On Thursday, January 25, 2018 Up2Us Sports’ Operation Coach coaches Jacinto Molina, Miles Chinn, and Raynard Jones were recognized at the Miami HEAT game as part of the Miami HEAT Charitable Fund's interest in recognizing military veterans that serve in our communities. The coaches were invited to dinner prior to the game and attended the game with their guests. Coach Jacinto, Miles, and Raynard were also supported by four fellow Up2Us Coaches - Emilie, Fritz, Joslyne and Malachi.
Coach Jacinto (CENTER) served in the United States Marine Corps as a Field Cannoneer, reaching the rank of Corporal. He serves as a coach in the Homestead community at enFamilia. Read Jacinto’s story on our blog here.
Coach Miles (LEFT) served five and a half years in the United States Marine Corps as a Marine Security Guard for U.S. Embassies around the world, reaching the rank of E5 Sergeant. He serves as a coach at the Overtown Youth Center.
Coach Raynard (RIGHT) served four years in the United States Army as a Military Policeman, reaching the rank of E4. Coach Raynard also served 13 months on the front lines during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is serving as a coach at DIBIA Dream.
The HEAT are a founding partner of Operation Coach, Up2Us Sports’ veteran coaching initiative. Since their initial investment in 2014, the program has been implemented across the country and has gained additional investments from ESPN and federal and state governments. In late 2017, the HEAT announced a new five-year commitment to the program’s ongoing growth and sustainability.
Jacinto, Miles and Raynard’s positions are generously funded by a grant from the Corporation for National & Community Service’s AmeriCorps program, with support from the Miami HEAT Charitable Fund.
