ABOUT US
Our
Story
Flank Football was born out of adversity.
When the pandemic shut down all team sports in 2020, middle-schooler Marlon Wiest refused to quit. He rallied 15 friends and asked Coach Teddie Anderson to keep training — no matter what.
From park to park, city to city, the athletes stayed committed. Parents saw the program as essential for their kids’ mental and physical well-being.
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What started as a small group of determined young players has grown into a powerful youth sports movement — one built on resilience, brotherhood, opportunity, and the belief that every athlete deserves a chance.
In 2025, Flank Football officially became a nonprofit so that financial barriers would never block a young athlete from the future they deserve.
MISSION
Flank Football develops disciplined, well-rounded student-athletes prepared for success in sports, academics, and life. We use football as a vehicle to build character, confidence, and community.
A world where every young athlete — regardless of background — has access to high-level training, academic support, and opportunities that lead to lifelong success.
VISION
15 athletes refuse to quit during the shutdown.
2020
The Birth of Resilience:
Teams compete in Phenom, Showdown Series, Infantry, and other regional circuits — earning multiple titles.
2022 - 2024
Growth & Championships:
A commitment to leveling the playing field for all students.
2025
Nonprofit Status Established:
OUR
TIMELINE
Training continues despite protests and field closures. Tournaments begin.
2021
Unstoppable Momentum:
OUR CORE PILLARS
Academic
Guidance
tutoring, grade monitoring, study support
Health &
Wellness
nutrition, mental health awareness, strength training
College
Access
recruiting guidance, campus visits
Structured Mentorship
leadership development and personal growth
OUR FOUNDING VISION & STRATEGIC DIRECTION
Our founding leadership team brings the vision and expertise that drives Flank Football’s mission. The Head Coach & Founder launched the program during the 2020 sports shutdown to inspire athletes on and off the field and continues to expand a holistic model that includes academic, health, and college support.
The Co-Founder & Partner strengthens the organization through strategic planning, logistics, administration, and marketing. Together, they guided Flank Football’s transition to an NGO in May 2025, ensuring donor support directly removes financial barriers and provides accessible, high-quality training and academic opportunities for student leaders from all backgrounds.
OUR COACHES
ADAM BALABAN
Coach
Coach Adam has coached football since 2017, specializing in wide receiver and defensive back development. A former college player, he brings firsthand experience, strong fundamentals, and a detail-driven approach to every athlete he trains.
He has coached internationally and worked with players of all ages, from youth to college level, focusing on technique, football IQ, and position-specific excellence.
Committed to developing complete athletes, Coach Adam views The Flank as a way to give young players access to high-level training and opportunities to grow. His philosophy centers on discipline, precision, and helping athletes reach their full potential.
HANNIBAL THOMAS
Coach
Hannibal Thomas, founder of Youth Athletic Sports (YAS), is a former NFL wide receiver and current receivers coach at Viewpoint High School. With experience as a college standout at the University of Cincinnati, and Youth Sports advocate, Hannibal brings leadership, structure, and heart to every field.
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Through Youth Athletic Sports (YAS, he's built a fun, inclusive Youth Sports program focused on fundamentals, sportsmanship, and confidence.
NICK PAUL
Coach
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Nick brings over seven years of high school football coaching experience, specializing in defensive strategy and player development. Currently serving as Varsity Defensive Coordinator at Oak Park High School, Paul has built a reputation for developing strong defensive units and mentoring young athletes.
His coaching journey began at Agoura High School (2018-2020), where he served as JV Defensive Coordinator. In 2021, Paul joined Oak Park High School, spending four years refining the JV defense before being promoted to his current varsity role. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a consistent commitment to teaching fundamental techniques, fostering team unity, and preparing student-athletes for success both on and off the field.
