Michael Willis
Position: Athletic Director
School: Centennial Academy Charter School
School District: Centennial Academy Charter School
City, State: Atlanta, GA
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Michael Willis was nominated by Rodney Keyes, a member of the community.
On Friday evening, December 23, 2022, the Atlanta Hawks recognized their nominee for the Jr. NBA Coach of The Year, Mr. Willis, for impacting youth athletics in Atlanta. Mr. Willis is currently the head coach and athletic director at Centennial Academy Charter School. This conversion charter school educates scholars from kindergarten through eighth grade and has the highest homeless population in Atlanta. In February 2022, Mr. Willis led the boys' basketball team at Centennial Academy Charter School to their first championship in their first season in the Atlanta Public Schools Middle School Basketball League. Coach Willis and his team overcame numerous barriers to win the championship, including not having a school basketball court on campus! He instilled confidence and belief in his students that they could overcome any obstacle in their lives to experience success and victory. It's an incredible story!
Coach Willis said, "I am humbled to be recognized as the 2022 Atlanta Hawks Junior Basketball Coach of The Year. It feels great to be acknowledged for doing the work I am passionate about. For me, coaching is about more than teaching young men the art and science of the game of basketball. It is equally important for me to teach student-athletes about everything that makes young men good people. Instilling teamwork and good character is key, and as a fan and season ticket holder of the Atlanta Hawks, I am forever grateful for them recognizing me with this honor."
"It is with great pleasure that I nominate Coach Michael Willis for National Life Group's 2022 LifeChanger of The Year program," said Keyes. "His school leadership, students, parents, Atlanta community, and family have recognized his significant impact on the community and the next generation of leaders."
Coach Willis is an amazing person and better yet a better coach he will put a smile on your face when you frown he turns it upside down. Every time I see him in the hallway I will say hi and he will say it back he will make you laugh a lot and if you're doing something wrong he will tell you what to work on. And people love him so much for what he does for the school he is always there for everything even a little pep talk he is also there to build you up if you are feeling down he will fix that and make you smile to make you feel better that is why I think Coach Willis deserves this position.
Coach Willis is amazing human being he the best person ever he may do yell and fuss at us but he still wants the best for us he believe in something we don't i think we should believe he's truly the best if i had to describe him with just one word it will be helpful
you is a good coach and you wer my coach last year and you said if you can you can do it and hold on to that and i can do inting now you said you work with kobe and the hawks and kd and and i feel you michael you would best perfect coach for me and for my day biy love you
You will do so well and don't give up on helping you help the school so much that we thank you for helping us and this is from mr. george class hopefully you win because we love you and we thank you. So how we can help is by writing good comments for you so if you lose it's okay almost everyone loses like me i lost my baseball game the prize was money who ever won would of got 10,000 and my team lost i'ed cried but it's okay like my mom said we all lose so you see every thing is not about money it's about love and family so I hope you do so well.
Coach Willis is the best basketball coach ever. Coach Willis is the nice men ever. He is so nice to scholars.HE is helpful.He is brave. He is a leader to me. HE is grateful to me. HE is the best coach that you can ever had. He is so strong. And us hero we believing hem. Centennial Academy love you coach Willis.
coach willis is a great coach he lead our school team to the champpionship and has inspired me and others by his. Determination to keep going after someing happens to him or his team. And how he pushs his players to be the best at what they do and he is also very kind to the staff and scholars at our school also he has. Formed meny relationships with teachers staff at our school and he has a big inpack on our school.
Coach Willis has always helped his students and he shows that he cares about all of us if i'm mad or sad he makes feel better and he is the best basketball ball coach he makes sure that his students are ready to play . Also he will make the best candidate for this position he worked so hard for this position and he is great to all teachers and scholars He always shows respect to this school as long as he stays with us we all be okay and safe when he teaches his students their on fire when they are playing on the floor . Even though he might not win he will always be a super hero to all of us some people may not know him in this school but when they get to know him they will see that he is the best
Coach Willis is an amazing person. He inspires his school and his players. He is always looking for a way to help others and is very kind to all the staff here at Centennial. Coach Willis goes above and beyond his duties to help where he is needed. He is for sure a great candidate and I believe that he serves his community each day. Coach and I have also built a trust that is meaningful and I can depend ob=n him if I need him. I truly appreciate his efforts he puts into our school. I am proud to work with Coach Willis.
hi this is for you thank you for taking us to the national. you are a champion!you took our basket team to every single place! you make sure our school is proud and we are! even if you lose or win you will always be champion.
Coach Willis you have been a amazing part of the centennial academy crew you went so far on this school adventure you made it so far in the basketball league i was looking at you in the pep rally you were so amazing you even got a prize and the hole time i was watching you i thought maybe i can start playing basketball and that's when it hit me i am going to try even if i don't make it i will try to make it into the basketball league you you Coach Willis you are the one to lift me off of the ground and start my career i am getting better at basketball thank you coach for everything.
Dear Coach Willis you have a big heart and a big basketball heart. You always joke with me you gave me courage and strength by your words.You always like to say hi when I'm walking in the cafeteria.You also like to help me and everyone in the school.When I met you I didn't know you very.Once I knew more about you I started to like you.Also you were nice to me when I first met you.I was nice to you when met me.This how I met and how you have a big heart.
Coach Willis is a trustworthy coach let's his players have fun and play the game that they play.
Coach willis is an amazing person who help people during the day and I love it cause it help use and are
cummunity. Also change kids life by teaching children how to dribble,shoot and steal the ball.Thanks for the good work
Mr Willis is the best he help people to get their dream of a basketball play
coach willis is the best basketball coach and i bet the kids on his team appreciate it and like they said we have to make a comment about when he helped us with something so there was this time when is fell down and he picked me up and made me stand up and he said open your eyes three times and i woke back up and when i needed help with my homework he helped me out then when i went to my teacher Ms.Epps and gave my homework to her and another thing is when i see him he always gives me a fist bump or a high five and this was all is first grade so i appreciate him for doing all that stuff for me and other students.
Coach Willis is a good coach and helps his students when they don't or when they do he comes to the rescue.We had a awesome prep rally and led the team to win a championship on the first year.He is a very good coach and is very active.And he deserves this position.
Coach willis is a good man he helps other scholors do their work when they need it he will give you a gift like some candy when we are doing good in school.
Better yet…For This Honor!!!
I feel Michael would be the perfect candidate for this position!!! Without a doubt!!!
Well deserved hard nose father figure type of coach. Loves the game and the people that are passionate about the game.
"Coach" Michael Willis is a very integral part of our community. Coach Willis is a mentor to the scholars of Centennial Academy and the youth of the Atlanta area. He is always willing to listen, help, and advise anyone who comes his way. I recently had the opportunity to meet some members of a team and school that Willis was a part of over 10 years ago. Many of these young men and women are now positively impacting their communities in various ways. They all spoke about how Coach Willis was a key figure in their life development. Coach Willis is definitely deserving of this honor!
Coach Willis is extremely dedicated to the development & success of our students.
He respects his students and in turn gains their respect
I couldn't think of a more deserving educator
Great basketball coach and motivator for scholars. He is a liaison between the school and the neighborhood, which creates a cohesive team relationship. His spirit shines during the day, and he always has time to give to others. I am thankful to know him not only as a colleague, but also a friend!
Coach Willis is a hard working and very determined athletic director and basketball coach. He took a small, lazy team and led them all the way to the APS championship. He’s doing the same this year with a whole new set of players in a totally different league. Keep up the good work, Coach!
For his continued and unwavering support for each child’s educational cability, Coach Michael Willis is most deserving of this award. Michael has gone above and beyond the call of Coach and mentor to maximize the students ability to become productive citizens of society. Coach genuinely cares for each student’s individual need, and go beyond the call to be sure they are met.
He is a amazing coach and he also inspires his players.He was a champion so he can be another.
Coach Willis is a great role model for centennial. He works hard every day to make sure that we are successful. Vote for Coach Willis he won’t let you down.
He sometimes is to much but funny at the same time.
Coach Willis is a very good coach. He makes sure people are safe when they are walking in the hallways
He is nice,respectful, and a great person
Mr. Willis is a great influence.
He encourages scholars to be their best.
He is also very dependable.
He is very nice.He’s always ongoing and fun.He is also a good coach.
He is very nice , he always check up on me everyday . He is kind and very helpful .
Coach W has always been a father figure to youth, on and off the court. His influence will go farther than he can imagine as it travels through players and staff. Congrats Coach and the best of luck going forward.
Coach Willis is thoughtful and he thinks the best for me. He is funny and makes me laugh and it makes my day. Coach Willis makes sure I am making the right decisions and makes sure I don’t get into trouble. Coach is one of the best staff members and coaches here. If coach wasn’t here I don’t think I would be me anymore.
Coach Willis is a very good role model, he help me with sports, great spokesperson, he is very encouraging, he pushes me to my limit to be my best, and help me with my school work, In conclusion, he is a very great individual.
Coach Willis is always positive and bright every day.coach Willis can make someone happy just by talking to them.If I’m down just talking to Coach Willis can boost my mood.
If anyone is worthy of this recognition, it is Coach M.Willis.
Coaches are more than sports facilitators. Coaches indirectly become teachers, counselors, extended family, life coaches and friends. All of these things are true of Coach Willis! His tireless dedication to serve his students is evident in everything that he does, inside and outside of the classroom, and on and off of the basketball court. Coach Willis believes in the fundamentals, which transcends in the way that he teaches his students. He leads by example in his work ethic, attitude, and willingness to serve. He is an asset to any organization, within any community!
Coach Willis was an awesome coach & mentor to many of the young men in his basketball team & community! He deserves this award!!
My coach Willis was my son’s basketball coach in high school. He was a great coach and mentor to the boys during that time and remained a close family friend. He deserves to be the awardee of The life changer of the year because he changed so many of the young men that came from various challenges at home & backgrounds by helpping them become great young men and high school graduates that went on to do great things …we fully support Coach Willis in this endeavor!!
Michael Willis is one of the hardest working and the most determined and dedicated person I know. I have seen how his love of basketball, which was instilled in him at an early age, helped guide him into his field of dreams. With the guidance and upbringing he received from family members and local sports heroes in his hometown of Roanoke, VA, I think it was inevitable that he would be inspired to want to help young boys receive the same guidance Michael experienced. His accomplishments have made his family, friends, and colleagues very proud of him. Great Job Coach Willis!
Coach Willis is an extremely helpful gentleman. He does his best to make sure everyone around him is benefiting in a positive way. Coach Willis will lend a helpful hand to anybody in need no matter the person. Coach Willis tells his testimony to all young learners to let them know if you set your mind to it you will achieve the goal you have set. I think Coach Willis is a great candidate and should be chosen.
Coach Willis is extremely helpful in several different avenues. I’ve witnessed him as a coach, mediator, teacher, and role model to several of the scholars at Centennial Academy. He is someone who continues to go to lengths to better the lives of the people he interacts with by continually demanding that the students whose lives he enters meet and surpass his expectations.
Coach Willis is an awesome person! He is always and willing to create a positive space for all students. He is an awesome coach, I know because he mentored my younger brothers and coached my older brother. Him coaching has made my brother way better at basketball and he is more positive. He keeps Centennial Academy on their toes when it comes to sports. He led us to victory last year, and we were on the news! Overall Coach Willis is a positive and great coach and person!
Coach Willis is a very kind person and always makes sure that you are having a good day.with the encouragement that he gives us students it gives us strength.if you need him he is always there for you when you need him.
Coach Willis is a positive and powerful influence on us students
AS A COACH AND A TEACHER
Coach Willis has always been someone I can count on and looked up to. He has always been nice to me ever since I was a little girl. Coach Willis is someone you can count on if you ever need to talk, he’s always there and listening. Anytime I see him in the hallway he always speaks, and he also always puts a smile on my face while we talk. If you ever need a good laugh you can always go to coach Willis and he’ll make sure to do that. Lastly Coach Willis is always determined and everything he does he wants to do it the best that he can, he also never gives up no matter the situation, that is why I love Coach Willis and feel like he should be picked.
I started Centennial Academy last year. Every since I been here Coach Willis has been a nice , caring , funny , energetic , and nice person. Coach Willis is also the basketball coach for my school. He shows good enthusiasm with them, all his players love him. He shows a great example of a basketball coach. Let’s not forget he mentors for the school. Coach Willis is very good with children and he scares about their education. In conclusion, Coach Willis is a all-around great person.
Coach Willis is very kind, he is also a great coach he always motivates people, you can also count on him if you need to talk, he’s always there to listen. I’ve known Coach Willis since a was a little girl and ever since he has always found a way to put a smile on my face. He will also give u a good laugh with his jokes. Coach Willis is also very determined, if he does something he wants to do it right.
Coach Willis is a living example of a servant leader. He is selfless when it comes to dedicating his time to youth and putting them on a path to success. Continue to be a blessing to all you encounter!
It has been my honor to share the time and space in Gods universe with Michael Willis. What a powerful man he is to walk the streets of America making change in the life of others. I remember the many days of his mentorship and influence over the community as he led us into subject matters of conflict resolution, the development of manhood and removing fear to meet and overcome all obstacles in our path. Thank you Coach Willis for being a tool that God would use to heal the Community. Petersburg Va. and Virginia State University could really use your energy again!
Coach Willis has always been a person that I respected and admired. From the time we met, he showed to be nothing less than an upstanding man who mentored and set an example of what a real man should look like. The things that he is accomplishing now are a testament to the lifetime of dedicated hard work he has poured into the community. He never once has asked for credit or recognition over the many years he has done this. But, I am glad to see him get his flowers as they are well deserved! Congratulations on all your success, Coach. Sincerely appreciate all you have represented in my life and the lives of all the players you have come in contact with. I wish you much continued success as you continue your journey!
So proud of you and all your accomplishments. Keep up the good work. We need male leaders like you!
Coach Willis is the true definition of a great role model for the youth on and off the court. Academics and Sports work hand in hand. The students find comfort in Coach because he knows how to be relatable with this generation. He knows how to reach them where needed. My son is counting down the days where he can become apart of Coach Willis Athletics program. We appreciate his presence throughout the school and if I had to describe him with one word it would be Passionate.
Congrats Mike,
Thank you for your service to the community!!!
Congrats Mike,
Thank you for your service to the community!!!
Coach Willis believes in helping his boys reach their full potential. He took the the time to reach out to me( I run the boys and girls club down the street from the school) so that his boys could practice on a full court. Understanding the importance of practicing he walked the boys down twice a week and we have continued that partnership this basketball season.
Congrats, your work will always be remembered. You worked hard and pushed us to work hard and because of that we won the championship. ??
Coach Willis is a great role model for the youth! Not only is he pushing these kids on the court but off the court as well. He is setting an example, for these kids to show them that no matter the circumstances they can achieve their goals through hard work and perseverance! He is more than deserving of this award.He is a leader, and Cares!
I first meet Coach when he was coaching my baby brother. Over the years Coach has become apart of our family as we have shared all the wins and losses life has thrown our way. I have watched him grow and blossom into not only a great coach but an outstanding leader. Congratulations Coach Willys as Kennedy would say. 20.
Coach Michael Willis is a a Man of Integrity & Honor. He’s a great Leader, Teacher, Coach, Friend, & Mentor! Though we live in another state, he actually calls to check on my son as a student first and also as an athlete. He always listens, guides, shares ideas and gives suggestions but most importantly HE CARES!!!!
I met Michael Willis in 2008 when he was the coach of my son’s High School basketball team. Coach Willis not only coached the team but served as a mentor. I watched him bond with the young men and show them he cared about them being successful away from the basketball court. I’m not surprised that he’s experiencing success leading young men because of his genuine caring attitude and overall desire to help young people succeed. I wish him the best going forward and know that his success will translate into the young people he comes in contact with along the way achieving their goals. I think he deserves this honor because of the energy and time he has dedicated to our youth over the years.
Coach Willis is a superior motivator, mentor, and leader. Proof is in his recognition from the Atlanta Hawks, his area championship last season, his resume, etc. As a college student, he studied the NCAA Handbook, which is no small feat! Has been a blessing to know as a colleague and friend for over 30+ years. First Class Individual!
-Eric Rogers
7CitiesProAM
Norfolk, VA
Congratulations, Coach! I appreciate you during my son what coaches should be. You were caring, passionate and stern when necessary. Your dedication to the game took a team, with most of the players having little to no experience, to win a championship. That was an Epic season and will be hard to top. Continue to do an outstanding job shaping young athletes. You Deserve It!!
Congratulations Coach! Your commitment to Centennial is unmatched!
I've has the opportunity to know Michael as a father, teacher, coach and a friend. He has excelled in each area. Michael was my son's high school basketball coach. He and his team represented the school in a positive and professional manner all the time. They still owns the school record for most wins! As a teacher his students excelled also as he had high standards for the classroom and always had their best interest in mind as he prepared them for life. Fatherhood was his main focus as I watched him LOVE on his Daughter. I consider Michael as a dear friend and is deserving of such a honor as this.
He is a great coach and is passionate about what he does! Keep up the good work!
Coach Willis is an amazing mentor and coach to his athlete scholars.
Mike always been a great mentor to his athletes. He treated them as if they were his own children. I am very proud of him and it is an honor to be his friend.
Continue to pray, it is NO secret what GOD can do. I am very proud of your accomplishments.
Proud of you teammate! Keep up the great work! You always been a leader!
Coach Willis was my basketball coach in my 8th grade year. He found me and "told" me I was going to play. I had no idea the passion I had for basketball until he took time, patience and pride in me and my abilities. Our team won the District's Championship and I'm still bragging about that. Coach Willis wasn't just my coach in 8th grade as he's still here for me anytime I need him.
Great coach, very motivational and inspirations. Does his due diligence in pushing the youth forward and standing behind his players on and off the court.
You are a GREAT coach. You set clear expectations and hold your athletes to the highest standard. Your athletes are able to tap into their potential because of leadership and dedication to their success! Keep up the great work!
Mike your journey has been amazing and your passion for working with and motivating the youth entrusted to you has been nothing short of a blessing to them! You are a great role model and a mentor at a time when your commitment to elevating the undeserved kids needing this type of involvement is key to their development! Thanks for taking the torch of leadership and continuing to instill positivity in all the lives you are involved with! You are a winner and we are in your corner! Stay blessed!
Mike has always been an inspiration to those young men that he has coached. But to remember Mike in College he was always a hard worker and always gave a helping hand. It has been a privilege to work and communicate with him. He is a greater advisor to his peers who have been in similar situations that he has gone through. I’m glad to know him and to be able to call him a friend.
I have known Mike since we were kids! He is a genuine person and outstanding roll model. We are all really proud to call him our friend. He is making such a positive difference in these young peoples lives! Anyone who has had a coach, a teacher, an adult they can look up to knows how much that can affect the rest of your life. Keep up the great work!
Congratulations Coach! Your leadership, skill set, and dedication have impacted our scholars tremendously. Your presence alone speaks volumes within our community. Continue to be that word of inspiration for our young heroes. Congratulations again and best wishes!
Congratulations Coach Willis! You have given Centennial and its scholars one hundred percent since day one. What you did for the school and the scholars was phenomenal!
Congratulations Coach. You deserve everything you have been nominated for and received. You been leading by example since I was a teenager at POB in 2008/2009. You always cared about us; not only as athletes but as young developing men. I couldn't be more proud of all the blessings coming your way. Congrats on your nominations.
Coach Willis embodies what it means to be a Centennial HERO. He is truly dedicated to the school and community! Congratulations.
Congratulations Coach!! A true testament that hard work truly pays off! Thank you for being a great leader & role model to our scholars, and for expecting excellence from each one.
Coach Willis is the epitome of a leader and truly embodies what it means to serve through his leadership. He is dedicated and committed to excellence surrounding sports and instills that love and commitment into our students.
Thank you for your hard work and dedication to working with our scholars. You bring out the best in scholars. You are a GREAT coach.
Coach Willis is a great example of how persistence pays off rather than giving up on a practice area for his school he explored other options and worked out a doable solution. What Michael is doing for the youth he serves makes all of us that watched him grow up very proud. He will continue to make a huge difference in the lives of numerous young people.
Coach Willis is great coach, colleague, and friend!! It is inspiring to see his good work and how much that means for students and Centennial Academy! You are a hero and a legend sir!
CONGRATULATIONS COACH WILLIS!
What you did for our basketball team and school was OUTSTANDING!
You brought out the BEST in those scholars and sent them on their way with something to be PROUD of.
AGAIN. CONGRATULATIONS!
A good coach can change the game, but a great coach changes lives! Coach Willis is a great coach who has a legacy of positively changing many lives, on and off the court! Congratulations on all your success, Coach! I am proud of you!
It is truly an honor to work with Coach Willis. The hard work and dedication he shows towards the scholars is remarkable. The students enjoy when he stops by the classroom to gives them inspirational quotes to motivate them beyond the classroom. He constantly impacts the students in positive ways every hour, minute and second of the day. I am honored to work with him at Centennial Academy Charter.
Since his arrival, Coach Willis has been a great asset to the Centennial Athletic Department. He has demonstrated our Core Value of Excellence and helped bridge the gap between our school and the community. Keep up the great work, Coach Willis!
Congratulations Coach Willis on your nomination! We have reveled in the school pride you have brought to Centennial. Your commitment and dedication to our scholar athletes and the Centennial community is truly appreciated.
Heroes Today Legends Tomorrow!
In my short time knowing Coach Willis, he has shown to be a genuine person who truly cares about the success of his students, on and off the court! It’s evident that he is making an impact in the lives of the students he comes across and is the true definition of a Life Changer!
With great pleasure, I share with your team what makes Coach Willis a fantastic man, and a great role model for not only the kids at Centennial Academy but kids everywhere. It has been said that there aren't enough positive role models for our youth in the Black community. They haven't met Coach Willis. Coach Willis inspires these children, invests time with them, and listens to them when many don't. His leadership skills are phenomenal, he has the ability to really reach our children. He doesn't do with a play upon words, his transparency, humility, and his consistency reach across all ages and makes everyone feel equally important. He's tireless in his efforts to get the job done and make it happen. These are just other reasons why Coach Willis is such a valued team member of our school and the community. I strongly believe that he would make an excellent recipient of the National Life Group's 2022 LifeChanger of The Year.
Sending a huge well deserved congratulations to Coach Willis!!! I have had the pleasure of attending all of the Centennial basketball games and watching the passion and commitment that Coach Willis has for his team is amazing! Well deserved recognition!
In my short time knowing Coach Willis, he has shown to be a genuine person who truly cares about the success of his students, on and off the court! It’s evident that he is making an impact in the lives of the students he comes across and is the true definition of a Life Changer!
Coach Willis is a great individual! He goes above and beyond for his students and community. He has a great work ethic and commitment to excellence. He always shows a positive attitude and is willing to help others. He continues to inspire and make a positive impact on our youth and community. Coach Willis is a true winner! Congratulations Coach!!!
Coach Willis is a true representation of a Centennial HERO. He is very dedicated to the school and his scholars. Congratulations and Good Luck!
A value based servant leader who understands, relates to and is able to positively influence young people academically, athletically putting their goals and objectives in the proper perspective. Simply stated, Michael is the definition of being a life changer.
Coach Willis is an amazing coach and an even more phenomenal man. He kept me motivated in my younger years during a time in my life when I was experiencing trials and tribulations that he probably never knew of. I just want to say thanks coach and a huge congrats from me! Your hard work will not go unnoticed and you deserve all of the accolades coming your way! Peace and love!!!
Coach Willis was a godsend for my son at Centennial Academy. He helped bring my very lowkey, shy, unsure of himself and his potentials out of his shell. Coach Willis took the time to mold, train and discipline his players with tough love. It was amazing seeing how these young men listened and looked up to him. Especially my son. I had no idea of who my son could be until he started playing under Coach Willis. He didn't just coach them in basketball but for every aspect of their lives. I loved the way he cared about their academics and made them care about their appearance. I am forever grateful to him. I can't wait until my 2 younger sons are old enough to go under his wing as well! "Coach of a Lifetime" is a description that Coach Willis definitely earned. The guy is made for this!
Congratulations coach . I am one of his old players and I will say he is an awesome coach .
Coach Michael Willis is truly one of the most outstanding and genuine role models I’ve ever come across during my days of a student athlete. Always seeing the best in each individual, and always willing to go the extra mile to see everyone succeed. He’s such an inspiration to many of us ex players, and I couldn’t think of anyone who’s truly more deserving of such an award.
Michael Willis has been impacting the Centennial Academy community and the surrounding area in a way so much so that he has been nominated as the current Atlanta Hawks - JR. NBA Coach of the Year.
Still working and impacting the youth as we speak! Much love.
Coach Willis is an excellent Coach.I’m one of his current players and he’s been nothing but kind to me. It’s more than coaching to him.
Congratulations coach Willis, I think he is the nicest guy you’ll ever meet??, he is a amazing coach and he wants the best for all of us he might yell or fuss at you but he still wants the best for you, if he believes in something he will do his best to put his all into it, as a former player I believe that he is truly the best and definitely deserves this award, congratulations coach Willis.
Coach Michael Willis is truly one of the most outstanding and genuine role models I’ve ever come across during my days of a student athlete. Always seeing the best in each individual, and always willing to go the extra mile to see everyone succeed. He’s such an inspiration to many of us ex players, and I couldn’t think of anyone who’s truly more deserving of such an award.
There is nothing you can say bad about. Mr. Micheal Willis. He is an awesome ma. His parents did a great job raising him. He is showing the next generation what it's about. I just love his spirit when is comes to the sport of basketball. Love what you are doing don't stop. Keep spreading the love.
Coach Michael Willis is truly a one of a kind person. He's got a heart for helping kids reach for max potential and getting them to achieve their best, while learning lessons they will carry forever. No-one more deserving of such an award than him. We've had him on our show several time ls because we are inspired by his drive to leave the world a better place than he found it.
Coach Willis is an amazing person and coach! He is a role model for our scholars and athletes! Congratulations Coach. It is an honor to work alongside you!
Congratulations Coach Willis!! As a parent of a former scholar, please know that we are so proud of the work you’ve done with our kids and we stand behind you all the way. You are definitely, our HERO!!!
Coach Willis is one of the most dedicated individuals I've had the pleasure of working beside. He believes in scholars first and is ready to go above and beyond to ensure that the programs he leads are top-notch. We are so blessed to have Coach Willis at Centennial and are proud of his accomplishments.
Not only is Coach Willis a phenomenal coach, he is encouraging to the students. He always presents with an upbeat, positive attitude. He greets students with compliments, and is able to offer constructive criticism when needed. Congratulations Coach!
Congratulations Coach Willis on this nomination. We are proud that you are a Centennial Academy HERO. Your commitment to to our scholars and the Centennial Community is commendable. Thank you for all that you do! #CentennialStrong
Congratulations Coach Willis!
I sincerely appreciate everything you do for our Centennial Heroes! Thank you for your commitment to our Athletic Department and your commitment to our scholars at Centennial Place Apartments! Good luck!!
Coach Willis gives all that he is to this program, Centennial and the community. You can very well see that this is his passion. This is not what he does; this is who he is.
Coach Willis is definitely deserving of this honor. He is committed to the young people in our school and community. He is dedicated to teaching self-discipline and hard work and insists on excellence from his young athletes.
Coach Willis is positive, dedicated, helpful a volunteer and a mentor. He is making a difference in the lives of many of our youth today. Congratulations on this honor Coach Willis!
Coach Willis is a true example of a HERO. I have seen him work with the most challenging scholars with ease and support, encouraging them to keep trying. Coach Willis develops relationships with all of the scholars and it is evident by the excitement seen on their faces when he greets them. Coach Willis spends time learning the family history of the scholars he coaches in order to build personal rapports with each of them. Congratulations Coach Willis! You are Centennial’s HERO of the Year!
Coach Micheal Willis is an amazing educator, coach, and colleague! The scholars of Centennial Academy look to him for guidance and laughter daily. He is always ready to support all school initiatives and goes above and beyond the required duties to ensure ALL scholars are successful! He is truly changing the lives of our scholars as we are "Heroes today, legends tomorrow"!
Congratulations! Michael on your nomination. You are a great mentor, coach and leader that is truly deserving of this award .
Congratulations Michael Willis. It is certainly amazing to see a native from Roanoke Virginia doing wonderful things.
Coach Willis is definitely deserving of this recognition! We need more like him to help affect positive change in the community. Keep up the great work!!
Congrats Coach Willy!!! You deserve this more than anyone I know! Your hard work, work ethic, and pure dedication to the game of bball and your players is the reason why I believe you should receive this award! Congrats again!
Rica
Coach Michael does a phenomenal job with his team????
Willis, as he was known by most of us, was the coach who was the epitome of a motto I use which is, "Bigger Than Ball." He was this for me as a player and I have watched him become a true example of this over the years for the many student-athletes and communities he has served. He truly cares about not just the game, but he uses the game to influence the lives of the youth he encounters. I am honored to even talk about this coach, who by his actions, i also call family.
Congratulations Coach Willis!! As a school community, please know that we are so proud of the work you’ve done in this community and we stand behind you all the way. You are definitely, our HERO!!!
Coach Willis is a giver. He’s a teacher a coach that’s a special person he gives his time to teach and mold kids into being young adults.
Michael has always had a passion for basketball since a young age. That passion he had back then has remained with him as a coach, teacher, athletic director, mentor and at times a parent to his athletes. Michael is a more than deserving candidate for this award.
It was a honor to play under Coach Michael Willis at Virginia State University! Words can’t even explain how much he played a major role in my life as a coach and as a role model. Such a great human being. He got my vote! ???
Mr. Michael Willis aka Coach Willis, is a awesome mentor and example for these young men. I’ve know him since middle school, as a young teen himself he was a person of good character and very funny. He kept us laughing. He has exemplified great attitude and most importantly positivity. He definitely deserves all the accolades he received thus far. He is the right candidate for this award. This is coming from someone whose known him for over 35 years.
Coach Willis really enjoys what he does and the kids truly benefit. His leadership as the athletic director has proven that he is a great asset to the school. He takes great pride in his work and pushing scholars beyond their limit.
This is awesome! I had the pleasure of working with coach Willis for a year at Centennial as his assistant coach. The time, dedication and love he has for these young men is paramount. What a great story. Congratulations coach!!
Michael Willis is one of the hardest working educators that I have ever known. He has an unmatched passion for kids and their overall their development. Moreover, Michael is a pillar in his community where he often leads community that help with the youth and the elders in the community. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award than Michael Willis!
I've known Michael for over 20 years. From the first time that I met him as an assistant basketball coach at a rival school, he's always shown a compassion to help anyone in need. He's an example of good things happening to good people.
Congratulations Coach Willis!!! So proud of you. Keep up the great work you're doing with the Centennial Community.
I have known Coach Willis for 18 years. He coached with the Team Georgia Elite AAU program. He has always had a passion for coaching and most Importantly mentoring his players and teaching them life skills. I have seen him coaching teams that were not very skilled but he made them believe in themselves and pull out a win.
Coach Willis will go to bat for his players and assist their families in their time of need.
He had an opportunity to coach my son and has remained friends with him and has mentored and counseled him numerous times.
I know he has changed lives. It is a honor and pleasure to know him.
An amazing coach!! Keep striving and inspiring children!
Congratulations to my son who has done such an amazing job with his career.God has blessed you with this wonderful gift and you have not let Him down.I am so proud to call you my son and if your Dad were still on this earth he without a doubt would feel the same.Love you Michael “Willie”. You
Coach Willis is more than just a coach. He makes a positive impact in his community by volunteering. He volunteers at in the community where many of his students and athletes reside. He has been influential in their lives for the five years. He has been involved with delivering and providing meals to families. He has assisted in coordinating activities for the youth such “fun days”, which include face painting, food, music and etc. This past Christmas he was Santa Clause for the kids to take pictures with, he is very involved with his community.
Congratulations! Great coach and mentor!
Michael Willis is a great coach, leader and human being. He is very caring, dedicated and driven. I am very proud of and inspired by the impact he has made on his students on and off the court. He is very well deserving of this award.
Coach Willis is a great mentor for the scholars at our school. He gives his all to his job as coach, and he supports all of the scholar athletes not only on the field or court, but academically as well. His community involvement is admirable. He supports our school community, but is also making a difference in the community outside of our school walls. Michael is truly a "life changer" in every aspect.
Mike is an inspirational leader who is dedicated to improving the lives of kids. We go back to the college days at Va State University. The world is a better place because of mikes commitment to our youth and the values that he Instills in them.
Michael And I Are Alumni School Friends. I'm Proud Of The Man He's Became. He's Always Been Heavy On Sports. Seeing Him Lead By Example Is The Key To Him Helping Other's. By Far I Would Love To Be Coached By Him. He's Doing A Superb Job. He's A Great Leader In His Community.
To whom it may concern,
Michael is not only a great coach, athletic director and mentor he is a great person. He was my college teammate and a friend for over 20 years and I am very happy to see all that he has accomplished.
Thank you for nominating him for the National Life Group’s 2022 LifeChanger of the year program!
Best Regards,
Todd Peay
Mr Willis is a great influencer he has no problem with helping others. I’ve known him for a long period of time and he’s always been a very helpful person to everyone.
An example of a true leader on and off the the court. Hats off to you coach for all your accomplishments and those to come. Keep up the great work your doing with these young men you continue to come across.
Congratulations Michael! You have made such great strides in basketball since High School, and now Coach of the year! We are so proud of you cousin!
Your favorite cousin Stacee.
Hey everybody!
Coach Wiilis is such an awesome coach!
He has an amazing personality with so much inspiration towards others!
I am so glad I got to know Coach Willis!
He is a motivating person and makes people laugh and gives them confidence!
We love you Coach!
Daniel
Awesome leader and community supporters. Wishing you great things !
Great Coach. An even better human being!!!
Michael led his team by example! He showed them that hard work and dedication will pay off. The recognition his team has received has been a positive impact on the team and their community!
A very good deserving man a he's a wonderful credit to our society ??
I first met Michael 13 years ago as a rival high school coach. He was changing lives then and obviously has continued to do so ever since. His leadership and love for the young men he coaches and mentors is inspiring and remarkable. I’m proud to call him a true friend.
I had the pleasure working and mentoring Michael during his stay in Charlotte. Michael is that person you wished you had several more just like him. He is hardworking and always looking to improve everyday.The future holds bigger and greater achievements for Michael Willis.
Coach Willis is a great role model for our scholars and the community as well. He always shows up and sets a wonderful example for others to follow. His dedication to helping others and making a positive impact is truly admirable.
Coach Willis embodies the core values of Centennial Academy as an outstanding HERO - in and outside of school!! Our young people are loved, cared for, and believed in under his leadership. Thank you Coach Willis for setting the standard of Excellence and Infinite Possibilities! You are so deserving of the Life Changer of the Year Award!!!
I can’t think of a another person who’s deserving of such an award. I’ve watched Michael help guide young men in their walks of life for over 20+ years now. His dedication to empowering youth through sports is inspirational and has been a major attribute I have always admired about my older cousin. Both on and off the court, Michael conducts himself as a role model who values giving back to the community, uplifting others, and using one’s talent for the betterment of society. He is a servant-leader who seeks to give without expecting anything in return. Coach Willis’ long-standing career of investing in youth is life-changing in of itself and he is extremely deserving of this award.
Coach Willis is & has been 1 of my best friends since high school! I’ve watched him grow into the leader has grown into & it’s been a pleasure seeing his success & growth!
Coach Willis is just a genuine person who enjoys helping people & especially these kids!
As a formal player for Coach Willis I just wanna say he really poured in me the value of perseverance. Some times I used to want to give up but my coach was there telling me you got this ShuMond. He taught me so much not just in basketball, but also in life! Amazing man!
From small town, to big time! Michael Willis is a Star within our StarCity of Roanoke. It is with great pride that we celebrate our brother Coach Willis for this nomination of LifeChanger, because it’s evident that he’s a GameChanger for the community Centennial Academy Charter School. Go all the way Up Coach! Congratulations my brother!
Coach Willis is the epitome of a servant leader! His love for children and the community is evident and it’s his season to receive all the accolades he deserves. He has a heart to win, regardless of the circumstances and is an exemplary figure to all, especially the children he coaches and mentors. Continue to SOAR, Mike!! You’re a great example for us all to follow. May GOD continue to abundantly bless you!
I’m proud of the success that the team,coach and school has achieved!! Keep up the good work and stay driven!
Michael is an outstanding life changer for youth who are dealing with current day challenges. His mentorship and guidance reflects true leadership.
I am extremely proud of my former VSU student Michael Willis. He continues to demonstrate his commitment to excellence and youth development through his caring spirit. He is an outstanding nominee and I hope he is selected. God bless you Mike!
Michael Willis has worked hard to fulfill his dream. Since a little boy basketball was all he knew all he wanted to do it’s he’s passion. You will not find another dedicated person like Michael Willis he’s the man.
Coach Mike is making a difference on and off the court.
Coach Willis builds bridges. He tries to connect with people by building relationships that are meaningful and productive. He has a huge presence on campus and strives to stay connected to the community in which lives and works.
Coach Willis is a true hero.
He leads his team on and off the court, to be the best athletes and young men they can be. He crafts his squad to develop skills and values they will carry with them long after the season ends. Coach Willis has been a life changer to those on his championship team, and will continue to change the lives of those around him.
I’ve had the privilege of observing Coach Willis help shape young people to be the best version of themselves. Coach Willis constantly emphasizes the importance of academic achievement as a prerequisite for all students to pursue their career goals. Coach Willis’ unquestioned commitment to the youth that he serves, makes him very deserving of this award.
Coach Willis is a man of God and a man of the community. He is deserving of this award because he is outstanding with the children, always puts them first, and is an amazing person within the Atlanta Metroplex. On many occasions i have seen him go out of his way to assist students with studies, training, and other necessities that help evolve a young man into becoming a great man. Coach Willis is an exceptional leader and a selfless caregiver of the youth.
I had the pleasure of coaching against Coach Willis for a couple years in Charlotte,NC. I saw personally the difference he made in kids lives. His teams always played hard but with respect for the game and the competitor. I’m proud to call him a friend!
I met Coach Mike as he served as a volunteer coach for a middle school All-Star event. He was dedicated and passionate in working with the young players. Since meeting Mike he continues to show his commitment to helping others and he is definitely an inspiration to the community.
Congratulations to my Brother In Law big ups
I have known Coach Willis since our days at Virginia State University almost 30 years ago. His dedication to the community and students he serves has been life changing for all. His impact on the lives of the homeless students he coaches is inspiring, motivational, caring and transformative. His position as an athletic director for his school (which has the highest homeless population in the city) plays a very important role as he has led his team to win the basketball championship. The impressive part of this championship is the fact that the school does not have a gym for the students to practice in. Coach Willis' life changing impact has increased student attendance, achievement, and their overall health. I commend Coach Willis for his servant leadership and all he does for his school.
You’re the best cousin!! So proud of you!! Congratulations!!
There's no one more deserving. Congratulations on the nomination.
If anyone is deserving of this award, it’s COACH WILLIS!!!
Michael is an outstanding leader! There's no one more deserving of this award!
M.. Willis is hard working man, I know because he was one of my CATS dispatchers team. Good job Mike I knew you will achieve a lot for the coming years.
Best of the Best! Very deserving! Super Proud!
Coach Willis is not just a basketball coach, he is an educator with a heart for young people. When you see him with past or present students, it's always evident that he's great at building great relationships. He has definitely had a positive effect on many students during his career.
Michael Willis is it good candidate for this award his father would have been very proud of him being successful in his craft may God bless him his cousin Troy
Mike is an all around great man. He's a hard working,caring man. That is giving back to his community mentoring and coaching the youth. A true inspiration. Congratulations
I’ve had the opportunity to serve as a supervisor and mentor to Coach Willis since his arrival in Georgia. I am extremely impressed on his maturation as a coach, and as a role model for his young men. We are very fortunate to have this young man serve as a testament on the power of hard work, and the education community at large has an outstanding young man representing the field in a positive manner. Well done Coach!!
Michael continues to contribute in remarkable ways to his community.
I am so proud of my former student, Coach Michael Willis!!! He continues to show by example what is means to be a Leader. He is a passionate Advocate for youth and developing the next generation of Leaders through the platform of Sport and Teamwork while demonstrating what overcoming obstacles looks like while striving for success.
This couldn’t have happened to a better person, Congratulations!! ??????????
Coach Willis has been changing lives and improving the trajectory of the future of our youth for years. He's is truly dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young people and he thrives on this passion. He is beyond deserving.
Michael Willis is one of the most loving and caring people that this world could ever pray for. His kindness and heart is everything that could make life better for our kid's to want greater.. He definitely lives by example of what you can achieve if you do the work!! He has changed many lives of people he knows and one's he may never know.. He is so deserving of this Award!!
Give it up for the Atlanta Hawks Jr NBA Coach of the Year! Coach Willis has a tremendous impact in the community he serves on and off the court. Positive coaching at its finest! #TrueToAtlanta
Someone like Mike that loves to see growth in our youth, it’s hard to call it work for him. Keep up the awesome work Coach Mike!!
He’s a father figure to most and one of the best coaches I ever met. I’m so happy I got to work with this guy. I would recommend him anywhere. When he came to phillip o Berry in 2009 he changed the whole program around, and he’s still turning programs around. You deserve this coach you are one of a kind.
I meet Michael Lamar Willis many years back at a celebration. He was with my oldest son Dj. he came right on in like family and that’s where he has been every since. We call ourselves L1, L2, L3 and he is L4 we all have the middle name Lamar. We are family forever
Very well job done keep the good work up and u'll see more blessings. Love u man
Congratulations! You are definitely well deserving of the honor! May you continue to be blessed as you continue to give back to the community and the teams you coach!
Well deserved! Continued Blessings and Success!
Mr.Willis has been such a great person and overall leader in the community! What he does for the youth is beyond average and we wanna support him in anyway we can.
@MTBTSUPPLYCO
Coach Mike has always been a man devoted to mentoring young men to becoming productive citizens, husbands and fathers. He uses basketball to teach life lessons that builds character, worth ethic, leadership and discipline. I have had the honor and priveledge of coaching against him and watching his teams develop and the love and admiration his players have for him and his program.
Thank you so much for your contribution to your community. Congratulations on your award! Please continue to keep up the great work!
Keep making an impact, Coach!
Congrats on everything coach!!!
Congratulations cousin. Well deserved ?? ??
As one recalls Mr. WILLIS had a huge impact here in the Charlotte area along the same lines winning 2 back to back coach of the year awards here in Charlotte NC at Phillip O"berry high school. As a figure of speech this guy really KNOWS what it takes to turn ?? 's into lemonade! Words are not befitting to express the level of over whelmment for his continued no matter where he goes SUCCES! He is most definitely a cape away modern day much needed leader of our young black male youth. It has been a privilege to share space & time with this proven agent and advocate for change. Continue 'd success to OUR BIG FELLA Wil. Special shout out to him from the fellas @ THE DOWD??????Brey.....again congrats??!!!!
Coach Mike is very deserving. Mike is a family man and he pours knowledge into our youths to be successful not just in sports but in life.
As a retired high school football coach, I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Mike since high school. He’s a big guy, but his heart is even bigger. Always has been a teammate first kind of person, meaning that he puts others before self. Congratulations and keep inspiring our kids!!!
Coach Willis deserves this and more. His passion, zeal and level of engagement in working with the community, specifically the youth, is just priceless.
Former player of Coach Willis 1st year coaching a must I say it was a great year. His passion to win on and off the court is impeccable. I've never had a coach who runs a practice the way he did. No reason not to be prepared for ANY MATCH! Congratulations coach. Love you L2-Lamar Boys
Life changer of the year is a very fitting title for Coach Willis from my personal experience with him. I played for him in 02-03, and him giving me a chance to play on his team gave me the motivation, structure, and opportunity to think about life beyond high school. From that point, I began to realize, prepare, and develop life and basketball skills for the next levels. From then, I have graduated college with 2 degrees and have become a family man with a wife and 3 beautiful daughters. Many of the qualities and achievements I have made in life can all be attributed for the chance Coach Willis gave me and for remaining a key figure in my adult life and I have witnessed him being a similar figure in the countless amounts of players and students he has had in the years since. This title of Life Changer has always been a fitting and I can't think of a person that is more deserving than Coach Michael Willis.
I’ve known Michael since birth. He has always shown compassion and empathy towards others.
His love for children has always been his greatest asset, so it’s no mistake that he is on this path in his life. Coaching is his strength combined with the ability to influence children in a positive way. Congratulations Michael ! I’m proud of you. Love you Auntie
Michael or better know as coach Willis does an amazing job of working with the youth helping to motivate them to achieve greatness. I have witnessed him working with special need children encouraging them as well as helping them to play games. The children love them and he loves them back. I believe that his love for educating the youth as well as his skills as a basketball coach qualifies him for consideration for your life changer of the year award.
Coach Willis is an exceptional mentor, friend, human being and coach! He goes above and beyond to instill core values in the youth as well as his peers to excel at reaching your full potential as an individual and athlete! He truly embodies the definition of a Life Changer!!!
Coach Willis is an excellent role model for the kids of Centennial Academy, the basketball team and his community.
You have the right guy on this platform he is amazing guy I've been knowing him over 21 years an he has always been a great friend an a coach to alot of guy so I'm supporting him as he is being recognized the best Thanks Coach
Coach Willis is a large presence in our scholars lives! We love his patience and kind spirit! Go Coach
