About Us
Who We Are
Backfield in Motion is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of inner-city youth through education and athletics. Founded in 2000 by Joe Davis, Backfield in Motion was created to bridge the gap between opportunities available to inner-city youth and those in more affluent areas. Our mission is to foster educational excellence and personal growth, using athletics as a motivating force to improve academic performance and life skills.
Over the years, we have developed a comprehensive program that emphasizes literacy and numeracy, ensuring that every child we serve has the opportunity to achieve a high school diploma and pursue higher education or vocational training. Our curriculum is enriched with social and emotional learning activities, character education, and real-world experiences, preparing our students for success both in and out of the classroom.
We are governed by an 11-member volunteer Board of Directors and supported by a network of corporate partners and community organizations. Our dedicated team of certified teachers from Metro Nashville Schools, mentors, and volunteers work tirelessly to create a supportive, engaging, and empowering environment for our students. Through our holistic approach, we aim to educate, engage, and empower at-risk youth, helping them reach their full potential intellectually, socially, and emotionally.
What We AreÂ
Backfield in Motion is an extended learning program dedicated to supporting at-risk, low-income students of Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS). As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we aim to bridge the opportunity gap by providing comprehensive educational and athletic programs tailored to the needs of our community.
Each year, we serve over 700 students, offering them a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive. Our program focuses on:
​
-
Academic Support: We provide rigorous academic assistance, particularly in literacy and numeracy, ensuring our students meet and exceed educational standards. Certified teachers from MNPS deliver personalized instruction and targeted interventions to address individual learning needs.
-
Holistic Development: Our curriculum includes social and emotional learning activities that promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, social skills, and responsible decision-making. We believe in nurturing the whole child, preparing them for success in all areas of life.
-
Athletic Engagement: We leverage the power of sports to motivate and engage students. Athletics teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, which translate into better academic performance and personal growth.
​
Backfield in Motion's programs are made possible through the generous support of:
-
Government Grants: We receive funding from various government sources dedicated to educational improvement and youth development.
-
Nonprofit Foundations: We partner with numerous foundations that share our commitment to empowering at-risk youth and providing educational opportunities.
-
Private Donors: The contributions of individuals and corporate partners play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding our programs. Their support allows us to offer enriching experiences and essential resources to our students.​
What We DoÂ
Backfield in Motion is dedicated to fostering teamwork and building strong academic and social foundations for our students. We challenge students with rigorous instructional methods and set high academic expectations, ensuring they are well-prepared for future success. As students progress from elementary and middle school, they are encouraged to participate in varsity-level sports and engage in a comprehensive college and career readiness curriculum. This curriculum includes college visits, admissions counseling, internships, and job training, providing a clear pathway to higher education and career opportunities.
Throughout the program, our certified, state-licensed teachers prepare students for critical exams such as TNReady, ACT, SAT, and other placement tests. Our classes feature differentiated instruction, allowing for targeted interventions and support services tailored to each student's needs. With extended school days, students receive more time on task and individualized academic reinforcement.
In addition to academic support, students benefit from character education and team-building activities led by our program coordinators during enrichment time. These activities help students develop essential life skills and build a strong sense of community.
Backfield in Motion is proud to be one of the only programs in Davidson County that employs certified, state-licensed teachers, ensuring the highest quality of education for our students. Through our holistic approach, we strive to empower our students to reach their full potential both academically and personally.
