ABOUT US

Our Mission - Our Game Plan

At the heart of the NOVA Bulls Organization lies a steadfast commitment to nurturing the multidimensional growth of our youth and young adults. Our unwavering mission is to cultivate a sanctuary, a haven where individuals from diverse backgrounds converge to discover and unleash their fullest capabilities. Through our meticulously crafted sports programs, we embark on a journey, empowering each participant to grasp the zenith of their potential.

We firmly grasp the profound significance of not just imparting athletic prowess but also providing an environment teeming with educational opportunities for personal evolution. Within our sheltered confines, we forge a sanctuary where growth and learning intertwine harmoniously.

Our bedrock principles of teamwork, respect, and empowerment serve as guiding stars illuminating the path toward collective achievement. We ardently believe that by fostering a culture entrenched in collaboration, reverence, and the fueling of individual empowerment, we fortify the very foundation of our community's success.

In our pursuit, we embody the age-old wisdom that it indeed "takes a village to raise a child." It is within this ethos that we invite kindred spirits, passionate advocates, and spirited individuals to join us in our noble cause. Together, we aspire to sculpt a future where every young mind flourishes, supported by the strength of a united community dedicated to their holistic development.

Our Core Values

EMPOWER

COMPETE

INTEGRITY

HUMILITY

RESPONSIBILITY

Building Foundations For Life While Making An Impact Today

The NOVA Bulls Organization enriches our players and facilitates sustainable personal development by encouraging higher education and educating them on life skills such as financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

In conjunction with cultivating an inclusive culture that encourages mental health awareness, along with individual and social responsibility, our Semi-Professional team members serve the community as mentors to our AAU players. While “paying it forward,” our mentors focus on antibullying, anti-violence, and anti-drugs. They also impress upon the mentees the importance of self-awareness, pursuing knowledge, community enrichment, teamwork, good sportsmanship, and self-respect.

When our players depart our organization, they are equipped with the skills to succeed on and off the court.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR IMPACT

EMPOWERING youth and adolescents to flourish HOLISTICALLY.

Our Story

Amid the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic, Alora Henry stood amidst a society grappling with pressing issues—lack of social irresponsibility, youth homelessness, substance abuse, violence, and mental health struggles. It was amidst this chaos that she chose not to remain idle. Believing fervently in the unifying force of sports, she set out on a mission to bring about tangible change. Thus, the NOVA Bulls Organization was born—a beacon of hope for young adults and youth alike.

At the core of our organization lies an unwavering dedication to guiding and supporting young individuals as they navigate the often-tumultuous waters of life. Through mentorship that goes beyond the confines of sporting arenas, we strive to instill a profound sense of social responsibility and foster positive character development.

The NOVA Bulls Organization doesn't shy away from confronting societal issues head-on. From addressing substance abuse and preventing violence to raising awareness about mental health and supporting those experiencing homelessness, we endeavor to create a nurturing environment where young people can reclaim control over their lives and make choices that lead to a brighter future.

Our mission at NOVA Bulls transcends the boundaries of a typical sports program. We're not just about refining athletic skills; we're about unlocking the untapped potential within each individual. By providing comprehensive athletic training and invaluable life skills, we empower our youth to not only succeed but also make a lasting impact within their communities.

We envision a world where support is accessible to every community. A world where young minds flourish, honing their physical, emotional, and social capabilities alongside crucial life skills necessary for a prosperous future.

Through a holistic approach that intertwines sports with personal growth opportunities, we're building an ecosystem that nurtures healthy futures and drives significant societal change. Join us on this transformative journey as we march steadfastly towards a tomorrow illuminated by hope, resilience, and positive transformation. Together, let's forge a path to a brighter and more promising future.

Our Board of Directors

Alora Henry

Founder

Bio

Alora Henry, a distinguished native of St. Petersburg, Florida, was nurtured in a loving household alongside two younger siblings under the guidance of her devoted parents. Rooted deeply in the ethos of the Church of Christ, she embraced the values of community service from an early age, commencing her journey by assisting at the church daycare and extending her altruism to local nursing homes. Her upbringing instilled a profound passion for aiding those in need, fostering a commitment to serving others that continues to define her life's purpose.

Post high school, Alora made a selfless commitment to her country by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. While in service, she exemplified her unwavering dedication to the community by mentoring elementary school children and actively engaging in the Meals on Wheels Program, providing essential support to elderly and disabled citizens. Simultaneously, she pursued her educational aspirations, earning a nursing degree while serving her military duties. Throughout her distinguished career as a Registered Nurse (RN), Alora specialized in critical fields such as Intensive Care, Emergency Room, Cardiac Catheterization Lab, and Pediatric Behavioral Health. Her pursuit of diverse specialties aimed to enhance patient care through extensive knowledge and hands-on experience. As a key figure in Nursing Management, she undertook the pivotal role of guiding and supervising healthcare professionals, cultivating an environment defined by compassion, respect, and excellence. Her leadership ensured that every patient received comprehensive care at the pinnacle of quality standards.

Beyond her professional achievements, Alora finds profound fulfillment in her 19-year marriage and the joy of raising children actively engaged in sports, a testament to her unwavering commitment to both family and community.

Alora's association with the NOVA Bulls Organization embodies her enduring desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, further cementing her legacy as an individual who not only excels professionally but also embodies compassion and a relentless dedication to serving those around her.

DeMarcus Henry

Board Member

Bio

DeMarcus's upbringing as a military dependent exposed him to diverse cultures across Colorado Springs, Wurzburg (Germany), Enterprise (AL), and various Alaskan cities, ultimately graduating from Bartlett High School in Anchorage, AK. There, he not only excelled academically but also showcased his versatile talents by actively participating in basketball, track & field, chess, drama, and the German club.

Post-graduation, DeMarcus pursued studies in criminal justice at the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) while actively engaging with the Campfire Boys and Girls Club. This experience ignited his passion for guiding and mentoring troubled youth, unveiling his natural inclination towards altruism and a deep-seated fondness for working with children.

Embarking on a remarkable career journey, DeMarcus commenced his dedicated service to the nation as an active-duty member in the United States Air Force. His commendable achievements began with the accolade of Honor Graduate during Basic Military Training and continued as he graduated with honors from technical training as a Computer System Operator at Keesler AFB, MS. Progressing swiftly through the ranks, he attained the esteemed status of a subject matter expert in various operating systems, applications, and security components. His military tenure encompassed impactful endeavors, including supporting humanitarian missions (like Haiti relief operations), combating western US forest fires, and participating in major river flood rescues.

Simultaneously, DeMarcus realized his dreams of building a family while serving in the military, having met and married fellow Air Force member Alora Thompson. Their enduring union of nineteen years has been blessed with four adult children and an energetic seven-year-old who keeps their household vibrant. Beyond family life, DeMarcus actively coached youth baseball, soccer, and various recreational and Amateur Athletic Union basketball teams, embodying his dedication to nurturing young talents.

His profound belief in education led him to earn an Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Information Systems and pursue a double Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in Information Systems Management and Project Management.

As a revered figure in the NOVA Bulls Organization's board and a mentor figure, DeMarcus aspires to instill a passion for basketball and foster a thirst for knowledge among the community, weaving together his love for the game and commitment to education.

Melissa Hall

Board Member

Bio

Raised in Orlando, Florida, Melissa Hall was nurtured by a single mother who tirelessly provided for her family. Growing up with two siblings, Melissa developed an early passion for sports, engaging actively in dance, gymnastics, swim team, basketball, and cheerleading.

With a profound commitment to community service, Melissa's career path led her through roles in two non-profit organizations before assuming a full-time position with the United States Marine Corps. Concurrently, she serves as the Director of Administration for the esteemed NOVA Bulls Organization. Juggling the demands of work and family life, Melissa upholds the belief in prioritizing family while passionately advocating for the development and advancement of youth.

Married and a devoted mother to three children, Melissa epitomizes the essence of dedication to both family values and the betterment of the community. Her multifaceted roles reflect her unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact in both personal and professional spheres.

Landus Hall

Board Member

Bio

Landus Hall, the youngest and sole boy among two siblings, was raised by his late Ret. SGM Lorin Hall and Sandra Taylor, hailing from New Orleans within a military household. His affinity for basketball was sparked during a pivotal moment in seventh grade while at a Fort Benning, GA middle school. Initially unfamiliar with the game, Landus diligently honed his skills amidst the demands set by his father, balancing academics, chores, and the pursuit of basketball excellence. His aspirations led him to strive for a starting position on the inaugural basketball team at Spencer High School in Columbus, GA, where he dedicated himself to the sport for four years, drawing interest from several Division II NCAA programs. Regrettably, a lack of guidance in the collegiate recruiting process resulted in Landus graduating without any offers, compounded by a career-ending torn meniscus soon after.

Transitioning to Virginia State University (VSU), Landus attempted to join the basketball team, yet the previously healed meniscus injury caused significant discomfort, ultimately leading to surgery and the end of his basketball dreams. Armed with a degree in Psychology from VSU, Landus embarked on a career path devoted to aiding "at risk" youth at DeWitt Army Hospital, driven by his dedication to serve and assist younger generations in navigating life's complexities.

His journey continued as he ventured into teaching secondary education while concurrently pursuing an Information Technology (IT) degree from DeVry University. With an IT degree in hand, Landus transitioned reluctantly into the IT field to better support his family. The values instilled by his late father were instrumental in his success within one of the country's premier agencies, providing resilience and guidance in facing life's challenges.

Throughout adulthood, Landus actively engaged in basketball leagues across the NOVA area and ventured into coaching, starting with his youngest son at the age of six in the Boys & Girls Club. This passion led to years of coaching in the AAU circuit.

Fulfilling roles as a counselor, educator, and coach, Landus wholeheartedly embraced his ardor for mentoring youth, imparting wisdom garnered from his life experiences. An esteemed figure within the community, Landus is readily available to impart knowledge to those eager to learn.

Heather Swart

Board Member

Bio

Heather Swart, a native of Saugerties, New York, discovered her passion for basketball at a young age, engaging actively in local Youth Center and YMCA leagues. Her talent led her to excel in college basketball, where she became the leading scorer for Ulster County, subsequently earning a spot on the University of South Florida's (USF) team.

Post her graduation from USF, Heather embarked on a coaching journey, starting as the Head Coach for Clearwater Central Catholic High School’s basketball team, a role she held for three impactful years. Driven by a desire to give back to her roots, she returned to Saugerties, assuming the role of Associate Head Coach at both Saugerties Junior High School and Saugerties High School. Heather's coaching career further evolved as she took charge of the Ulster County Community College Women’s Basketball team, shaping the team's dynamics for three successful years.

Her involvement in the basketball domain expanded beyond coaching, diversifying into pivotal administrative roles. Heather served as the Executive Assistant for Smush Parker Elite, assumed the National Director of Basketball Operations position for the Mixed-Gender Basketball Association, and held the esteemed title of a USA Basketball-Certified Youth Development Coach.

Driven by a profound dedication to the sport and community enrichment, Heather joined the NOVA Bulls Organization, seeking to foster a love for basketball while positively impacting the community at large. Her extensive experience and passion for the game makes her an invaluable asset to the organization's mission.

DeVondre Henry

Board Member

Bio

DeVondre is a dedicated young entrepreneur who earned his degree from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 2018. His profound commitment to basketball and community service stems from the challenges he encountered while striving for his professional basketball aspirations.

His journey in basketball commenced during adolescence in Hampton, Virginia, where he played for the Hampton Hoyas under the mentorship of Boo Williams in the AAU circuit. This experience not only exposed him to high-level competition but also provided invaluable lessons in work ethic, fostered enduring friendships, and showcased the unifying power of AAU basketball within the Hampton community.

Despite facing personal setbacks and injuries that hindered his aspirations for an elevated basketball career, DeVondre remains resilient and optimistic. Redirecting his focus from personal pursuits to assisting others in realizing their dreams, he has emerged as a leader committed not only to basketball and community engagement but also to various business ventures, notably in real estate transactions across the Mid-Atlantic Region. His unwavering belief in abundance and the boundless potential achieved through dedication, perseverance, faith, and communal support defines his approach to life and endeavors.