our people
Meet Our
Leadership
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Meet Our Leadership
Our People
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Reginald Wilcox
founder & president
As a former Division I and professional athlete, Reginald Wilcox brings decades of playing and coaching experience to the development of young athletes. Having coached at both the high school and collegiate levels, he has dedicated his career to mentoring and preparing the next generation of athletes for success both on and off the field.
With years of experience serving as an Athletic Director, Reggie has overseen and developed athletic programs that have helped more than 300 student-athletes earn college scholarships under his leadership. His commitment to athlete development, discipline, and academic success has opened doors for countless young athletes to pursue opportunities at the next level.
As the Founder and President of Elite Academy Sports and founder of the Elite Academy Ducks (EAD) Basketball Program, EAD FC Soccer Club, and EAD Futsal, Reginald has built nationally recognized competitive programs centered on elite development, discipline, and character. EAD has grown into a national brand, with teams competing in multiple states across the country. Under his leadership, EAD teams have earned national rankings and captured championships across multiple age divisions.
Through his vision and commitment to excellence, Reginald continues to create opportunities for student-athletes to grow, compete at a high level, and reach their full potential in sports, academics, and life.
Meet Our Leadership
Our People
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Reginald Wilcox
founder & president
As a former Division I and professional athlete, Reginald Wilcox brings decades of playing and coaching experience to the development of young athletes. Having coached at both the high school and collegiate levels, he has dedicated his career to mentoring and preparing the next generation of athletes for success both on and off the field.
With years of experience serving as an Athletic Director, Reggie has overseen and developed athletic programs that have helped more than 300 student-athletes earn college scholarships under his leadership. His commitment to athlete development, discipline, and academic success has opened doors for countless young athletes to pursue opportunities at the next level.
As the Founder and President of Elite Academy Sports and founder of the Elite Academy Ducks (EAD) Basketball Program, EAD FC Soccer Club, and EAD Futsal, Reginald has built nationally recognized competitive programs centered on elite development, discipline, and character. EAD has grown into a national brand, with teams competing in multiple states across the country. Under his leadership, EAD teams have earned national rankings and captured championships across multiple age divisions.
Through his vision and commitment to excellence, Reginald continues to create opportunities for student-athletes to grow, compete at a high level, and reach their full potential in sports, academics, and life.
Shani Wilcox
chief operating officer
With over 20 years of experience in education and organizational leadership, Shani Wilcox serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at EAS. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to fostering academic excellence, operational efficiency, and the holistic growth of students and staff alike. Her journey began in 2004 as a teacher’s assistant, where she developed a strong foundation in instructional support and classroom dynamics. By 2009, she transitioned into a lead teaching role, consistently championing student achievement through innovative instruction and inclusive practices.
Shani’s leadership capabilities extend beyond the traditional classroom. She previously served as the Director of Education in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area. In this pivotal role, she successfully elevated their education program, helping student-athletes reach new heights academically while balancing their rigorous athletic commitments. Her ability to integrate educational best practices into dynamic, sports-focused environments highlights her strategic vision and dedication to comprehensive student success.
As a respected leader and mentor, Shani has played a key role in curriculum planning, peer mentoring, and instructional leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is certified to teach all core subjects in grades 4–8. Her extensive professional development includes certifications in ESL (English as a Second Language) and Reading Academy, as well as specialized training in conflict resolution, child abuse awareness and mandated reporting, FERPA compliance, youth mental health and first aid, CPR, science lab safety, blood-borne pathogen exposure prevention, and student code of conduct and compliance. These credentials reflect her unwavering commitment to maintaining safe, supportive, and responsive environments where all individuals can thrive.
Shani’s professional philosophy centers on creating spaces where every team member and student feels valued, heard, and inspired to reach their full potential. She strives to make learning and operations meaningful by connecting strategies to real-life experiences and encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. As COO at EAS, Shani brings her deep operational experience, compassionate leadership, and dedication to whole-child education to drive the organization’s mission forward, ensuring success both in the classroom and beyond.
Shani Wilcox
chief operating officer
With over 20 years of experience in education and organizational leadership, Shani Wilcox serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at EAS. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to fostering academic excellence, operational efficiency, and the holistic growth of students and staff alike. Her journey began in 2004 as a teacher’s assistant, where she developed a strong foundation in instructional support and classroom dynamics. By 2009, she transitioned into a lead teaching role, consistently championing student achievement through innovative instruction and inclusive practices.
Shani’s leadership capabilities extend beyond the traditional classroom. She previously served as the Director of Education in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area. In this pivotal role, she successfully elevated their education program, helping student-athletes reach new heights academically while balancing their rigorous athletic commitments. Her ability to integrate educational best practices into dynamic, sports-focused environments highlights her strategic vision and dedication to comprehensive student success.
As a respected leader and mentor, Shani has played a key role in curriculum planning, peer mentoring, and instructional leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is certified to teach all core subjects in grades 4–8. Her extensive professional development includes certifications in ESL (English as a Second Language) and Reading Academy, as well as specialized training in conflict resolution, child abuse awareness and mandated reporting, FERPA compliance, youth mental health and first aid, CPR, science lab safety, blood-borne pathogen exposure prevention, and student code of conduct and compliance. These credentials reflect her unwavering commitment to maintaining safe, supportive, and responsive environments where all individuals can thrive.
Shani’s professional philosophy centers on creating spaces where every team member and student feels valued, heard, and inspired to reach their full potential. She strives to make learning and operations meaningful by connecting strategies to real-life experiences and encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. As COO at EAS, Shani brings her deep operational experience, compassionate leadership, and dedication to whole-child education to drive the organization’s mission forward, ensuring success both in the classroom and beyond.
Meet Our Leadership
Our People
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Amilcar Castro
Technical Director
Amilcar Castro is a seasoned soccer executive and elite coach whose career bridges the gap between high-level tactical instruction and character mentorship. With a foundation as an elite athlete and a representative for the U.S. World Military team, Amilcar brings a deep understanding of the game’s technical and psychological demands. A veteran U.S. Army Sergeant and USSF-licensed coach, he leverages military precision and a bilingual, global perspective to architect merit-based environments where soccer serves as a classroom for life.
Throughout his tenure as a CEO and Technical Director, Amilcar has established an unrivaled track record of elite player development. His pathways have successfully placed over 30 players into National Team systems—including the U.S., Mexico, Grenada, Puerto Rico, and El Salvador—as well as dozens of student-athletes into NCAA Division I programs.
Most notably, he has transitioned over 15 professional male and female players into the world’s most competitive leagues, including the Bundesliga, MLS, Liga BBVA MX, Liga MX Femenil, A-League, Première Ligue, USL Championship, WPSL, and USL W League.
Amilcar’s leadership is anchored in the "Five Pillars": hard work, discipline, dedication, attitude, and desire. He specializes in implementing an intense, dynamic style of play that emphasizes "possession with a purpose," ensuring every athlete is as tactically sharp as they are technically proficient. His mission remains steadfast: to foster a professional culture that develops athletes who are as prepared for the world as they are for the pitch. By combining sophisticated technical expertise with the values forged during his military service, Amilcar Castro continues to produce world-class talent and disciplined leaders for the next generation.
Meet Our Leadership
Our People
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Amilcar Castro
Technical Director
Amilcar Castro is a seasoned soccer executive and elite coach whose career bridges the gap between high-level tactical instruction and character mentorship. With a foundation as an elite athlete and a representative for the U.S. World Military team, Amilcar brings a deep understanding of the game’s technical and psychological demands. A veteran U.S. Army Sergeant and USSF-licensed coach, he leverages military precision and a bilingual, global perspective to architect merit-based environments where soccer serves as a classroom for life.
Throughout his tenure as a CEO and Technical Director, Amilcar has established an unrivaled track record of elite player development. His pathways have successfully placed over 30 players into National Team systems—including the U.S., Mexico, Grenada, Puerto Rico, and El Salvador—as well as dozens of student-athletes into NCAA Division I programs.
Most notably, he has transitioned over 15 professional male and female players into the world’s most competitive leagues, including the Bundesliga, MLS, Liga BBVA MX, Liga MX Femenil, A-League, Première Ligue, USL Championship, WPSL, and USL W League.
Amilcar’s leadership is anchored in the "Five Pillars": hard work, discipline, dedication, attitude, and desire. He specializes in implementing an intense, dynamic style of play that emphasizes "possession with a purpose," ensuring every athlete is as tactically sharp as they are technically proficient. His mission remains steadfast: to foster a professional culture that develops athletes who are as prepared for the world as they are for the pitch. By combining sophisticated technical expertise with the values forged during his military service, Amilcar Castro continues to produce world-class talent and disciplined leaders for the next generation.
Madelynn Castro
Coach
Madelynn Castro is a dedicated mentor and strategist who brings a rare blend of elite athletic experience and academic excellence to our community. A graduate of Oklahoma Christian University, Madelynn earned an interdisciplinary degree focused on Psychology, Family Science, and Criminal Justice, giving her a unique and holistic perspective on leadership, personal development, and team success. Her educational background allows her to understand the psychological and social dynamics that shape both individuals and high-performing teams.
Madelynn’s athletic journey is rooted in high-level competition. She competed in the prestigious NTX Elite youth soccer circuit before making a significant impact at the collegiate level. From 2021 to 2023, she was a key contributor at Seminole State College, helping the program compete in two National Championships before completing her collegiate career at Oklahoma Christian University. Known for her technical ability, disciplined footwork, and creative style of play, Madelynn earned a reputation as an instinctive and dynamic player on the field.
At the core of Madelynn’s philosophy is a commitment to authentic growth and development. She believes that true innovation—whether in sports, academics, or life—is built upon mastering the fundamentals. By emphasizing technical excellence and disciplined preparation, she empowers athletes and students to develop confidence, creativity, and their own unique style. We are thrilled to have Madelynn Castro as part of our community as she helps inspire and develop the next generation of talent.
Madelynn Castro
Coach
Madelynn Castro is a dedicated mentor and strategist who brings a rare blend of elite athletic experience and academic excellence to our community. A graduate of Oklahoma Christian University, Madelynn earned an interdisciplinary degree focused on Psychology, Family Science, and Criminal Justice, giving her a unique and holistic perspective on leadership, personal development, and team success. Her educational background allows her to understand the psychological and social dynamics that shape both individuals and high-performing teams.
Madelynn’s athletic journey is rooted in high-level competition. She competed in the prestigious NTX Elite youth soccer circuit before making a significant impact at the collegiate level. From 2021 to 2023, she was a key contributor at Seminole State College, helping the program compete in two National Championships before completing her collegiate career at Oklahoma Christian University. Known for her technical ability, disciplined footwork, and creative style of play, Madelynn earned a reputation as an instinctive and dynamic player on the field.
At the core of Madelynn’s philosophy is a commitment to authentic growth and development. She believes that true innovation—whether in sports, academics, or life—is built upon mastering the fundamentals. By emphasizing technical excellence and disciplined preparation, she empowers athletes and students to develop confidence, creativity, and their own unique style. We are thrilled to have Madelynn Castro as part of our community as she helps inspire and develop the next generation of talent.
Meet Our Leadership
Our People
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Athalie Palomo
COACH
Athalie Palomo is a professional soccer player, mentor, and coach recognized for her leadership, competitive drive, and dedication to athlete development both on and off the field. Since making her professional debut on July 17, 2023, in the Campeón de Campeones final against Club América Femenil, Athalie has established herself as a key contributor at the professional level. Her accomplishments include winning two Campeón de Campeones titles (2023 and 2024) and helping secure the Liga BBVA MX Femenil Apertura 2023 Championship title. She also contributed to Dallas Trinity FC reaching the semifinals during the club’s inaugural season in the USL Super League.
Internationally, Athalie proudly represented the Mexico women's national under-20 football team at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in France and competed in the 2019 Sud Ladies Cup, gaining valuable experience on the international stage. Prior to her professional career, she played four standout seasons with the Pittsburgh Panthers women's soccer, totaling 5,915 minutes and demonstrating consistency, discipline, and leadership throughout her collegiate career.
Beyond competing, Athalie is deeply passionate about coaching and mentoring young athletes. She has led instructional training sessions, organized structured practices, facilitated player evaluations, and provided individualized feedback to support technical growth, confidence, and teamwork. Her coaching philosophy centers on creating positive and supportive environments where athletes can develop both as players and individuals. She also served as a Coaching Assistant with the Riverhounds Academy Grassroots program in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, helping develop youth players while balancing her responsibilities as a student-athlete.
In addition to soccer, Athalie is actively involved in community outreach and youth engagement initiatives, volunteering at charity events, participating in public speaking opportunities, and promoting the game through programs designed to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes.
Meet Our Leadership
Our People
The driving force behind Elite Academy & Sports — experienced educators and champion athletes united by one standard: excellence.
Athalie Palomo
COACH
Athalie Palomo is a professional soccer player, mentor, and coach recognized for her leadership, competitive drive, and dedication to athlete development both on and off the field. Since making her professional debut on July 17, 2023, in the Campeón de Campeones final against Club América Femenil, Athalie has established herself as a key contributor at the professional level. Her accomplishments include winning two Campeón de Campeones titles (2023 and 2024) and helping secure the Liga BBVA MX Femenil Apertura 2023 Championship title. She also contributed to Dallas Trinity FC reaching the semifinals during the club’s inaugural season in the USL Super League.
Internationally, Athalie proudly represented the Mexico women's national under-20 football team at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in France and competed in the 2019 Sud Ladies Cup, gaining valuable experience on the international stage. Prior to her professional career, she played four standout seasons with the Pittsburgh Panthers women's soccer, totaling 5,915 minutes and demonstrating consistency, discipline, and leadership throughout her collegiate career.
Beyond competing, Athalie is deeply passionate about coaching and mentoring young athletes. She has led instructional training sessions, organized structured practices, facilitated player evaluations, and provided individualized feedback to support technical growth, confidence, and teamwork. Her coaching philosophy centers on creating positive and supportive environments where athletes can develop both as players and individuals. She also served as a Coaching Assistant with the Riverhounds Academy Grassroots program in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, helping develop youth players while balancing her responsibilities as a student-athlete.
In addition to soccer, Athalie is actively involved in community outreach and youth engagement initiatives, volunteering at charity events, participating in public speaking opportunities, and promoting the game through programs designed to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes.
