Mission Statement

Leverage elite athletics to provide an environment for young people to explore their identity in Christ, in a way that honors determination, discipline and a desire for life-long learning, by empowering them to strive for excellence EVERY day.

Vision Statement

Epic youth is a movement that empowers youth to raise their standards, realize their potential and strive for bigger and better goals, by helping them to understand who they are in Christ.

Founders

Founder, Justin Anthony, has lived in Elgin his entire life. He attended Elgin Academy where he was a four year starter on the basketball team, in which he received all-area and all-conference honors. Justin worked alongside a former NBA player, as a director for many area basketball camps. He also spent much time serving with Public Action to Deliver Shelter (PADS). After graduation in 2006, Justin attended Illinois Wesleyan University where he played basketball and graduated with a degree in Business Management. Since graduating, Justin has enjoyed working with families to establish sound financial plans and adequate insurance coverage.

Basketball and working with youth have always been passions for Justin. After returning home from college, he began running the Jr. Hilltopper’s feeder program, as a way to give back to his high school and community. He serves as a positive role model for the young boys he coaches and mentors. Following two successful seasons, parents petitioned for more, so Justin formed a travel basketball team, Hoopz U.

Motivated by the eye-opening experience of working with various family dynamics and subpar academic performance, Justin was compelled to provide more for the families of the Fox Valley community. With this inspiration, he founded EPIC Youth.

Co-founder, Josie Wallace has also lived in the Fox Valley area her entire life. While attending Larkin High School, Josie played volleyball, softball, and varsity basketball. After graduation in 2006, she continued her education at Eastern Illinois University receiving a degree in Elementary Education and a degree in Special Education. Currently, Josie teaches special education in the Fox Valley area and coaches high school girl’s basketball.

Volunteerism is a priority for Josie. She has spent much time at the Elgin YWCA tutoring and mentoring the students. She is passionate about helping all children reach their fullest potential and providing them with opportunities to grow. Throughout her college career, Josie spent many hours volunteering with Special Olympics and in group homes in the area and has spent her summers overseas, empowering under-developed communities.