813 Elite Track & Field has concluded its inaugural season with extraordinary achievements, earning 79 national titles and securing collegiate scholarships for 20 athletes while establishing itself as a premier youth sports program focused on comprehensive athlete development. The Tampa-based club's immediate success highlights the effectiveness of its "total athlete" philosophy that prioritizes mental, physical, and emotional growth alongside athletic performance.
The program's competitive accomplishments include 4 AAU National Champion titles, 1 New Balance National Champion title, and 64 AAU All-American titles, along with additional All-American recognitions from USATF, Nike, and Adidas competitions. The club was named 2025 AAU Zone B Club of the Year among more than 1,000 teams nationwide and finished as AAU Club Championship National Runner-Up out of more than 250 competing teams. These results demonstrate the program's ability to compete at the highest levels of youth track and field despite being in its first operational year.
Co-founders Steven "Coach G" Gamble and LaKeisha "Coach K" Gamble emphasize that their mission extends beyond athletic achievements. "These milestones are about more than medals," stated Coach Gamble. "They reflect the heart, grit, and unity of our athletes and families. From day one, our mission has been clear: to open doors, instill confidence, and prepare young people for success in every arena of life." The program's foundation built on military veteran leadership and USATF Certified coaching expertise has created a environment where athletic development serves as a vehicle for broader personal growth.
The significance of 813 Elite's success extends beyond the track, as evidenced by the 20 collegiate scholarships awarded to program participants. This achievement underscores the program's effectiveness in preparing student-athletes for academic and athletic opportunities at the collegiate level. The club's philosophy centers on building resilience, discipline, and lifelong wellness, with coaches and parents collaborating to create a support system where every training session and competition contributes to long-term development. Additional information about the program's approach and achievements can be found at https://www.813elitetf.com.
As youth sports programs increasingly face scrutiny regarding their impact on young athletes' overall development, 813 Elite's model demonstrates how athletic excellence can be achieved alongside character building and academic preparation. The program's immediate national recognition and scholarship outcomes provide a template for other youth sports organizations seeking to balance competitive success with holistic athlete development. With its established foundation and proven results, 813 Elite is positioned to continue influencing youth sports programming while maintaining its commitment to family-first values and comprehensive athlete preparation.
