In today’s increasingly competitive sports landscape, the challenges facing youth athletes are more complex than ever. From limited access to quality training facilities to the rising costs of participation, the barriers to success can seem insurmountable for many young people. DOJOX was created to break down these barriers and empower youth athletes with the tools, support, and community engagement necessary to thrive. With a mission rooted in holistic development and a vision that extends far beyond the playing field, DOJOX is more than just a training program—it’s a movement dedicated to uplifting communities through the power of sports.
A Mission Driven by Community Impact
DOJOX was founded by Zach Lush and Mike Sudermann, two passionate leaders with a shared vision of transforming youth sports training. Joined by Steve Kinsley as Head of Finance their mission is simple yet profound: to provide accessible, high-quality training opportunities that not only develop athletic skills but also foster personal growth and community connection. This mission is not just about producing better athletes; it’s about building stronger character, whole-hearted, well-rounded individuals who reach their fullest potential and make positive contributions to their worlds they touch.
At the heart of DOJOX’s mission is its commitment to community impact. The company recognizes that sports can be a powerful force for good, particularly in underserved communities where opportunities are often scarce. By placing DOJOX training facilities, known as DOJO boxes, directly within these communities, Zach and Mike are ensuring that every young athlete, regardless of their background, has the chance to succeed.
Joe Thrasher, the Executive Director of the nonprofit wing of DOJOX, emphasizes this point: “Our goal is to bring these training opportunities to areas that need them most. We want to see DOJOX boxes in communities where they can make the biggest difference—providing not just a place to train, but a safe space for young people to grow, learn, and connect with others.”
The Vision: Building Stronger Communities Through Sports
DOJOX’s vision goes beyond the individual athlete to encompass entire communities. The founders believe that by investing in youth sports, they can create a ripple effect that strengthens the fabric of the communities they serve. This vision is rooted in the belief that when young people have the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence, and work towards their goals, they become more engaged, responsible, and resilient members of their communities.
Statistics highlight the importance of such initiatives. According to the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, only 38% of children aged 6 to 12 played team sports on a regular basis in 2021, down from 45% in 2008. The decline is even more pronounced in low-income communities, where access to sports programs is often limited. This is where DOJOX comes in, bridging the gap by bringing state-of-the-art training directly to those who need it most.
DOJOx Nonprofit: Extending the Reach
The nonprofit arm of DOJOX, known as DOJOX Guardians and led by Joe Thrasher, is a critical component of the company’s strategy to maximize its community impact. This initiative is designed to extend the reach of DOJOX beyond traditional markets, targeting areas where youth athletes have the least access to quality training facilities. The nonprofit’s mission is to provide these resources at little to no cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent young athletes from reaching their full potential.
“We’re not just about selling a product,” says Thrasher. “We’re about changing lives. Our nonprofit initiatives are focused on getting DOJOX boxes into schools, community centers, and other places where they can make the most significant impact. It’s about giving every kid the chance to succeed, no matter where they come from.”
The DOJOx Difference: More Than Just a Training Facility
What sets DOJOX apart from other sports training programs is its holistic approach. The DOJOX box is not just a place for physical training; it’s a community hub where young people can build relationships, learn life skills, and develop the mental toughness needed to navigate life’s challenges. Each DOJOX box is equipped with the latest training technology and is staffed by experienced coaches who are not only experts in their fields but also mentors who are dedicated to the personal growth of each athlete.
DOJOX also provides comprehensive training programs that are tailored to the needs of the communities they serve. These programs are designed to address the specific challenges faced by youth athletes in different regions, ensuring that each DOJOX box is not just a one-size-fits-all solution but a customized resource that meets the unique needs of its community.
Zach and Mike’s Vision: A Future of Expanded Impact
Looking to the future, Zach Lush and Mike Sudermann are committed to expanding DOJOX’s impact. They envision a world where DOJOX boxes are present in communities across the country, providing a consistent, high-quality training experience for all youth athletes. This expansion will be guided by the same principles that have driven the company from the beginning: a commitment to accessibility, community engagement, and holistic development.
The founders are particularly excited about the potential of the nonprofit wing to reach new communities and create lasting change. By partnering with schools, community organizations, and local governments, DOJOX plans to bring its innovative training model to more young people than ever before.
“We’re just getting started,” says Lush. “The potential for DOJOX to make a difference is enormous. We’re not just training athletes; we’re building communities, shaping futures, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.”
Why DOJOx Matters
In a world where the playing field is often uneven, DOJOX is leveling it—one community at a time. Through its innovative training programs, commitment to accessibility, and focus on holistic development, DOJOX is changing the way we think about youth sports. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about winning in life.
For parents, coaches, and community leaders, the message is clear: DOJOX is more than just a training facility; it’s a catalyst for change. By investing in the development of young athletes, DOJOX is investing in the future of our communities.
The journey of DOJOX is just beginning, but the impact is already being felt. As the company continues to grow and expand its reach, the vision of a world where every young athlete has the opportunity to succeed—both on and off the field—becomes a reality.
