up my kid, the instructor was rushing off to try and get a couple of the kids who had left the court entirely on their own.
My son and his friend were bullied by another kid throughout the day. Despite the “anti bully” policy, the kid was invited back the next day.
The kids told me that no instruction was provided at all about pickleball. They were given balls and rackets and there were no other activities or involvement to keep them engaged. When they asked to take a break because they were hot, the woman told them they had to keep playing. When I informed the owner about this behavior, he retorted that it was their policy and that many kids were “struggling to participate” that day which is why she refused the breaks.
This doesn’t seem like a camp that’s all that motivated to keep kids engaged or having fun, and the defensive/gaslighting responses of the director suggests that it’s not run in a way that promotes safety or fun, or holds its own instructors accountable.
It’s don’t recommend the Pickleball Camp at all, and wouldn’t trust their other programs.

Eve Given

3 months ago

Aaron Locks, founder of the National Academy of Athletics, has revolutionized youth sports development with his exceptional leadership and vision. His program provides an unmatched combination of skill-building, confidence development, and pure fun that keeps children engaged and excited about athletics. Aaron’s dedication to creating positive experiences is evident … More

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